2007 BMW 650Ci

The 2007 BMW 650Ci is a stylish grand tourer known for its blend of performance and luxury. It boasts a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. While owners generally appreciate its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and elegant design, common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with electrical systems and oil leaks. The only transmission option available was a 6-speed automatic.

Engine

4.8L N62 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, the alternator bracket gasket, the vacuum pump, and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include oil spots on the ground, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets is the usual solution. For vacuum pump leaks, sometimes a rebuild kit is available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the location and extent of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points including the coolant transfer pipe (“valley pan”), radiator hoses, water pump, and expansion tank. Signs include low coolant levels, overheating, and coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replace leaking components. The coolant transfer pipe replacement requires significant labor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+ (depending on the location and extent of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoid(s) is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (depending on how many need replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator failure can occur, leading to low voltage, a battery light, and eventual inability to start the car.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission can experience valve body issues, leading to hard shifting, slipping, and erratic behavior.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body or rebuilding the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+ (depending on the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve (where the wiring harness connects to the transmission) can leak, causing transmission fluid loss and potential shifting problems.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve is a common fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can lead to vibrations, clunking noises, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the parts replaced and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with ARS, the system can experience hydraulic leaks or pump failures, resulting in warning lights and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the leaking lines, pump, or ARS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain is a common complaint. This can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly, a parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain. This often requires diagnostic testing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience glitches, freezes, and complete failures.
  • Solution: Resetting the system, updating software, or replacing the iDrive module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the issue and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: For convertible models, the top mechanism can experience issues with the hydraulic pump, sensors, or motors, leading to the top not operating correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the specific component causing the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, resulting in the inability to lock or unlock doors remotely.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to get stuck or not open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat motors can fail, preventing proper seat adjustment.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW 650Ci, while stylish and enjoyable to drive, is prone to several common issues. The most frequent problems involve oil leaks and electrical malfunctions. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing gaskets to more costly repairs such as transmission valve body replacement or iDrive module replacement. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.