2016 BMW 550i GT xDrive

The 2016 BMW 550i GT xDrive is a luxury gran turismo offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance. It features a hatchback design for increased cargo space and all-wheel drive for enhanced traction. The most potent engine option available for this model is the 4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8, producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While owners appreciate the vehicle’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine, some common complaints revolve around its complex electronics, higher maintenance costs, and the sometimes polarizing exterior styling.

Engine

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 (N63)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a fairly common issue on the N63 engine, often originating from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, turbocharger oil lines, and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points within the system, including the expansion tank, radiator hoses, and water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The N63 engine utilizes two turbochargers. Issues can include oil leaks in the turbocharger, wastegate malfunction, or complete turbocharger failure. Symptoms may include reduced power, whistling noises, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the turbocharger issue and replacing or repairing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $5000+ for turbocharger replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough shifting, particularly during downshifts, or hesitation when accelerating. This can be attributed to wear in the valve body or solenoids within the transmission.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush and software update) to $2000+ (valve body repair/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve seals the electrical connector on the transmission. Over time, it can leak, causing transmission issues and fluid loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and transmission fluid service.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear air suspension can experience issues such as air leaks in the air springs (bags) or compressor failure. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, uneven ride height, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air spring or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per air spring, $800 - $1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front and rear control arm bushings can wear out, leading to excessive play, clunking noises, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 550i GT xDrive can suffer from excessive battery drain due to various electrical modules not properly shutting down or parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories. Symptoms include a dead battery, slow cranking, or frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system (infotainment system) can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failure. Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues, but hardware problems may require replacement.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $1500+ (iDrive control unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to get stuck open or closed, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW 550i GT xDrive, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, is prone to some common issues. The engine, particularly the 4.4L V8, can suffer from oil and coolant leaks, as well as potential turbocharger problems, leading to potentially costly repairs. The transmission can experience rough shifting, which may require more extensive repair to the valve body. The air suspension is also a known weak point, with potential issues arising from air leaks or compressor failure. Electrical problems can also occur. While some issues may be relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to repair. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.