2007 BMW 550i

The 2007 BMW 550i is a luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. It came with a powerful 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. While a popular choice for its engaging driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of common issues that can arise with this model year. Owners appreciate its responsive handling and elegant design, but some dislike its high maintenance costs and potential for complex repairs. Other engine and transmission options available for the 2007 5 Series include the 3.0L inline-6 engines (525i, 530i) and the 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

N62B48 4.8L V8

• Valve Stem Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke upon startup, especially after the car has been sitting for a while. Excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals. This is a labor-intensive job as it often requires removing the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Transfer Pipe Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak at the rear of the engine, often dripping onto the transmission. Can lead to overheating if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the coolant transfer pipe (also known as the valley pan). This requires significant engine disassembly. Upgraded aluminum pipes are available as a more permanent solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Bracket Oil Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the alternator bracket gasket. Can be difficult to diagnose as it’s often mistaken for a valve cover gasket leak.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator bracket gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, engine hesitation, check engine light with VANOS-related codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to serious engine damage if the timing chain jumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 6HP26 6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid/Filter $300 - $600, Valve Body $1,500-$3,000, Rebuild/Replace $3,500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the electrical connector sleeve where the wiring harness enters the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sagging, error message on the iDrive screen, compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replacing the air springs (airbags), compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Springs $500 - $1,500 each, Compressor $400-$1000+, Sensors $150 - $500 each
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Steering wheel vibration.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushings $300-$600, Control Arms $500 - $1,200+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive screen freezing, rebooting, or displaying error messages. Controller knob malfunction.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the entire iDrive computer (CCC unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update $150 - $300, Controller $200-$500, CCC Unit $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or after a few days of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the parasitic drain (often a faulty module) and repairing or replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the source of the drain, $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Malfunction (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Keyless entry and start not working, door handles not responding.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle sensors, comfort access module, or key fob.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sensors $200-$500 each, Module $400-$800, Key Fob $300-$500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Carrier Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle feeling loose or not opening the door properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle carrier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Fabric headliner detaching from the roof.
  • Solution: Replacing the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW 550i, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is prone to several notable issues. The engine is particularly susceptible to oil leaks and valve stem seal failures, leading to potentially expensive repairs. The transmission can also experience problems, especially with slipping and harsh shifting, requiring fluid changes or even a complete rebuild. Electrical issues and suspension problems can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should factor these potential expenses into their purchasing decision and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection.