BMW 1 Series: Oil Pressure Warning Signs & Engine Noises

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars, and this hits close to home. I had a similar issue with my 2012 BMW 3 Series diesel last year. Those symptoms sound exactly like what I faced, the warning lights, weird engine noises, the whole deal. Turned out my oil pump was failing. Got it checked at my regular workshop, and they confirmed it needed replacement. The whole thing, including parts and labor, cost me around 755 Euro. Not cheap, but it had to be done to prevent serious engine damage. Have you checked your current oil level and when was your last oil change? Also, what's your current mileage? These details would help me share more specific advice about your situation. I'd really recommend getting it checked ASAP though, wouldn't want you risking engine damage. By the way, these issues are somewhat common in BMW diesels of that generation. The M Series diesel engines in particular can be a bit sensitive about oil pressure.

Thanks for your detailed response! Just had my latest service done in May, and I'm currently at 99520 KM. Yeah, the symptoms you described with your 3 Series sound identical to what I'm experiencing. I've been checking the oil level regularly and it's spot on, but those mechanical noises are getting more worrying. Good to know about the oil pump being the likely culprit, I'll get it checked out this week. Rather pay for the pump replacement now than risk bigger engine problems later. Really appreciate the heads up about the repair costs too. At least I know what to expect when I take it to the shop. Thanks for the quick help!

Hey again! Glad I could help earlier. Yeah, looking at your mileage and maintenance history, it's definitely ringing the same bells as my situation. Since you mentioned the oil level is good but you're still getting those noises, I'm even more convinced it's the oil pump, just like what happened with my 3 Series. I remember when mine started making those sounds, I tried to drive it as little as possible until I could get it to the shop. The noise in my case started as a slight ticking that got worse over time, especially when the engine was warm. Quick tip from my experience, when you take it in, ask them to also check the oil pressure sensor while they're at it. When they replaced my pump, they found the sensor was also a bit wonky and could have caused issues down the line. It only added a small amount to the total bill but gave me peace of mind. The good news is that since getting the pump replaced, my car's been running like a dream, no more warning lights or scary noises. Just make sure you get to it soon. Trust me, you don't want to end up like my who ignored similar symptoms and ended up with metal shavings in his oil pan!

Thanks so much for the follow-up advice! That's super helpful about the oil pressure sensor, I'll definitely ask them to check that too when I take it in. I've already called my mechanic and booked it in for tomorrow morning. Those metal shavings in your 's oil pan sound terrifying! You've seriously put my mind at ease about this whole situation. The ticking noise you mentioned is exactly what I'm hearing, gets worse when the engine's warm, just like you said. I've been avoiding driving it since yesterday, just making essential trips until the appointment. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience in such detail. It's definitely helped me understand what I'm dealing with, and I feel much more confident about handling this repair now. I'll make sure to get both the pump and sensor checked out. Thanks again for all your help!