BMWs are known for powerful performance and advanced features that make driving these high-end cars a real pleasure. However, like other vehicles, your BMW is also prone to issues, and problems like engine oil leaks can adversely affect its performance and even lead to total engine failure. Several factors can trigger engine oil leaks in your BMW, and understanding them will help you fix them. In this article, we will discuss engine oil leaks in your BMW and ways to address them.
4 Factors That Cause Engine Oil Leaks in BMWs
At Fifth Gear Automotive, located near you in Lewisville, Texas, we have observed that specific underlying issues in BMWs can cause engine oil leaks. Moreover, if problems are not addressed promptly, they can lead to engine breakdown and costly repair bills.
1. Bad Valve Cover Gasket
The valve cover gasket in your BMW seals the top of the engine, preventing oil from leaking out as it lubricates the camshafts and valves. Over the years, as your BMW accumulates miles, the valve cover gasket can become brittle or cracked due to exposure to excess heat generated by combustion.
This often leads to engine oil leaks, and you might even notice oil accumulation on the top or sides of the engine, a burning oil smell, or visible oil residue on the valve cover. As the valve cover is made of plastic, the rubber gasket becomes damaged from exposure to extreme heat cycles. One of the best ways to address the problem is to replace the faulty valve cover gasket in your BMW, which will stop the leaks.
2. Failing PCV Valve
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system is one of the most essential parts of your BMW, responsible for relieving pressure build-up in the engine’s crankcase. It also reduces toxic fumes emitted by your high-end car during combustion. Clogged components can cause excess pressure to accumulate in the crankcase, leading to an engine oil leak. Blue or white colored smoke coming out of the exhaust, whistling noises coming from the engine, and/or an increase in the oil consumption level are all signs your BMW’s PCV valve is failing. It needs to be replaced immediately because not only does it cause engine oil leaks, but it also leads to high emissions, which can prevent you from passing SMOG tests and cause trouble. Get in touch with us at Fifth Gear Automotive, located near you in Lewisville, to get your PCV valve replaced by our certified technicians.
3. Faulty Rear Main Seal
The rear main seal in your BMW is located at the rear of the engine, where the crankshaft connects to the transmission. In fact, the rear main seal keeps oil inside the engine where the crankshaft exits. Furthermore, the rear main seal is subjected to high heat, friction, and engine vibrations, which often lead to wear and tear and ultimately cause oil leaks. You might even find oil leaking between the engine block and the transmission bell housing. Getting your rear main seal replaced at the earliest should be your priority; otherwise, the oil leak won’t stop in your BMW.
4. Damaged Oil Pan Gasket
The oil pan gasket seals the oil pan in your BMW to the bottom of the engine and the engine block. Furthermore, the oil pan gasket is continuously exposed to engine oil and engine vibrations. Over the years, as your BMW gains miles, the rubber and cork material harden, crack, and lose their elasticity. This is one of the most noticeable signs of engine oil leaks in cars, because you are likely to find a puddle of oil under your BMW where you parked it. You should contact us at Fifth Gear Automotive to have our team of professional mechanics replace your damaged oil pan gasket.
Get Your BMW Oil Leaks Fixed by Us Today
At Fifth Gear Automotive, with garages 
located in Lewisville, Allen, Argyle, McKinney, Aubrey-Cross Roads, Frisco, and Castle Hills, Texas, we’re the most sought-after independent auto repair facility for European car owners. Our state-of-the-art auto repair garage is equipped with the latest factory-grade tools and equipment to detect and repair engine oil leaks in your BMW. Not sure why your BMW is leaking oil? We’ll solve the mystery in no time! After thorough diagnostics and solutions, we’ll patch the leak, refill the engine oil, and have you back on the road with confidence.
