2009 BMW 650Ci

The 2009 BMW 650Ci is a stylish and powerful grand tourer. It came equipped with a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car’s elegant design, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. However, some common complaints include the car’s high maintenance costs and the complexity of its electrical systems.

Engine

4.8L N62 V8

• Valve Stem Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially after the car has been sitting for a while.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, low coolant warning light. Common leak points include the coolant transfer pipe (valley pan), radiator, and expansion tank.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the leaking component. This may involve replacing seals and gaskets, or replacing the entire part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, low oil level warning light, burning oil smell. Common leak points include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

• Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, hard shifts, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and adaptation reset can help. More severe cases require a valve body rebuild or replacement, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid change) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when turning. Warning lights related to ARS. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific ARS component that has failed (hydraulic pump, control valve, sway bar actuator). Replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+, depending on the failed component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Car sitting unevenly, compressor running constantly, suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system (air struts, compressor, valve block, air lines). Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+, depending on the failed component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after a short period of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic drain. Common culprits include the comfort access system, iDrive system, and various control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response, screen flickering, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control module, or replacement of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles not unlocking or locking, key not being recognized.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle sensor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per door handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Top not opening or closing properly, error messages on the iDrive screen.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the hydraulic system, sensors, and motors. Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jams or is slow to operate.
  • Solution: Clean sunroof tracks and lubricate components with specified grease.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 BMW 650Ci, while a luxurious and sporty vehicle, is known for its potential maintenance issues. Engine oil leaks, valve stem seal failures, and coolant leaks are common, leading to significant repair costs. Electrical issues related to the iDrive system, battery drain, and comfort access system can also be problematic. Suspension problems, especially with the Active Roll Stabilization system, can affect handling and comfort. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.