2019 BMW X6 Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2019 BMW X6 and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2019 BMW X6 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 2019 BMW X6 is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the first steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2019 BMW X6?

When diagnosing an oil leak in a 2019 BMW X6, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simplicity and effectiveness. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage, as well as the area where the vehicle is typically parked, to identify any obvious signs of oil accumulation or drips. Next, check the oil levels to determine if there has been a significant drop, which could indicate a leak. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, as these components are often the culprits behind leaks; ensure they are secure and free from oil residue. Additionally, inspect the gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, since these are common areas for leaks to develop. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system to uncover hidden leaks. Should these steps not yield clear results, consulting a qualified mechanic or BMW dealership is advisable for a professional assessment. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the oil leak and take the necessary steps toward resolution.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2019 BMW X6?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2019 BMW X6, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within the engine's components. One of the primary culprits is the degradation of gaskets and seals, which can occur over time due to exposure to heat and engine vibrations. Additionally, the oil pan may develop cracks or holes from regular wear and tear, leading to significant oil loss. Another frequent issue is a faulty oil filter housing gasket, which can allow oil to escape from the engine. Valve cover gasket leaks are also common, as these gaskets can deteriorate and fail, resulting in oil seeping out. Lastly, leaks from the oil cooler can contribute to oil loss, making it essential to inspect this component as well. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to maintaining the engine's health and performance, and regular maintenance checks can help identify potential leaks before they escalate into more serious problems.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2019 BMW X6 to prevent potential engine damage?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2019 BMW X6 is of utmost urgency to prevent severe engine damage. Oil plays a vital role in lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in increased friction and wear on critical parts. If left unattended, the oil levels will drop, which can cause the engine to overheat, potentially warping components or leading to catastrophic engine failure. Moreover, driving with an oil leak can contaminate other engine parts, such as spark plugs and oxygen sensors, leading to performance issues and costly repairs. Ignoring this issue not only jeopardizes the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle but also poses safety risks. Therefore, it is essential to address any signs of an oil leak promptly to ensure the optimal performance and health of your BMW X6.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.