2016 BMW 650i xDrive

The 2016 BMW 650i xDrive is a luxury grand tourer known for its blend of performance, comfort, and style. The primary engine option is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. While a popular vehicle, some owners have reported issues. Owners often praise the car’s powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, common complaints include high maintenance costs, potential for electronic glitches, and the complexity of the systems, which can lead to expensive repairs.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (N63)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. This can result in a burning oil smell, low oil levels, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the coolant expansion tank, radiator hoses, or water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components (expansion tank, hoses, water pump).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers on the N63 engine can experience failures, leading to reduced power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potential check engine lights.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+ (per turbocharger)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 8HP transmission can experience issues with the valve body, leading to harsh shifting, slipping, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $6000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and whether it’s a rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Sleeve Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks can occur at the mechatronic sleeve where the wiring harness enters the transmission. This can cause transmission malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and associated seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, if equipped, can experience failures in the air struts, air compressor, or air lines. This can lead to a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, or a suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace the failed air struts, air compressor, or repair/replace leaking air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ (per strut or component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive dampers (electronically controlled shocks) can fail, resulting in a poor ride quality, clunking noises, or a suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace the failed adaptive dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (per damper)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various electrical issues, such as a faulty module not shutting down properly, parasitic draws, or a failing battery. This can lead to a dead battery and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module, repairing wiring, or replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, crankshaft position sensors) can fail, leading to check engine lights, poor performance, or other issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles, particularly the comfort access handles, can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per handle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can experience failures, leading to difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW 650i xDrive, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, presents owners with several potential issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks, turbocharger problems, and transmission valve body issues are among the more significant concerns, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical glitches, suspension failures, and sunroof problems can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but owners should be prepared for potentially expensive maintenance and repairs.