2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe
The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe is a luxury four-door coupe known for its elegant styling, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. Engine options included a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (640i) and a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (650i). The 650i engine produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. All models came standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car’s luxurious interior, smooth handling, and potent performance. However, some common complaints include electrical issues, reliability concerns, and high maintenance costs.
Engine
4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (N63)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets. This can lead to oil consumption, low oil levels, and potential engine damage. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing chain cover gasket.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often from the coolant transfer pipe or expansion tank. This can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking coolant components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The twin-turbochargers can experience issues such as oil leaks, bearing failure, or wastegate malfunction. Symptoms include reduced power, unusual noises, and check engine lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+ for turbocharger replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can manifest as a noticeable “clunk” or a hesitation when accelerating.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for fluid flush and software update. $2,000 - $5,000+ for valve body or rebuild.
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Oil Pan Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid from the transmission oil pan. This is common due to the transmission oil pan being made of plastic and the seals failing after exposure to heat cycles and normal wear and tear.
- Solution: Replacement of the transmission oil pan with new fluid and filter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ depending on labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: If equipped with air suspension, components such as the air struts and air compressor can fail. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, and warning lights.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts or air compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut or compressor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software/reset. $1,000 - $3,000+ for control unit replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to starting problems, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently.
- Solution: Identifying and resolving the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing and replacing faulty modules or components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Failures of various sensors, such as oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, or wheel speed sensors. Symptoms include check engine lights, poor performance, or malfunctioning safety systems.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor depending on the type and location.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The door handles may sometimes fail to operate properly, becoming stuck or unresponsive.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door handles.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+ depending on labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close, unusual noises, or leaks.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, while offering a luxurious driving experience, has some reliability concerns. The most common issues revolve around the engine (oil leaks and coolant leaks), transmission (rough shifting), electrical system (iDrive malfunctions and battery drain), and suspension. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. The estimated cost to fix these problems can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the repair needed. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.