2015 BMW 650i

The 2015 BMW 650i is a luxury grand tourer known for its powerful engine, elegant styling, and comfortable ride. It came in coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe (four-door coupe) body styles. The 650i is primarily powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Some drivers appreciate the 650i’s potent acceleration, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. Conversely, some criticisms include the car’s high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to issues, and rear seat space in the coupe models. The 650i came with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (N63TU)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct fuel injectors on the N63TU engine can sometimes fail or become clogged. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+ depending on how many need to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The cooling system components, such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses, can fail over time. Overheating, coolant leaks, and engine damage can result.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed component and thorough inspection of the entire cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 8HP transmission, while generally reliable, can experience issues with the valve body. Symptoms may include harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and a transmission malfunction warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the mechatronic unit seal on the transmission. Symptoms include loss of transmission fluid, poor shifting, and transmission malfunction warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The 650i is often equipped with adaptive dampers (Dynamic Damper Control). These dampers can sometimes fail, resulting in a harsh or uneven ride, suspension noise, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per damper, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience software glitches, screen freezing, and connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, module reprogramming, or component replacement (screen, controller).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to faulty modules or parasitic draws in the electrical system. This can lead to a dead battery and starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the source of the drain and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Convertible models can experience problems with the operation of the convertible top, including slow operation, failure to open or close completely, and hydraulic leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of hydraulic components, sensors, or the convertible top motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats can experience issues with their motors, resulting in the seat not moving in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 BMW 650i offers a blend of performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine oil leaks, fuel injector problems, and cooling system failures are concerns. Transmission valve body issues can also be costly to address. Adaptive damper malfunctions and electrical glitches can also occur. Overall, the 2015 BMW 650i can be a rewarding car to own, but it’s essential to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase and to budget for potential repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs, with costs potentially ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.