Hello everyone.
I have a 1998/06 520i with about 115000 miles.
About a week ago after turning off the engine, yellow oil warning light turned on for about 2 or 3 minutes. I've checked the manual and it says I have to top oil level. Well, I've checked and oil level is on top, so everything is ok. This started to happen almost every day after 30 minutes of driving. About 2 or 3 times this light turned on during a journey, but restarting the car turned it off. What could this be? Oil level sensor? I hope it's not oil pump or something.

Best regards,
Nikolai D.

The warning is this one:
bimmerfest.com/photos/data/500/1137yellow_oil_light.jpg

Did you check your oil level after warming it up to normal operating temperature and then waiting about 10 min after shutting it down, on a even surface?

If so, it could be a sensor I guess...

I think it's definately a sensor thing...I brought my E39 to the dealer and they cleaned and the tuned up the motor but after that I keep getting the same problem.
BTW...this is my first post here. :rolleyes

Peace

Yes I have checked oil level in every possible condition, seems ok. Well, i'll take it to BMW to check the sensor. If it's broken, well I guess I'll buy a new one, it's about 170 USD (Hella #12617508002). Thank you guys.

Could be oil pump as well. Intermittent failure to keep oil pressure will definitely kill it. I suggest you take it to the dealer. Its lights like this that scare the $hit out of me.

I know this thread has been dormant for months, but I found it while searching the e39 forum for possible causes for the yellow oil level warning lamp. The same has happened to me twice now...the warming lamp illuminates for a few minutes after shutting off the engine, yet my oil level is fine. Yes, I know how to check the oil level. I called my mechanic who told me it sounds like a bad sensor and, until we can schedule a time for a replacement, not to worry if the level is good. So, for any of you reading this who have experienced the same problem, did you have your sensor replaced? Did the warning lamp come back after? Could there be an oil pump problem associated with oil level sensor failure?