Hi

I have a 2006 E60 BMW 5 series - I noticed recently that there was a small puddle of (very clean!) oil underneath the car. After further inspection this seems to be coming from a square plate which is in the middle of the front wheels. I am wondering if anyone knows what this square plate is, and what it covers, and how quickly I should take it to BMW??

Many thanks in advance!

Rich

 

If it's still under warranty of course take it in. If not, take it to an indy shop for a diagnostic. BTW, is your car a 550i? Oil was leaking from my active stabilizer, not sure if that's what it is called but it's the unit in the middle of the sway bar, behind the front cover. Had to replace it couple months ago.

BOL

 

It´s not under warranty I am afraid Is the active stabilizer or the sway bar between the two front wheels, and was the oil coming out very clean? I have a 520d, nothing as fancy as a 550i (although still very happy with it :-))

 

If the "plate" you mention sits between the front wheels and sticks out from the rest of the underbody it is a jacking point, if it is flush (even) with the rest of the underbody it is the access panel or the oil drain plug. Neither of those 2 are actually square.
If you are still under warranty - get thee to a dealer ASAP, any oil leak isn't very good news.

 

I shall take her to BMW ASAP then and get her checked out :'(