Oil Leak

sambimmer · 10-11-2024, 05:07 AM

Hi Everyone,

I have a BMW 318i 2008 but recently ive been needing to top up the oil a bit too frequently, suggesting a probable leak. I know older cars do leak but trying to find a fix...

Video attached - burns slightly at the start of a drive but fine after a few minutes.

https://youtube.com/shorts/2nZrn6iD9lc?feature=share

Clear visible leaks coming from somewhere. Anyone with experience of this know what may be the issue please?

Phil325i · 10-11-2024, 08:21 AM

Top three possibilities are:
1) Valve cover gasket
2) Oil filter housing/oil cooler gaskets
3) Sump gasket.

sambimmer · 10-11-2024, 08:43 AM

OK thanks I’ll look into those, and see if they are easy enough fixes. I presume I probably couldn’t sort it myself!

Phil325i · 10-12-2024, 04:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sambimmer

OK thanks I’ll look into those, and see if they are easy enough fixes. I presume I probably couldn’t sort it myself!

I'd say (1) and (2) are DIY possible, though maybe not (3) as it requires the subframe to be dropped and is tricky without access to a lift.

P.S. if you're doing the valve cover I'd advise replacing not just the gasket but the whole cover. They are susceptible to hairline cracks and a new cover also gives you a new PCV system...

10-11-2024, 05:07 AM	#1
sambimmer Registered 0 Rep 2 Posts Drives: BMW 318i 2008 Join Date: Oct 2024 Location: Oxfordshire iTrader: (0)	Oil Leak - Common issue? Hi Everyone, I have a BMW 318i 2008 but recently ive been needing to top up the oil a bit too frequently, suggesting a probable leak. I know older cars do leak but trying to find a fix... Video attached - burns slightly at the start of a drive but fine after a few minutes. https://youtube.com/shorts/2nZrn6iD9lc?feature=share Clear visible leaks coming from somewhere. Anyone with experience of this know what may be the issue please?
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10-11-2024, 08:21 AM	#2
Phil325i Brigadier General 635 Rep 3,208 Posts Drives: E92 325i MSport Coupe Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: UK South East iTrader: (1) Garage List 2009 BMW 325i Coupe [6.00]	Top three possibilities are: 1) Valve cover gasket 2) Oil filter housing/oil cooler gaskets 3) Sump gasket. __________________ E92 pre-LCI 325i - Ohlins R&T; H&R spacers; M3 strut brace; Swift thrust sheets; 3 x chassis braces; diff brace; N53 V-brace; 034 subframe inserts; BMS clutch stop; BMS CDV; RE g/box mounts; Delrin shift bushes; Saikoumichi OCC; Cyba scoops; BMW Perf Exhaust; HEL s/steel brake hoses; M3 rear spoiler; Recaro Sportster CSs; M3 white dash LEDs; LED Angels; LED side repeaters; BMW Perf black grille; CSL reps; SSDD carbon diffuser; Monster Wrap black roof/clear front
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10-11-2024, 08:43 AM	#3
sambimmer Registered 0 Rep 2 Posts Drives: BMW 318i 2008 Join Date: Oct 2024 Location: Oxfordshire iTrader: (0)	OK thanks I’ll look into those, and see if they are easy enough fixes. I presume I probably couldn’t sort it myself!
	Appreciate 0 Quote