2012 BMW 550i

2012 BMW 550i

The 2012 BMW 550i is a luxury sedan powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It is available with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 550i is praised for its exceptional performance, handling, and luxurious interior, but it has received some criticism for its high price and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, causing visible oil stains on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Wastegate Actuator Failure: The turbocharger wastegate actuator can fail, leading to reduced engine power and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger wastegate actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Sleeve Failure: The mechatronic sleeve can fail, causing shifting problems, transmission slipping, and loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replace mechatronic sleeve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mounts: The front strut mounts can wear out prematurely, causing clunking noises and reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, resulting in loss of electrical power and a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Discharge: The battery can discharge prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: Replace battery and investigate potential parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Fogging: The headlights can fog up due to moisture accumulation, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replace headlights or have them resealed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Malfunctions: The navigation system can experience glitches and malfunctions, including freezing, crashing, or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of navigation module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rearview Camera Failure: The rearview camera can fail, resulting in a blank screen or distorted images.
  • Solution: Replace rearview camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 BMW 550i is a high-performance luxury sedan that offers impressive performance and handling. However, it has received reports of several issues, including engine leaks, turbocharger problems, transmission issues, suspension wear, electrical malfunctions, and interior electronics problems. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.