Does Your BMW Keep Saying Low Oil? Here's What It Could Mean

If you are like most people, you probably take your BMW’s low oil indicator for granted… until something goes wrong. While there are many possible reasons why your automobile may show the low oil warning indicator, in this blog post, we will cover some of the common causes along with solutions. Therefore, it is crucial that you read this blog post all the way through.

BMW Keeps Saying Low Oil? Here’s why

Ignoring such a warning indicator can allow minor issues to become major expenses. This warning light may indicate that your engine needs a quick tune-up or a costly repair. Nonetheless, the sooner you can determine the cause of this warning indicator, the better.

Here’s what a low oil indicator light may signify;

Possible reason #1- Engine is low on oil

This is perhaps the simplest explanation for the illumination of low oil light on the dashboard of a vehicle. Oil helps the engine in many ways; from providing lubrication to getting rid of excess heat. If its level drops below the minimum permissible level, the engine will suffer from all sorts of problems; ranging from declined performance to bad gas mileage. So, if your BMW’s low oil indicator is on, the first thing that you should do is to have someone check on the oil level.

Possible reason #2- Faulty oil pump

If your BMW's low oil light is on, it is likely an oil pump issue. An oil pump is a mechanical unit that serves an important purpose in a car engine. It makes sure that oil is circulating throughout the engine continuously and reaching distinctive parts of the engine. If it goes bad, the oil will not be able to reach every corner of the engine. This is more than enough reason for the onboard computer to activate the low oil warning indicator on the dashboard.

Possible reason #3- Oil sludge

Yup, you read that right… low oil light can also come on because of oil sludge buildup. In case you didn't know, oil sludge develops when motor oil oxidizes and degrades; collecting dirt, metallic flakes, coolant, and fuel. It is a jelly-like substance that can restrict the circulation of oil in your engine. When that happens, oil pressure within the engine will reduce and the engine will struggle to operate. Change your BMW engine oil regularly to prevent oil sludge formation.

Possible reason #4- Clogged filter

Low oil light may also come on if you don't replace your BMW engine oil filter after it becomes clogged. The oil filter is an important part of a car engine. Its task is to maintain the cleanliness of the engine oil. By doing so, it effectively shields important engine components from sludge and other pollutants. However, it can get clogged over time. If a clogged filter isn't replaced in a timely manner, it might lead to a variety of engine issues. And, yes… low oil pressure warning indicator may come on as a result.

BMW Keeps Saying Low Oil? Do This

Now that you've learned about some of the key causes of a BMW's low oil light illumination, let's talk about what you can do to deal with it.

• Check the engine oil

If your BMW's low oil indicator is on, the first thing that you should do is check the engine oil level and quality. Refill the reservoir if there is not enough oil. And, if oil is contaminated and full of sludge, replace it right away.

• Check the oil filter

A dirty oil filter can cause all sorts of engine drama in a car. So, it's crucial that you periodically check the oil filter in your car and, if necessary, replace it. If there is nothing wrong with the filter and oil, reach out to a mechanic. He will be able to diagnose and fix the exact problem.

To Put It In A Nutshell…

If your BMW's low oil indicator is on, don't take it for granted as it could signify serious engine trouble. There are many different things that can result in the appearance of low oil light on the dash of a vehicle. You must identify the precise nature of the issue and take a similar course of action. Because the engine will experience severe mechanical issues if you ignore the light and do nothing about it.

We at Dart Auto are Denver’s finest German auto repair shop and have earned a reputation among drivers as consistently reliable and high performing vehicles in any condition. We specialize in servicing and repairing of most popular German vehicles.