BMWs are known for their performance, luxury, and reliability. They’re an honor to own and to drive, but like any other vehicle, mechanical issues can arise over time. When these issues involve the engine or transmission, things can escalate quickly. Many minor issues have the potential to become extremely costly if they’re not addressed right away.
Understanding the most common BMW engine and transmission problems can help you identify a potential issue and take care of it before it becomes too serious. Here’s a look at some of the problems you may encounter.
Oil Leaks
Oil leaks are one of the most common causes of BMW engine problems. This is often caused by a leaky oil filter gasket or a brittle valve cover gasket.
BMW gaskets are made of plastic, rubber, or cork, and over time, they can get brittle and crack or fail to function due to the buildup of dirt and debris. As oil leaks, the engine fails to get the lubrication it needs. This can increase wear and tear and over time could lead to complete engine failure.
If you notice brown spots under your BMW, you’re likely dealing with an oil leak and will want to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can.
Faulty Cooling System
Your BMW’s cooling system circulates coolant and water through the engine to keep it running at an optimal temperature and prevent it from overheating. Over time, wear and tear can cause critical pieces like your thermostat or water pump to fail. This can lead to steam under the hood, frequent overheating, and low coolant levels. Consistent vehicle maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent a cooling system failure.
Timing Chain Failure
BMW timing chains are also infamous for failing prematurely. Signs of a stretched or loose timing chain include unusual noises, rough idling, or the dreaded check engine light. This can be a costly repair, but if it’s not taken care of, the chain can eventually come off completely, resulting in engine failure.
Fuel Pump Malfunction
BMWs have a low-pressure fuel pump that pulls gas out of the tank, and a high-pressure pump that forces the gas into a combustion chamber. Unfortunately, the high-pressure pump is known to fail. When this happens, you may notice that your engine starts to stutter or you’ll experience poor acceleration.
Replacing a high-pressure fuel pump is a costly repair if your BMW isn’t under warranty. Since this issue can sometimes be caused by failing to keep up with oil changes, it’s critical to keep up with your BMW’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Transmission Leaks
If you notice pink or red puddles under your BMW, it’s time to get your transmission fluid levels checked. It’s fairly common for leaks to occur when gaskets and seals in the transmission system start to fail. If the fluid levels get too low, it can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.
It’s important to note that sometimes transmission leaks can occur internally, making it difficult to detect. For this reason, it’s a good idea to have a trusted mechanic periodically inspect your transmission system.
Low Transmission Fluid
Your transmission fluid provides lubrication, keeping the transmission at an optimal temperature and ensuring there is minimal friction when you switch gears. When the fluid gets low, it can cause overheating and transmission damage.
Low fluid can be caused by a leak or can become an issue when your fluid has reached the end of its useful life. You can prevent costly problems by checking your transmission fluid at least every six months and making sure the reservoir stays full.
Blocked Transmission Filters
The transmission fluid filter collects dirt and debris that has made its way into the transmission fluid. Over time, this filter can get clogged, preventing the fluid from passing through. When this happens, it can have the same effect as low transmission fluid.
Mechatronic Bridge Seal Adapter
A BMW’s mechatronic bridge seal adapter prevents pressure loss in the transmission system, allowing for smoother gear shifting. This piece is made of plastic and can sometimes crack, reducing pressure and causing a fluid leak. As a result, you’re likely to notice erratic gear changes and other transmission issues.
Trust The Haus for Your BMW Engine & Transmission Needs
Taking care of your BMW’s engine and transmission can help you avoid major problems. Whether it’s time for your regular maintenance or you’re experiencing mechanical issues, the experts at The Haus are here to help.
We have two convenient locations, making it easy to access us from anywhere in the San Fernando Valley area. Contact us today to discuss your needs and schedule your VIP appointment.