2008 BMW 650Ci

Introduction The 2008 BMW 650Ci is a luxury grand tourer that debuted in 2006 as the successor to the E63 6 Series. The 650Ci featured a 4.8-liter N62 V8 engine paired with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options were not available for the 2008 model year. The 650Ci offered a combination of style, performance, and luxury, but it also had some notable issues.

Engine 4.8L N62 V8

• VANOS system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS system, which controls variable valve timing, can fail, causing reduced engine power, rough idling, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS solenoids or the entire VANOS system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Valve stem seal failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve stem seals can fail, causing excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
• Timing chain guide failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain guide can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain guide and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Transmission 6-speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front suspension component wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The front suspension components, such as control arms and ball joints, can wear out prematurely, causing noise, vibration, and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Rear suspension bushings failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension bushings can fail, causing a clunking noise and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the failed bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Battery drain issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, starter, or parasitic electrical draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical fault.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Headlight wiring harness failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight wiring harness can fail, causing the headlights to flicker or not work at all.
  • Solution: Replace the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Navigation system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system can fail, causing the screen to freeze or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replace the navigation system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Heated seat failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated seats may not heat up properly or may fail completely.
  • Solution: Replace the heating elements or the seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Recalls

• NHTSA Campaign ID: 08V168000
  • Description: Risk of fire due to windshield wiper motor insulation failure.
• NHTSA Campaign ID: 08V210000
  • Description: Risk of air bag deployment due to faulty occupant classification system.

Summary The 2008 BMW 650Ci offered a lot of performance and luxury, but it also had some notable issues. Engine problems, such as VANOS and valve stem seal failures, were common, and the suspension and electrical systems could also be problematic. The severity and cost of these issues could make ownership of a 650Ci expensive.