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2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe is a high-performance luxury sedan that blends BMW’s engineering with Alpina’s unique styling and tuning. It was only offered in the North American Market with one engine option, a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine producing 540 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the B6 for its luxurious interior, exceptional performance, and refined driving experience. However, like any vehicle, it can be prone to certain issues. Dislikes sometimes include the higher running costs associated with a high-performance vehicle and potential maintenance complexities.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing gasket. This can result in oil spots on the driveway, a burning oil smell, or low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the severity and location of the leak.
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience failures, leading to reduced power, unusual noises (whining or whistling), and potentially smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ depending on if one or both turbos need replacement.
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, the water pump, or the expansion tank. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses or the faulty water pump/expansion tank.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source and complexity of the repair.

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, especially during cold starts or when shifting between certain gears. Can also lead to transmission slippage.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter can provide temporary relief.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and whether the valve body is rebuilt or replaced.
  • Mechatronic Unit Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to valve body issues, but can also cause complete transmission failure or the inability to shift.
    • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sags on one or more corners, the air compressor runs excessively, or a suspension warning light illuminates.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air strut(s) or the air compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per corner for strut replacement; $800 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even with the car turned off.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw, which could be caused by a faulty module, wiring harness issue, or aftermarket accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue and the labor involved in diagnosing it.
  • Sensor Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor) can fail, leading to poor engine performance, check engine lights, and emissions issues.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the type and location.

Exterior

  • Adaptive Headlight Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights fail to function properly (not turning or leveling), or the motors that control them make excessive noise.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty headlight assembly or the individual motors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per headlight assembly.

Interior

  • iDrive System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system freezes, crashes, or experiences glitches. The navigation system may also malfunction.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the cause and complexity of the repair.

Recalls

  • Recall Number: 17V-219
    • Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 BMW 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M5, M6, X5 xDrive50i, X6 xDrive50i, and 2014-2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe and Alpina B7 xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles may have a battery positive (B+) cable connection at the front power distribution box that may not be properly attached.
    • Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the B+ cable connection at the front power distribution box, correcting it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
  • Recall Number: 18V-755
    • Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2017 X5 sDrive35i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive50i, 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d, 2015-2016 X5 M, and 2016 X5 xDrive40e vehicles. Also being recalled are certain 2013-2019 X6 sDrive35i, X6 xDrive35i, X6 xDrive50i, 2015-2019 X6 M, and 2014-2019 X6 xDrive35d vehicles. And, certain 2014-2019 535d, 535d xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, 2014-2016 528i, 528i xDrive, and 2015 Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles may have a brake booster vacuum hose that may degrade over time.
    • Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vacuum hose and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Summary

The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe, while offering exceptional performance and luxury, can suffer from some common issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems are some of the more costly potential repairs, while electrical issues and suspension problems can also be significant expenses. The recalls should be addressed promptly. Overall, while not necessarily widespread, the potential for relatively expensive repairs should be considered by prospective buyers.

BMW, Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe
BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe 2015
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