BMW X6 Limp Mode: Oil Temp Sensor Alert

Hey there! Had the same issue with my 2012 BMW X5 35i last year. The limp mode and check engine combo is definitely frustrating. When it happened to me, it turned out to be the oil temp sensor connection that had corroded over time. The mechanic found that the wiring harness near the sensor was also showing signs of wear. It wasn't a major repair in my case, just needed to clean the connections and replace the sensor along with a small portion of the wiring harness. The whole job took about 2-3 hours at the shop. Not a serious issue if caught early, but if left unchecked, it could potentially lead to engine performance problems. One tip: make sure they check the connector pins and surrounding wiring thoroughly. Sometimes what seems like a faulty sensor is just a bad connection. If you've got the limp mode with the exact same symptoms as mine, there's a good chance it's the sensor or its wiring. Hope this helps with your decision.

Hey, thanks so much for sharing your X5 experience! That does sound pretty similar to what I'm dealing with. Mind if I ask roughly how much the repair set you back? Also curious if you've had any related issues pop up since getting it fixed? This info really helps, been stressing about whether this might be something bigger, but your experience makes it sound manageable. Gonna make sure they check those connector pins properly when I take it in.

Hey again! Just wanted to follow up, glad I could help earlier! After seeing your questions, I thought you'd like to know that I had the exact same fix done, and it cost me 95 € to repair the faulty connection. The mechanic found a damaged cable connection to the oil temp sensor, just like I suspected. They got it sorted pretty quick, and I'm happy to report I haven't had a single issue since then, no more limp mode, no warning lights, nothing! The best part? My car's running smooth as butter now. It's amazing how something as simple as a dodgy sensor connection can cause such a headache. Trust me, once they fix that connection, you'll be good to go. It's definitely not one of those scary expensive BMW repairs we all dread. If you want my honest opinion, it sounds exactly like what I dealt with, and it's a pretty straightforward fix. Just make sure your mechanic knows their way around BMW electronics, that's really the key here. Keep us posted on how it goes with yours!

Thanks for all the detailed info! I actually just got back from the mechanic today, and you were spot on! Took it to a shop that specializes in German cars, and they found the exact same issue, corroded connection and a worn sensor. Cost me around 110 € total, which was such a relief considering I was imagining much worse. The repair went super smooth, only took them about two hours. Took it for a test drive right after, and what a difference! No more limp mode, engine's running great, and that pesky check engine light is finally gone. You were absolutely right about making sure they checked the connections thoroughly. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, helped me avoid a ton of stress and probably saved me from getting overcharged somewhere else. Sometimes it's just nice to hear from someone who's been through the same thing, you know? Thanks again for all your help!