2017 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe

The 2017 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe is a high-performance luxury sedan based on the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. It features a hand-finished interior, unique styling elements, and a significantly upgraded powertrain. The sole engine option for the 2017 Alpina B6 is a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car’s combination of blistering performance, luxurious interior, and relatively understated appearance. Criticisms tend to center on the high cost of maintenance and repairs, and the complexity of the BMW infotainment system.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and oil pan gasket. The leaks can be minor drips or more significant, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or component. Thorough cleaning of the engine bay is recommended to identify the source accurately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, reduced power, and potential turbocharger failure. Common causes include damaged turbo seals or turbine blades.
  • Solution: Inspect the turbochargers for damage or leaks. Replacement of the turbochargers is often necessary in cases of failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+ (for turbocharger replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the coolant expansion tank or hose connections.
  • Solution: Pressure test the cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to check for valve body issues or internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (fluid and filter change), $1500 - $4000+ (valve body or transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between shifting into gear and the car actually moving.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to check for valve body issues or internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (fluid and filter change), $1500 - $4000+ (valve body or transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Alpina B6 is equipped with an air suspension, and leaks can occur from the air springs, compressor, or air lines. This can lead to a sagging suspension, a rough ride, and error messages on the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak using a soapy water test or other diagnostic methods. Replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers can fail, leading to a loss of damping control and a degraded ride. This may trigger warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ (per damper)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the iDrive module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 (software updates), $1000 - $3000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as those for the parking assist system, tire pressure monitoring system, or ambient temperature, can fail and trigger warning lights.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid battery drain, especially if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Identify and address any parasitic drains on the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (battery replacement), $100 - $1000+ (diagnosing and fixing parasitic drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlight failures.
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ (per headlight assembly)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close, excessive noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks and motor. Lubricate or replace damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe, while a performance and luxury marvel, can be prone to certain issues. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and transmission concerns are significant and can be expensive. Electrical system glitches and sensor malfunctions can also be frustrating. These issues suggest potential repair costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars, making thorough inspection and maintenance crucial for ownership.