2015 BMW 650i
Introduction
The 2015 BMW 650i is a luxurious grand tourer that combines performance, style, and comfort. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that delivers 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 650i has received praise for its powerful engine, sharp handling, and comfortable interior, but some owners have also reported various issues.
Engine
N63 Twin-Turbocharged 4.4L V8
- Intake Valve Coking
- Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on intake valves reduces airflow and causes engine misfires, loss of power, and rough idle.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing the intake valves.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Pan Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Leak from the oil pan gasket causes oil to drip, which can lead to low oil levels and engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the oil pan gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 8-Speed Automatic
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts erratically or fails to engage gears, causing loss of power and sudden acceleration.
- Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder felt during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Control Arm Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Worn or torn bushings cause knocking or rattling noises from the front end and reduced handling stability.
- Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Subframe Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive rear-end vibration and noise, especially on uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Inspecting and replacing the rear subframe bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Driver’s Seat Occupancy Sensor Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminates, and the seat belt tensioner does not engage properly.
- Solution: Replacing the driver’s seat occupancy sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of air conditioning or heating, or noisy blower motor.
- Solution: Replacing the HVAC blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside the headlight lenses, reducing light output.
- Solution: Replacing the headlight unit or sealing any leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Trunk Lid Seal Tear
- Description/Symptoms: Leak or wind noise from the trunk area due to a torn or damaged seal.
- Solution: Replacing the trunk lid seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Steering Wheel Cover Peeling
- Description/Symptoms: Peeling or cracking of the leather cover on the steering wheel.
- Solution: Replacing the steering wheel cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Center Console Trim Scratching
- Description/Symptoms: Fine scratches appearing on the center console trim, reducing its aesthetic appeal.
- Solution: Replacing or repairing the center console trim.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 BMW 650i is a high-performance vehicle that offers plenty of power, luxury, and refinement. However, owners have reported a number of issues, some of which can be costly to fix. The most common problems seem to be related to the engine (intake valve coking, oil pan leak), transmission (mechatronic unit failure, torque converter shudder), and suspension (control arm bushings, rear subframe bushings). While these issues are not universal, they are worth considering before purchasing or owning a 650i.