Bmw 550i problems
The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series consists of the BMW F10 (sedan version), F18 (long-wheelbase sedan), BMW F11 (wagon, marketed as Touring) and BMW F07 (fastback/hatchback, marketed as Gran Turismo) executive cars and were produced by BMW from January 2010 (for the 2011 model year) to 2017, with F10 being launched on 20 March 2010 to domestic market and F11 in the summer of 2010. The F07 Gran Turismo was produced from early September 2009 to 2017, being launched in the domestic German market in late October 2009.
The F10 5 Series shares a platform with the F01 7 Series full-size luxury sedan and the F12 6 Series executive-sized grand tourers. The F10 generation is the first 5 Series to offer a hybrid drivetrain, a turbocharged V8 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, a dual-clutch transmission (in the M5), active rear-wheel steering (called "Integral Active Steering"), electric power steering, double-wishbone front suspension, an LCD instrument cluster (called "Black Panel Display") and automatic parking (called "Parking Assistant"). A long-wheelbase sedan version (model code F18) was sold in China, Mexico, Turkey and the Middle East. Introduced in 2011, the M5 model is powered by the BMW S63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The Gran Turismo (F07) is the first and only 5 Series to be produced in a fastback body style with a hatchback truck opening.
In February 2017, the G30 5 Series was released as the successor to the F10. G32 6 Series Gran Turismo (based on the G30 platform) succeeded the F07.
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Bmw 550i model years
Common Bmw 550i problems
The BMW 550i is a powerful and luxurious sedan, but like any vehicle, it can have its fair share of problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the BMW 550i:
- Surging, Stalling, or Other Driveability Complaints: Some BMW 550i owners have reported surging, stalling, or other driveability issues, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty fuel injectors, spark plugs, or ignition coils. These problems can make the vehicle difficult to drive and may require extensive repairs.
- Cooling System Overheating and/or Coolant Leaks: Overheating and coolant leaks are common problems in the BMW 550i, which can be caused by a faulty water pump, radiator, or thermostat. These issues can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Loss of Power or Warning Lights While Driving: Some BMW 550i owners have reported experiencing a loss of power or warning lights while driving, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty sensors, wiring problems, or engine management system failures.
- I-Drive Issues or Repeated Dashboard Warning Displays: The BMW 550i's I-Drive system can sometimes experience issues, including repeated warning displays or system errors. These problems can be caused by software glitches, faulty sensors, or wiring issues.
- Transmission Problems: Some BMW 550i owners have reported transmission problems, including slipping, jerking, or delayed engagement. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, faulty solenoids, or worn-out clutch plates.
- Power Steering or Active Steering Problems: The BMW 550i's power steering system can sometimes experience issues, including leaks, noise, or difficulty steering. These problems can be caused by faulty power steering pumps, hoses, or rack-and-pinion assemblies.
- SRS/Airbag/Passenger Seat Occupancy Problems: Some BMW 550i owners have reported issues with the vehicle's SRS/Airbag/Passenger Seat Occupancy system, including warning lights and failure to deploy. These problems can be caused by faulty sensors, wiring issues, or software glitches.
- ABS Brake Warning Light Problems: The BMW 550i's ABS brake warning light can sometimes come on, indicating a problem with the vehicle's braking system. These issues can be caused by faulty sensors, wiring problems, or ABS module failures.
- Other Problems: BMW 550i owners have reported a variety of other issues, including excessive oil consumption, engine misfire/knocking problems, and window regulator failures.
It's important to note that not all BMW 550i vehicles will experience these problems, and many can be resolved with proper maintenance and repairs. However, if you're considering purchasing a BMW 550i, it's important to be aware of these common issues and to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
Is the BMW 550i engine reliable?
The BMW 550i Reliability Rating is 1.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 29th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars.
What is the main problem with the BMW 5 series?
BMW 5 Series air suspension problem
Rear air suspension issues are common in the 5 Series Gran Turismo, causing symptoms such as the vehicle leaning to one side, sagging at the rear, a loud bag from the suspension airbag, and hissing noises.
What is the most common problem with the 2011 BMW 550i?
The most common recall is: Camshaft Timing Adjustment Bolts Loosen And Break Causing Engine Stall.
What is the problem with the BMW 550i GT?
A number of the new twin-turbo 550i series vehicles have issues with the high pressure fuel pump/pressurized fuel delivery system, fuel injectors and spark plugs, causing a rash of drive-ability issues including “no-start”, “hard-start”, “extended cranking time”, “start then stall”, “stall while engine is running” and ...
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 550i years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 550i cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 550i model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 550i model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 550i years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw 550i car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 550i , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Tires problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 550i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 550i model years
A total of 3 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 550i model years
There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 550i model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 238 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 550i . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 550i vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw 550i 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: WBAKP9C54ED
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: This is for a 2014 BMW 550i. Getting a red warning light indicating the passenger airbag is malfunctioning. The driver side had a recall but not the passenger. This is very dangerous and should be addressed. The dealership wants over $2,700 to fix it. Doesn't feel right. Reading on the message boards and sounds to be a common problem with these cars. Could use your help.
Bmw 550i 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-13
- VIN: WBA5M6C58ED
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger restraint system malfunction
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-17
- VIN: WBASP4C52BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Vehicle displays Transmission Malfunction & DSC and xDrive malfunction, this vehicle is available upon request for inspection. Currently been to two dealerships and all I got from the first dealership is to replace transmission at 59k mile. I purchased a used transmission same problem exist in the replacement transmission. As I was driving on highway, the transmission began displaying message above and caused the vehicle suddenly slow down without warning lights causing me to avoid an accident by pulling over to avoid being rear ended. The problem has been reproduced by dealer: tech and service advisors manager( authorized to drive) and he charge me for a tow even after I mention to him I have AAA if he needs it. Service manager stated that it may need the mechatronics unit which $4k for part but they’re unsure because they didn’t take it apart but it’s a known issue. They mention that it’s a known problem for the TCM (mechatronic valve throttle body control module to go bad). Manufacturer has not inspected vehicle. So currently it’s at BMW of Owings Mills get a second opinion.
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBAFU9C51BC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle was parked while running errands, returned to leave and it would not start. Went to trunk to check battery connection and found that the positive battery cable had burnt in two where it connects to cable that runs to the engine compartment. Carpet cover and sound deadening coating had burnt and cable fell through trunk floor on top of gas tank. Car was towed and insurance refused to replace what caused fire, only what burnt from source ie. carpet cover and floor but not wiring. BMW dealer reports they don’t know what caused cable to overheat.
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-05
- VIN: WBAFU9C54BC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 550I. The contact stated that after having an oil change performed, he noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a stem valve cover failure. The contact was informed that the valve cover needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,500.
Bmw 550i 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-02
- VIN: WBAFR9C58CD
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was driving when the vehicle engine randomly shut down with out warning I was on the freeway at the time and could have been hit by a car. I took thr car to an auto repair shop, had the problem inspected snddiagnosed and was told the engine was faulty. I had the engine replaced and the same issue occurred. There were no warning lamps, messages, or alerts prior to the problem occurring. The drivetrain malfunction light came on as soon as the engine cut off.
Bmw 550i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-08
- VIN: WBAFR9C57DD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Water resistant
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-02
- VIN: WBAFR9C55BC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased this car from a used dealer ship, drove it for less than a month. Then it started misfiring. I paid the car off in cash so I decided to change all of the coils and spark plugs so I did that outta my own pocket also. They put an insert inside of my 2nd spark plug so I need up getting it out and it wasn’t even a spark plug to my car. I was driving and it locked up the engine on me. I have a free engine replacement on this car right ? Any recalls that can fix this problem for me
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-17
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-21
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 5 Series. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed as a camshaft failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number- 14V176000 ( Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,000. The VIN was not available.
Bmw 550i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-09
- VIN: WBAKN9C55FD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump supply / drive train malfunction. Vehicle was driven in freeway and has sudden message pop up on display screen and abruptly shut down. Unable to exit the freeway lanes. Stuck on the inbound lanes of freeway. Unable to re start vehicle to exit freeway. Took vehicle to local repair shop for inspection/repair to be made to fuel pump supply , only to have the same problem return in matter of days of repairs made.
Bmw 550i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-27
- VIN: wbakp9c57fd
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The transmission's automatic gear selector indicator lights are no longer working properly. Without the indicator lights, it is difficult to determine if the vehicle is in Park, Drive or Reverse which is a MAJOR safety issue. This is apparently a well known issue with this vehicle model and no recall has been issued as of yet. There are no warning lights, the issue is confirmed by an independent repair facility and the full shifter assembly requires replacement. The part cost is over $1000.00 plus installation cost. This appeared on my vehicle last week at mileage of roughly 58,000 miles.
Bmw 550i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-01
- VIN: WBASN0C51DD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 BMW 550i. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the warning message illuminated on the instrument panel stating, “Driving moderately and drive pit not available”. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the high-speed fuel pump on the passenger’s side was replaced but the failure continued. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the high-speed pressure sensor was replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 96,280.
Bmw 550i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-04
- VIN: WBAFU9C54BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I started my car to drive to an appointment and noticed that the car was jerking/bucking as I pulled out of my driveway onto the main road. I was unable to accelerate appropriately for oncoming traffic behind me because the car was jerking violently and it was a bit scary since this had not happened before. This continued for several days, primarily when I would attempt to drive the car in the morning. On one occasion the drive train malfunction light illuminated as I was making my way to an appointment at the Veterans Administration and I had to gingerly turn the car around and head back home. Someone could have ran into me because the car didn't have much power. What followed next was the inability to get my car to move when it was placed in reverse. I took the car to the dealership and was told that the car's transmission needs to be replaced ($11,000) because the car is trying to drive in reverse and first gear at the same time. What?!! In over 20 years of servicing BMW's, they have never seen a situation like this. I don't believe I should bear the cost for this when I bought a pretty expensive car in good faith, which has only 80,000 miles.
Bmw 550i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-11
- VIN: Wbafr9c51dd
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have soft closing doors on my vehicle. My doors won’t unlock/open, the only way I can get the driver side door open is using the physical key. When trying to unlock the door with the key fob, it makes the sound but none of the doors unlock. The unlock button inside doesn’t work and when trying to open the other doors (passenger side and rear doors) manually, it won’t open! Thank goodness I didn’t have anyone in the backseat, otherwise I would have to call the fire department and they would probably have to end up breaking the glass if they couldn’t crawl through the front. I feel this is a major safety issue. The dealer said it maybe a fuse or actuator issue. To replace one actuator is $1300, and I may need to replace all four! The car is like a death trap currently, again I’m just thankful no one was in the back seat.
Bmw 550i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-27
- VIN: WBAKN9C55FD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When driving in freeway , Vehicles display " Drivetrain malfunction " - fuel supply full drive performance not available and begins to shut off abruptly in lanes. Can not restart vehicles. Vehicles can not be towed off the freeway lanes due to not begin able to put vehicle in Neutral mode. Vehicle was taken to local repair shop and parts were repair / replaced relating to fuel supply system. Same problems has reoccurring after 2 weeks of repairs.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw 550i
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 19 recalls for different components of the Bmw 550i.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw 550i 2014
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
- Remedy: The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 550i 2011
- Report Received Date: 2018-04-18
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.
- Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.
- Model: Bmw 550i 2012
- Report Received Date: 2018-04-18
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.
- Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning June 11, 2018, and will receive a second notification when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at BMW 1-800-525-7417, MINI at 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW recommends that owners park their vehicle outdoors until the recall remedy has been performed.
- Model: Bmw 550i 2006
- Report Received Date: 2017-07-06
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: BMW of North America, Inc. (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, and 550i vehicles equipped with the Sport Seat option and certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i vehicles with standard seats. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if, and how, the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
- Consequence: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 1, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 550i 2016
- Report Received Date: 2016-12-20
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, Mini 4-Door Cooper, Cooper S, Mini 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and 2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, M5 and 535d vehicles. The affected vehicles have seat- mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash.
- Consequence: If the air bag inflator initiator fails to ignite, the seat-mounted air bag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began February 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Are you having problems with your Bmw 550i?
