2016 BMW 550i xDrive
The 2016 BMW 550i xDrive is a luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sophisticated technology. The xDrive indicates that this model features all-wheel drive. The 550i specifically comes equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2016 5 Series lineup include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (528i), a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (535i), and a diesel 2.0-liter four-cylinder (535d). Transmission options for the 550i are an 8-speed automatic. People generally appreciate the 550i xDrive for its strong acceleration, composed handling, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and potential for expensive repairs, and the complexity of the iDrive infotainment system for some users.
Engine
4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (N63TU)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a known issue with the N63TU engine. The valve cover gaskets and turbocharger oil lines are common leak points. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil puddles under the car, and a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or turbocharger oil lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ depending on the shop rate and parts needed.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur at various points in the cooling system, including the coolant hoses, expansion tank, and water pump. Overheating and low coolant level warnings are symptoms.
- Solution: Replace the leaking components, such as hoses, expansion tank, or water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the shop rate and parts needing replacement
- Recalls: None Found
- High Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: The N63TU engine, particularly in its earlier iterations, is known for potentially high oil consumption. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between oil changes.
- Solution: Monitor oil levels closely. In severe cases, piston ring replacement might be necessary, although this is a very costly and involved repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Monitoring Oil is free, Piston ring replacement is $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or hesitant shifting, particularly during lower gears. This can also include clunking noises during shifts.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush and software update $300-500, Valve body repair $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported torque converter shudder or vibration, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration. This can feel like a hesitation or “rumbling” from the transmission.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with air suspension, common issues include leaking air springs, a malfunctioning air compressor, and height sensor failures. Symptoms include uneven ride height, a bouncy ride, and warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the faulty air springs, air compressor, or height sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per component depending on what needs to be replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
- Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers (if equipped) can fail, leading to a harsh or unpredictable ride. Symptoms include a warning light on the dashboard and a noticeable change in ride quality.
- Solution: Replace the faulty adaptive dampers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper, depending on the brand and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain is a relatively common issue in BMWs. Symptoms include difficulty starting the car, a dead battery after a short period of inactivity, and various electrical system malfunctions.
- Solution: Identify and address the source of the parasitic drain. This can involve checking for faulty modules, wiring issues, or accessories that are not shutting down properly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue and the shop rate.
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience various glitches, including freezing, slow response times, and software errors.
- Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, the iDrive control unit might need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update may be free or low cost, replacing the unit $500-$1,500
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Sensors
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle can fail, leading to warning lights on the dashboard and incorrect readings. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and wheel speed sensors.
- Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the sensor and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights (if equipped) can experience issues such as not leveling properly or failing to turn in corners.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty headlight components, such as the stepper motors or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight, depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Comfort Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the seats can become uncomfortable on long drives.
- Solution: Adjust seat settings or replace the seats if desired
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is susceptible to several common issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly oil leaks and rough shifting, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions, can also be a nuisance. Suspension issues, particularly those related to air suspension systems, can also be costly. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of potential repairs and maintenance when considering purchasing a 2016 BMW 550i xDrive. Addressing these issues early can prevent more significant problems down the line.