2018 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe

The 2018 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe is a high-performance luxury sedan that blends BMW’s engineering prowess with Alpina’s bespoke craftsmanship. It is offered with a single engine option: a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the B6 for its blistering acceleration, refined ride quality, luxurious interior, and exclusivity. Criticisms can include its high price tag, complex electronics, and potential for expensive maintenance.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal. Proper torqueing of bolts during reassembly is crucial.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on the location and complexity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the leaking component. Inspect hoses for cracks or swelling and replace as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the location and complexity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, especially during low-speed acceleration or downshifting.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, a transmission fluid flush and filter change may be necessary. In severe cases, internal transmission repairs or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $7,000+ (depending on the severity and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, responsible for controlling the transmission’s hydraulic system, can sometimes fail. Symptoms include erratic shifting, loss of gears, and transmission malfunction warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit and potentially a transmission fluid flush and filter change.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Some models might be equipped with air suspension. Issues can include air leaks, compressor failure, or ride height sensor malfunctions. This can lead to uneven ride height, a harsh ride, or a suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak and replace the faulty air spring, compressor, or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (per component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, especially when the car is not driven for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair any parasitic draws. This may involve tracing wiring harnesses and replacing faulty modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can sometimes malfunction, leading to error messages and improper aiming.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the headlight module or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (per headlight)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat motors can sometimes fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ (per seat)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe, while offering a thrilling driving experience, can be prone to certain issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks, transmission issues, and electrical malfunctions are among the most common concerns. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely, but potential buyers should be aware that maintaining this high-performance vehicle can be expensive. Many of the issues are on the more severe side, so it is important to keep up with maintenance.