2010 BMW 650i

The 2010 BMW 650i is a grand touring coupe and convertible known for its luxurious features, powerful engine, and sporty handling. It came standard with a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. While it provided a comfortable and stylish driving experience, some owners have reported specific issues that are important to consider. Many people enjoy the styling and comfortable ride of the 650i, but potential downsides include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the car’s age potentially leading to more frequent issues. The available transmission options were a 6-speed manual and 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, oil pan gasket, or the alternator bracket gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals. For valve cover gaskets, a common preventative measure is to replace the bolts at the same time due to stretching.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points, including the water pump, radiator hoses, expansion tank, and the “valley pan” located under the intake manifold. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component. The valley pan replacement is a more involved repair requiring removal of the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator failure is a potential issue, leading to a dead battery, warning lights on the dashboard, and eventually the car not starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 6HP26 transmission can experience valve body issues, leading to harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete loss of gear engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. Some shops offer a rebuild service, while others will only offer a full replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and whether the valve body is rebuilt or replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings are prone to wear and tear, resulting in clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. It can also affect alignment and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per side, depending on whether just the bushings or the entire control arm is replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with ARS, the system can develop leaks or failures in the hydraulic pump or actuators, leading to a loss of ARS function, warning lights on the dashboard, and potentially affecting handling.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the faulty components (pump, actuators, or hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the specific component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience software glitches, display malfunctions, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the iDrive control unit or screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car is left unused for extended periods. This can be caused by various modules not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic drain and repair or replace the faulty component causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain and the required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Malfunctions (Convertible Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience issues, such as getting stuck, failing to open or close properly, or hydraulic leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the hydraulic pump, cylinders, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck or not open/close properly
  • Solution: Inspection and repair of the sunroof motor, track, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 BMW 650i is a luxurious and powerful car but can be prone to certain issues as it ages. Engine oil and coolant leaks are common and can be costly to repair. The automatic transmission can also experience issues with the valve body. Suspension problems, electrical glitches, and convertible top malfunctions (on the convertible model) are also potential concerns. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the car and address any issues as they arise. Due to the age of this vehicle, repairs should be anticipated and budgeted for.