my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) smells like burning oil, what should I check?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
• Disconnect the battery to avoid electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Clean

• Sub-steps:
  1. Remove any engine covers to access components.
  2. Clean the area around suspected leaks with a degreaser to identify the source.
  3. Use a flashlight to inspect the engine and surrounding components thoroughly.

3. Replace Faulty Gaskets

• Sub-steps:
  1. If the valve cover gasket is leaking, remove the valve cover by loosening the bolts in a crisscross pattern.
  2. Remove the old gasket and clean the mating surfaces.
  3. Install the new gasket and torque the bolts to the manufacturer specifications (typically around 10 Nm).
  4. If the oil filter is leaking, remove the old filter using an oil filter wrench, lubricate the rubber O-ring on the new filter with oil, and install it. Tighten to manufacturer specifications (usually hand-tight).

4. Address Other Leaks

• Sub-steps:
  1. If the oil drain pan gasket is leaking, drain the oil and remove the drain plug.
  2. Remove the oil pan bolts and carefully detach the oil pan.
  3. Clean the mating surfaces and install the new gasket.
  4. Reinstall the oil pan, torque bolts to specifications, and replace the drain plug.
  5. Refill the engine with oil to the correct level.

5. Reconnect Battery and Test

• Reconnect the battery.
• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature, checking for any leaks or abnormal sounds.