Common Symptoms of Oil Cooler Seal Failure in BMW 6 Series

Posted on January 7, 2025 by Carson Wileman

Is it a bad sign if you own a BMW 6 Series and see oil dripping under your vehicle? The answer is a straightforward YES.  A defective oil cooler seal typically shows itself through several warning signs, including oil under your vehicle. We all know that BMW vehicles stand for luxury and performance, but like all vehicles, they experience normal wear and tear as they age. BMW 6 Series drivers frequently experience problems with their oil cooler seal because it can cause severe engine damage if maintenance is delayed. This guide explains how an oil cooler seal operates and how to identify seal failure indicators.

How Does The Oil Cooler Work

An oil cooler is an important part of your BMW 6 series. Usually constructed with lightweight, thermally conductive aluminum, the oil cooler may contain a system of fins, tubes, or plates aimed at heat exchange. It operates by pumping hot oil through its passages, exchanging heat with airflow or cooler. In an air-cooled system, air flows through a cooler to cool the oil, while a liquid-cooled system uses water or coolant to absorb heat from the oil. If possible, a BMW engine oil cooler is placed near the front grille or the radiator or block.

The oil cooler seal fits between the oil cooler and the surface to which the oil cooler is affixed, providing a leak-proof interface, whether on the engine block or the housing assembly. Constructed from high-temperature-resistant rubber or synthetic material, the seal helps retain high-pressure oil within the system at extremely high engine temperatures. It is highly recommended that the oil cooler and its related seals be well installed and that appropriate procedures be followed to check for and rectify leaks or obstructions of oil flow. The oil cooler shields engine performance while extending engine life by establishing efficient cooling and lubrication in demanding situations or prolonged driving.

How You Can Identify a Broken Oil Cooler Seal in Your BMW

• Visible Oil Leaks: The first and most apparent indication of the failure of oil cooler seals is oil dripping beneath your automobile. Look at the ground for signs of oil leakage, and check the vicinity around the front of your BMW. If you notice oil spills on your driveway or garage floor, it’s time to look deeper.
• Burning Oil Smell: A damaged oil cooler seal causes oil to leak and drip on hot parts of the engine, giving it a burning smell. If you smell this stench while driving, after stopping at a traffic signal, or after turning off the engine, then you have a problem.
• Overheating Engine: If the seal is bad and oil leaks, your engine may have inadequate lubrication or cooling. This can lead to an overheating engine which, if not treated, can lead to a major car breakdown.
• Low Oil Levels: If your car’s oil levels appear to be running low more frequently than usual, you could suffer from an oil cooler seal leak. Make it a practice to check your oil levels to be aware of any sudden changes.
• Dashboard Warning Lights: Your BMW contains engine health monitoring sensors that check your engine status. When your vehicle’s oil pressure warning or check engine light illuminates, it signals potential problems with the oil cooler seal.

What Next After Identifying Oil Cooler Leak?

After identifying a failed oil cooler seal, the next step is to replace it. Take your BMW to an auto repair shop that has been in the business for years and has qualified BMW specialists so that they can carefully confirm the particular seal that is leaking and replace it with a quality seal.

Need Professional BMW Repairs in Bellingham? Turn to Mint Automotive

If you have reasons to believe that there is a faulty oil cooler seal in your BMW 6 Series, do not take time to contact us. All our technicians at Mint Automotive, located in Bellingham, WA, are skilled and capable of working on complicated European cars. We are honored to provide auto repair services to customers in Bellingham and beyond so that your BMW gets the attention it needs. We are ready to assist, whether it is a small oil leak or a major failure requiring an oil cooler seal change. Visit us today for an appointment and ensure your BMW stays on the road for many more miles.