2018 BMW 650i xDrive

The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive is a grand touring coupe/convertible known for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. The 650i xDrive comes equipped with a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine, producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners praise the car’s strong acceleration, refined interior, and advanced technology features. Common criticisms include high maintenance costs, a complex infotainment system, and a somewhat disconnected driving experience compared to sportier BMW models. The 2018 650i xDrive is the only powertrain option available for this vehicle.

Engine

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the coolant expansion tank, hoses, or water pump. Symptoms include low coolant level warnings, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly when the transmission is cold. This can be caused by wear in the transmission or issues with the valve body.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid replacement might help, but in more severe cases, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $6000+ (rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers (if equipped) can sometimes fail, leading to a noticeable change in ride quality, suspension noise, or warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty damper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezing, or complete failures.
  • Solution: Restarting the system or updating the software may resolve the issue. In some cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (restart/update) - $1500+ (control unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Have the battery tested and replaced if necessary. Also, check for parasitic draws on the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (battery replacement), $100 - $500+ (diagnosing and fixing parasitic draw).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can experience issues such as failing to self-level or not turning properly. This can trigger warning lights and reduce visibility at night.
  • Solution: Diagnose the headlight issue and replace any faulty components (motors, sensors, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+, depending on the specific issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors can sometimes fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive offers a luxurious and powerful driving experience, but it’s not without its potential issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems are common concerns that can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical system glitches, especially with the iDrive system, can also be frustrating. Suspension issues can also arise. While some issues may be relatively minor, others can be expensive to fix, potentially making the overall cost of ownership higher than expected. Addressing these issues preemptively can mitigate long-term expenses.