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2012 BMW 550i

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2012 BMW 550i is a luxury sedan known for its powerful performance and refined driving experience. This model year is part of the F10 5-Series generation. The 2012 550i comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2012 5-Series include the 528i’s 2.0L turbocharged inline-4, the 535i’s 3.0L turbocharged inline-6, and a diesel option in some markets. The 550i was available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the 550i for its potent engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some common complaints revolve around higher maintenance costs due to the complexity of the engine and electronics, and the potential for certain mechanical issues to arise as the car ages.

Engine

N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

  • Oil Leaks (Valve Stem Seals)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue in the N63 engine, particularly with the valve stem seals. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust upon startup (especially after the car has been sitting), and a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The N63 engine’s turbochargers, being located within the engine’s “hot-V,” can suffer from heat-related degradation. Symptoms include a loss of power, turbo whine or other unusual noises, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of one or both turbochargers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: High-pressure fuel injectors in the N63 can fail or leak. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a strong fuel smell.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors, often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Coolant Leaks (Coolant Transfer Pipe)
    • Description/Symptoms: The coolant transfer pipe, often made of plastic, can become brittle and leak with age and heat exposure. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, and a visible coolant leak, sometimes accompanied by a sweet coolant smell.
    • Solution: Replacing the coolant transfer pipe with an updated part, potentially made of metal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Transmission

ZF 6HP26 6-Speed Automatic (If Equipped)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid and can develop issues over time. Symptoms include harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and the transmission going into “limp mode”.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+

ZF 8HP45 8-Speed Automatic (If Equipped)

  • Mechatronic Unit Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which integrates the transmission control unit (TCU) and valve body, can experience failures. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and erratic behavior.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Slipping/Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: General wear and tear or lack of proper maintenance can lead to slipping or rough shifting. This can be due to worn clutch packs, low fluid level, or internal damage.
    • Solution: Transmission service with fluid and filter change; potential for a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with air suspension can experience leaks in the air struts or failure of the air compressor. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, uneven ride height, and a “suspension malfunction” warning light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $600 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Adaptive Drive Malfunctions (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The Adaptive Drive system, which includes active roll stabilization, can experience failures. Symptoms include clunking noises, poor handling, and a warning light on the dash.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the specific component, which could include the hydraulic pump, actuators, or sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component.

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: BMWs are known to be sensitive to low battery voltage. Parasitic drains can cause the battery to discharge quickly, leading to starting problems and other electrical issues.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the parasitic drain. This could involve modules not shutting down properly, faulty sensors, or other electrical components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+

Exterior

  • Door Handle Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access door handles can fail.
    • Solution: Door handle replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power seats can fail, becoming stuck in a single position
    • Solution: Replacement of seat motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Recalls:

  • 14V-176: Fuel Pump Flange may Crack

Summary

The 2012 BMW 550i, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, is prone to certain issues, particularly concerning the N63 engine. Oil leaks, turbocharger failures, and fuel injector problems are common and can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, especially with the 8-speed automatic, can also add to the ownership costs. Suspension problems, particularly with air suspension systems, can lead to further expenses. While some issues are relatively minor, the potential for major repairs should be considered when purchasing a used 2012 550i. Addressing these issues promptly and maintaining the vehicle diligently can help mitigate future problems, but the overall cost of ownership is likely to be higher than that of some other vehicles in its class.

BMW, 550i
BMW 550i 2012
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