What Are the Most Common BMW Engine Problems?

We understand the heart drop feeling that happens when you see that check engine light turn on in your euro car. All kinds of questions begin running through your mind. Is this an easy fix? How much will this cost? Your BMW is your pride and joy, and here at Legend Motor Works, we take caring for your euro car and its complexities seriously. Our crew of well-equipped and European car trained technicians can tackle any issue presented. We’ll be sure to get you back on the road feeling confident in your car’s abilities. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing common engine problems we see in BMW models and maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Oil Leaks – Top BMW Engine Issue

Oil leaks are incredibly common in BMWs, especially older models. Some of the typical suspects that cause engine oil leaks include:

1. Valve cover gasket – the gasket that seals the top of the engine can get brittle and crack over time due to heat exposure.
2. Oil filter housing gasket – this gasket can begin leaking and create an oily mess under your hood. 
3. Oil pan gaskets – this gasket is responsible for filling the space between the engine block and the oil pan. As it gets older and worn down, oil begins leaking between the engine block and oil pan. 

Oil leaks not only create messes, but consistent leaking oil over time leads to low oil levels, increased engine wear and tear, and potentially costly engine damage. 

What to do? Once you begin seeing drops of oil, schedule an appointment to address the leak. Regular oil services are a great preventative measure to keep your engine healthy and provide an opportunity for your mechanic to find oil leaks early. 

Cooling System Failure

BMW engines typically run hotter than other vehicles due to its high-performance design. BMW typically uses plastic fittings on various cooling system components. These pieces are prone to faster wear and tear. Some typical causes of cooling system failure include:

1. Faulty water pumps – these are known to fail, especially electric pumps.
2. Thermostat failures – without a functional thermostat, your engine is prone to dangerous overheating.
3. Radiators and hoses – cracks and leaks will affect your entire system.

Overheating can cause extensive damage to your car, including warped cylinder heads and blown gaskets. 

What to do? If you notice your temperature gauge climbing, steam coming out from under the hood, or your coolant warning light turns on, pull over immediately and have your car towed to your auto mechanic. Driving your car as it’s overheating can result in costly engine damage. 

Timing Chain Problems

Certain BMW models, specifically those fashioned with the N20 and N26 engine models, are commonly reported as having timing chain issues. When the timing chain fails, pistons and valves begin crashing into each other, causing extensive engine damage from the inside.

Symptoms to watch out for:

1. Rattling noises.
2. Check-engine light.
3. Engine misfires.
4. Poor running performance. 

What to do? Upon noticing the symptoms listed above, we recommend scheduling an appointment immediately to ensure no further engine damage occurs.

Fuel Pump Malfunction

Your fuel pump is responsible for moving fuel into the engine. When your fuel pump is faulty, the performance of your vehicle quickly declines. 

Symptoms to watch out for:

1. Slow acceleration
2. Engine stalling or surging
3. Misfires

What to do? Upon noticing the symptoms listed above, we recommend scheduling an appointment before you experience further performance issues.

Carbon Buildup

Many BMW models have direct injection engines and are prone to carbon buildup on intake valves. Carbon build up can affect the valves heating properly, can cause artificially high compression ratio, and can affect the fuel mixture which can lead to pre-detonation and affect performance and mileage.

Symptoms to watch out for:

1. Reduced engine performance.
2. Increased fuel consumption.
3. Rough idling.

What to do? Regular cleaning of this system is necessary to avoid this issue.

Electrical Issues

As you know, BMWs are equipped with advanced electronic systems. Within these systems, there are many components that can be faulty or glitch causing what appears to be an engine issue.

Common electrical issues include:

1. Faulty sensors.
2. Battery drain.
3. Engine control unit (ECU) problems.

What to do? Taking your BMW to a mechanic who specializes in the sophisticated system that is your euro car will bring you peace of mind and the assurance that each potential problem will be diagnosed and solved efficiently. 

Why Legend Motor Works?

Here at Legend Motor Works, we are a client-first auto shop with a crew of technicians who are highly skilled in handling any and all problems that occur in European vehicle models.

What does client-first mean? It means we truthfully communicate every step of the way, we never move forward on repairs without your consent, and we run a loyalty rewards program where you earn a percentage of your invoiced amount added to your Rewards Card to use towards future services at Legend Motor Works. Other rewards benefits include:

1. Charitable Giving: You may donate your Reward Dollars to local and national charities. Watch your email and text messages for donation opportunities.
2. Earn Discounted Oil Services: Earn discounted oil services.
3. Referral Program: Earn Reward Dollars for every new customer you refer.
4. Nationwide Warranty: All services come with a 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Warranty.
5. Exclusive Loyalty Offers: Receive special offers from Legend Motor Works and exclusive deals to local businesses in our community.

We would love to get your BMW or other euro car operating at its highest capacity of performance! Click here to be taken to our home page where you can schedule an appointment today.

Contact us at: (719) 332-7475

Find us at: 21 Commerce ST, Colorado Springs, CO