Engine Oil Pressure Diagnosis Hints (SI B11 03 23)

Publication date: 2023-03-03
Reference number: SI B11 03 23

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE DIAGNOSIS HINTS

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): SI B11 03 23, Date of Issue: March 03, 2023

BMW:	All models

Read this entire procedure before attempting to diagnose a vehicle with low oil pressure check control messages or oil pressure faults.
DO NOT run the engine.
Perform the applicable test plans for the faults stored in the vehicle starting with the test plans directly associated with the oil pressure. For example, if the vehicle has VANOS faults, do not perform the VANOS function test before addressing the oil pressure faults. Performing the VANOS function test could damage the engine.
The applicable oil pressure test plan may state one of the following:
"RUN THE ENGINE, CHECK THE OIL PRESSURE, START A FUNCTIONAL CHECK."

OR

"IN THE EVENT OF UNUSUAL ENGINE NOISES OR A CHECK CONTROL MESSAGE (OIL PRESSURE TOO LOW): OIL PUMP MAY BE FAULTY! DO NOT CARRY OUT ANY FUNCTIONAL CHECK (RISK OF DAMAGE), AND CONTACT TECHNICAL SUPPORT"

DO NOT run the engine, or start any type of functional test that involves starting the engine.
Remove the engine oil filter and inspect it for metal or engine bearing material.
Capture photos of the filter, filter cap and filter housing. Make sure they are in focus and have good illumination (e.g., workbench desk lamp, flashlight, camera flash). Image size should not exceed 1 Mb.

Create and submit a TSARA Hotline case and wait for a response. Attaching the photos when the case is created and submitted will reduce diagnosis time.

This Service Information Bulletin provides technical and diagnosis-related information.

Damage and/or issues caused by outside influences are not covered under the BMW limited warranties.

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