The emission system in your BMW keeps the engine running efficiently. It is important that all the components are working properly. If components begin to fail, your vehicle will produce harmful emissions. Many states have strict rules on vehicle emissions because emissions are pollutants that are harmful to your health and the environment.
BMWs are equipped with complex emission systems which exceed the standards that have been put in place by law. The system has been designed to prevent harmful emissions from being released into the atmosphere where it can harm humans, animals, and the environment.
All the emission system components work together to eliminate any toxic emissions your BMW is expelling. If one of the parts fails, your check engine light should illuminate.
The 4 main pollutants produced by vehicles are:
● Carbon Monoxide
● Hydrocarbons (HC)
● Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
● Particulate Matter (PM)
If you experience any issues with your emission system, it is critical that you get the problem fixed right away. Not only will your BMW release toxic emissions into the environment, it will also malfunction, and you may experience some of the more common issues below:
● check engine light illumination
● loss of engine performance
● burning more gas than usual
● smell of gas inside and/or outside your car
● engine jerking or stuttering
● hesitation when accelerating
● failure to start
● malfunction in shifting
● rough idling
● stalling
If your oxygen sensor is bad, it cannot properly monitor the exhaust. This can lead to an increase in toxic emissions. The excess fuel can produce a rotten egg smell and black exhaust.
Failing spark plugs can cause an increase in fuel consumption. This will cause incomplete combustion which will lead to increased emissions.
Old oil contains more hydrocarbons than clean oil. Changing your oil will allow your engine to run cleaner.
If the fuel injectors are not working properly, this can lead to a rich air-to-fuel ratio.
When the EVAP system fails, gas vapors can leak out of the tank. These vapors pollute the atmosphere.
Your fuel tank needs to be sealed. If it is not sealed tightly, you may fail the emissions test.
A dirty air filter can cause high levels of hydrocarbons.
If your catalytic converter is damaged or failing, you may fail an emissions test. It is unable to convert the toxic gases into gases that are safe for the environment.
If your engine components are worn out it can cause higher emissions. You may notice a grayish-blue smoke coming out of the tailpipe.
If your coolant is leaking into the exhaust, it may emit a sweet smell and/or a sticky residue.
A rich air-to-fuel mixture will cause an excessive amount of gas to be burned. If you notice that your BMW is using more fuel than usual, you likely have an issue.
When your BMW has an exhaust leak, the O2 sensor will not be able to get accurate readings. The emissions may also pass the catalytic converter, so they will not be changed to less toxic emissions.
Even if every other component is working correctly, you may fail an emissions test due to a faulty check engine light.
St. Matthews Imports is a family-owned and operated company with over 45 years of experience. BMWs require special care, and our expert mechanics can properly diagnose your emission system issues. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best service around. We are certain that you will be highly satisfied with the service you receive here.
By being proactive, you can help reduce the harmful emissions from your BMW by ensuring regular maintenance and also replacing your gas cap if it is leaking. If your check engine light comes on, bring it in to have it checked out immediately. We will also perform routine tune-ups for your BMW and keep an eye out for any of the above warning signs that may signal emissions issues.
If you are experiencing trouble with your BMW emission system, call us today at (502) 896-0305 or use our convenient online form to request an appointment. St. Matthews Import has multiple locations, and you can visit our Hubbards Lane shop for your BMW automotive service and repair needs.