2017 BMW X6 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 BMW X6: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 BMW X6 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 BMW X6 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 BMW X6?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 BMW X6, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional alerts or warning lights, as these can provide further insights into the underlying problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can direct you to the exact issue. After that, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can significantly impact engine performance. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine malfunctions. Finally, examine the wiring and connections in the engine bay for any signs of damage or corrosion, which could indicate electrical issues. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 BMW X6?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 BMW X6, it can be a source of concern for any driver. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light. More complex problems may involve the oxygen sensor, which, if faulty, can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, the catalytic converter plays a vital role in the vehicle's exhaust system, and any inefficiencies or failures here can also activate the check engine light. Other potential culprits include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which affects engine performance, and worn-out spark plugs or ignition coils that can cause misfires. Lastly, a vacuum leak can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to further complications. Addressing these issues promptly is essential not only for maintaining optimal vehicle performance but also for preventing more significant damage down the line. For those who prefer a DIY approach, starting with the simpler checks, like the gas cap and spark plugs, can be a good first step before seeking professional assistance for more complex diagnostics.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 BMW X6?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 BMW X6, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. This warning indicator is not just a minor inconvenience; it can point to problems within the engine or emissions system that, if left unchecked, may lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even safety hazards. Ignoring this light can escalate minor issues into major repairs, resulting in costly fixes and unexpected breakdowns. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to understand that timely diagnostics can save you from further complications. While you may be tempted to delay action, addressing the check engine light promptly can help maintain your vehicle's reliability and performance, ensuring that you enjoy a safe driving experience. Therefore, consider using an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes, which can guide you in troubleshooting the issue before seeking professional help.

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