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2011 BMW 650Ci

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues reported for the 2011 BMW 650i, formatted for your website.

The 2011 BMW 650i is a grand touring coupe/convertible that blended luxury with performance. The primary engine option for this model year was a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praised the 650i for its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and elegant styling. However, some common complaints included higher maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for various mechanical issues as the car ages.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (N63)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially around the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and/or lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The direct fuel injectors on the N63 engine can fail, leading to rough running, misfires, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors. It is often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time to ensure balanced performance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points, including the coolant transfer pipe (the “valley pan” under the intake manifold) and the radiator hoses.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ for the valley pan replacement, $200 - $500 for hoses.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

  • Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 6HP26 transmission can experience slipping between gears, harsh shifting, and delayed engagement, especially as mileage increases.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid service (filter and fluid change) may help in some cases. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for fluid service, $800 - $2000 for valve body, $3000 - $6000+ for rebuild/replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Drive/Dynamic Damper Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the adaptive suspension system can cause a rough ride, uneven handling, and error messages on the iDrive system.
    • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue (faulty dampers, control module problems, wiring issues) and replace or repair the affected components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper, $300 - $1000+ for control module/wiring repairs.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system (BMW’s infotainment interface) can experience glitches, freezes, and complete failures.
    • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. More serious problems may require replacement of the iDrive controller or the entire head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software update (if applicable), $500 - $2000+ for component replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to a dead battery, especially if the car is not driven frequently.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain (faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, etc.) and repair or disconnect the problematic component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models Only)
    • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience failures, leading to problems with opening or closing the top. This may involve hydraulic pump failures, sensor issues, or problems with the folding mechanism.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific issue. This may involve replacing the hydraulic pump, sensors, or repairing damaged components of the folding mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors can fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 BMW 650i, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, is prone to certain common issues as it ages. Engine-related problems, particularly oil and coolant leaks on the N63 V8, can be costly to address. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, may also require significant investment. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the iDrive system, are also reported. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in higher maintenance costs when considering a 2011 BMW 650i.

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