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2011 BMW 550i

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By Research the Car 1 min read

Introduction:

The 2011 BMW 550i is a high-performance luxury sedan powered by a standard 4.4L N63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Loved for its impressive power, refined handling, and luxurious interior, the 550i has also faced criticism for potential reliability issues.

Engine

  • N63 4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8:

  • Valve Stem Seal Failure: Oil consumption and leaks due to failing valve stem seals. Replaced with updated valve stem seals. $1500 - $3000+. Recall: 15V-358
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure: Engine performance issues, loss of power, and stalling. Replaced with an improved fuel pump. $1000 - $1500+. Recall: 14V-277
  • Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle: Metallic rattling noise during acceleration. Replaced with updated wastegates. $500 - $1000.

Transmission

  • 8-Speed Automatic Transmission:

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Failure: Transmission slipping or shuddering during gear changes. Replaced with an updated mechatronic sleeve. $2500 - $4000. Recall: 15V-517

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Wear: Clunking or knocking noises over bumps and rough roads. Replaced with new bushings. $250 - $500 per side.
  • Rear Shock Absorber Failure: Loss of ride comfort, bumpy ride. Replaced with new shock absorbers. $300 - $600 per side.

Electrical

  • Electrical Harness Short Circuit: Electrical malfunctions, power loss, or even smoke. Replaced with new harness. $500 - $2000+. Recall: 12V-077
  • ECU Software Issues: Engine performance problems, unexpected behavior. Updated ECU software. No cost if under warranty.

Exterior

  • Sunroof Panel Cracking: Sunroof glass panel cracking due to stress. Replaced with a reinforced panel. $1000 - $1500.
  • Headlight Malfunction: Failure of headlights or daytime running lights. Replaced with new headlight assembly. $500 - $1000.

Interior

  • Instrument Cluster Failure: Loss of display or incorrect readings. Replaced with a new instrument cluster. $500 - $1000.
  • Climate Control Failure: Malfunctioning climate control system, air conditioning not blowing. Replaced with a new climate control unit. $300 - $600.

Summary:

The 2011 BMW 550i is a performance-oriented vehicle with a number of potential reliability concerns. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others like engine problems and transmission issues can be costly. Potential owners should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the potential repair costs when considering the purchase of this vehicle.

BMW, 550i
BMW 550i 2011
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