2008 BMW 650Ci

The 2008 BMW 650Ci is a stylish grand tourer known for its blend of performance and luxury. It comes equipped with a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the car’s elegant design, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. However, common complaints include high maintenance costs and potential reliability issues, particularly with electrical components and oil leaks.

Engine

4.8L N62 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a very common issue in the N62 engine. Leaks often originate from the valve cover gaskets, the alternator bracket gasket, the oil filter housing gasket, or the timing cover seals. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal. Sometimes, the entire valve cover may need replacement if it is warped or cracked.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are common due to aging plastic components in the cooling system. Expansion tanks, radiator hoses, and the water pump are known failure points. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the location and component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seals
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn valve stem seals allow oil to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in excessive oil consumption and blue exhaust smoke, especially upon startup or after deceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals. This is a labor-intensive job that often requires removing the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 6HP26 transmission can experience slipping between gears or harsh, jerky shifts. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body components, or internal damage to the clutch packs.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change can sometimes resolve minor issues. More severe problems may require valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ for fluid flush, $800+ for valve body replacement, $3,000 - $6,000+ for a rebuild.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings are prone to wear and tear, leading to clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm, depending on whether bushings only or entire arm is replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ARS system can develop leaks in the hydraulic lines or failure of the ARS pump, leading to reduced roll control and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the leaking lines, ARS pump, or other faulty components in the ARS system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the component requiring replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain is a common issue, often caused by a faulty comfort access module, a malfunctioning iDrive system, or parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories. Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the car, and error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the battery drain. This may involve replacing the faulty module or disconnecting the aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience freezing, lagging, or complete failure. This can be caused by software glitches, hardware failures, or a faulty control knob.
  • Solution: Attempting a software update or replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Comfort access can be faulty, causing problems unlocking or locking the car, or starting the engine without the key.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty comfort access antenna, door handle sensor, or comfort access module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Model Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience failures, leading to difficulty opening or closing the top, or leaks. This can be caused by worn hydraulic components or faulty sensors.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the faulty components in the convertible top system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can jam, get stuck, or make excessive noise when operating. This can be caused by a lack of lubrication, debris in the tracks, or a broken motor.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks or replacing the sunroof motor or other faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the severity and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 650Ci offers a luxurious and sporty driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues that can arise with this model. Engine oil leaks and electrical problems are prevalent, and repairs can be costly. Suspension and transmission issues can also contribute to higher maintenance costs. Overall, the 2008 BMW 650Ci can be a rewarding car to own if properly maintained, but potential owners should factor in the possibility of expensive repairs.