Where to Look for Oil Leaks in Your BMW
by schearerswpadmin November 22, 2020As the owner of a BMW, you value quality and performance when it comes to your vehicle. Your BMW’s engine is superiorly crafted to deliver at the highest level. It is important your BMW receives the routine care it needs in order to keep it running to that standard.
Regular oil changes are one of the most important ways to care for your BMW. In addition, it is essential that you are able to spot engine oil leaks and have them repaired quickly. Here are some ways to recognize that your BMW has an oil leak, as well as identify regions where leaks may occur.
How to Identify Leaks
There are a few indicators that can alert you to an oil leak in your BMW. Pools of oil may form under your vehicle where you park for long periods of time. You may also notice a burning smell when your vehicle is running or see smoke coming from the engine.
An oil leak can cause your vehicle to overheat, and the oil indicator light might turn on. Several different fluids have the potential to leak out of your vehicle, but engine oil can usually be distinguished from these by the color and consistency. Engine oil is a thick, greasy fluid that is yellow or amber-colored, although it may be darker if it has not been changed recently.
Common Locations for Leaks
Because oil travels through different systems within your vehicle, there are numerous locations where a leak can take place. The most common cause of an oil leak is a seal or valve that has worn out. So, anywhere that there is a connection point is a place where a leak could potentially form.
A few frequent regions for leaks are the oil pan gasket, the valve cover gasket, the alternator bracket seal, the timing cover gasket, and the oil filter housing gasket. The oil pan gasket allows easy access for engine repairs, and usually leaks when oil hasn’t been changed frequently.
Valve cover gaskets can become leaky over time, and are located on the top of the engine. The alternator bracket seal can fail in some models. If this is the case, it is important to have a discussion with a BMW specialist, as its replacement may be more expensive than expected. A leak from the timing cover gasket can often be slow, and therefore more difficult to spot.
Finally, an oil filter housing gasket leak can cause a lot of damage if not addressed, and may even result in engine failure. Other locations can also be the site of oil leaks, but it is likely that one of the aforementioned spots is the culprit.
Why Fixing Oil Leaks is Important
Oil keeps an engine lubricated in order to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. If an oil leak is left unchecked, damage will occur to your engine that may be irreparable. Friction caused by a lack of oil can wear down the gears and valves that are crucial to your BMW’s performance. You may even need to replace the engine entirely.
Oil leaks are much more common in older BMWs that have higher mileage, but preventative care is essential from the start. Changing your oil regularly as well as fixing small leaks before they worsen will ensure that your BMW will continue to provide the high level of performance you desire for years to come.
Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. Will Help
To take the best care of your BMW, make sure you are changing your oil frequently and bringing your vehicle to a specialist as soon as you identify a potential leak. When it comes to the work performed on your BMW, you shouldn’t have to settle.
At Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc., we are proud to be the leading European Automotive Service Center in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. We are conveniently located in Allentown right off of the PA Turnpike, we serve drivers in Allentown, Bethlehem, Macungie, and the surrounding areas.
We are a team of passionate professionals committed to providing the highest standard of care for your BMW. Our mechanics understand the nuances of each model and will work with your car’s unique maintenance plan in order to get it back on the road as fast as possible. We will address your concerns with no surprises, as all work is done with your approval. We look forward to meeting you and showing you the exceptional service that sets us apart.