2017 BMW 650i

The 2017 BMW 650i is a luxury grand tourer that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style. It was available in coupe, convertible (Cabriolet), and four-door coupe (Gran Coupe) body styles. The main engine option for the 650i is a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine, which produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. People often praise the 650i for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and smooth ride. Some common complaints include its high price tag, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs. While the 640i came with a turbocharged inline-6, this response will focus solely on the 650i with the V8 engine. A ZF 8-speed automatic transmission was standard.

Engine

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 (N63TU2)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals. Inspect and replace turbocharger oil lines if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the coolant transfer pipe (also known as the “valley pan” coolant leak) which is located between the cylinder heads underneath the intake manifold. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the coolant transfer pipe and related gaskets. This often requires removing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system, critical for optimizing engine performance and efficiency, can experience issues with the solenoids. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased fuel economy, loss of power, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes often point to VANOS solenoid malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s). It’s often recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per solenoid, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP Automatic (8HP70)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear or during downshifts. Hesitation or slippage during gear changes.
  • Solution: First, check and replace the transmission fluid and filter. If the problem persists, valve body issues or internal transmission damage may require professional diagnosis and repair or replacement. A software reflash may also be a potential solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid change $300 - $600, valve body repair $1,500 - $3,000+, transmission replacement $5,000 - $8,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can fail, leading to erratic shifting, limp mode, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with air suspension, the system may experience issues such as compressor failure, air leaks in the air springs, or ride height sensor malfunctions. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a sagging suspension, or warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air compressor, air springs, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain leading to a dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period. Possible causes include a faulty control module not going into sleep mode, an aftermarket electrical accessory drawing excessive power, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Replace the battery if it is faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for diagnosis, plus the cost of parts and labor for the specific repair. New battery $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the iDrive module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for software updates, $1,000 - $3,000+ for module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access door handles (if equipped) can fail, preventing the door from unlocking or locking properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the electric seat motors, preventing adjustment of the seats.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW 650i, while a desirable vehicle, has several potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine-related problems, particularly oil and coolant leaks, are relatively common and can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues such as rough shifting can also occur. Electrical gremlins, especially those affecting the iDrive system, can be frustrating. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost of repairs can be significant. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic experienced with BMWs to identify any existing or potential problems.