2014 BMW 650i
The 2014 BMW 650i is a luxury grand tourer available in coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe (four-door coupe) body styles. The 650i came standard with a potent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included an 8-speed automatic. Some owners appreciate the 650i for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include its high price tag, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.
Engine
4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (N63TU)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from valve cover gaskets, turbocharger oil lines, or the rear main seal. Can result in low oil levels, burning oil smell, and eventually engine damage if left unattended.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. In severe cases, turbocharger replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various points, including the water pump, radiator hoses, or the coolant expansion tank. Can lead to overheating and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking components (hoses, water pump, or expansion tank).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and a check engine light with codes related to fuel injectors.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per injector
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration, especially from a standstill.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ (depending on the repair needed)
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak originating from the mechatronic unit sleeve, which is located where the wiring harness connects to the transmission. Can cause shifting problems and low transmission fluid.
- Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and topping off the transmission fluid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive Damper Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Error messages related to the adaptive suspension system. Stiff or uneven ride quality. Noticeable clunking noises from the suspension.
- Solution: Diagnosing the faulty damper(s) and replacing them. Could also be related to a faulty control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Solution: Diagnosing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessories). Repairing or replacing the affected component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or slow response times from the iDrive infotainment system. Navigation issues.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the iDrive module may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models Only)
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the convertible top. Noises during operation. Leaks.
- Solution: Diagnosing the source of the problem (e.g., hydraulic pump, sensors, linkages). Repairing or replacing the affected components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat no longer moves in one or more directions. Grinding noises during seat adjustment.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Leaks around the sunroof.
- Solution: Inspect and clean the sunroof tracks. Repair or replace the sunroof motor, regulator, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 BMW 650i offers a blend of luxury and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks are prevalent, particularly with the N63TU engine, and transmission problems, especially with the ZF 8HP transmission, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, such as battery drains and iDrive problems, can also be frustrating. Suspension and interior problems, while less common, can still contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Overall, while many issues are minor, the potential for significant repairs, particularly related to the engine and transmission, means prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified BMW mechanic.