2019 BMW M550i xDrive
The 2019 BMW M550i xDrive is a performance-oriented mid-size sedan that blends luxury with impressive power. It came equipped with a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine, producing 456 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. All models are all-wheel drive and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise its rapid acceleration, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. Common complaints often revolve around the high cost of maintenance, potential electrical gremlins, and occasional issues with the advanced technology features.
Engine
4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are sometimes reported, often originating from valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the leak location and shop rates.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are also common.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking part
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the leak location and shop rates.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or hesitant shifting, particularly at lower speeds or during cold starts. This can manifest as jerky movements or delays when changing gears. In some cases, adaptive transmission learning can be negatively impacted.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update or transmission adaptation reset can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission repair may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 for software updates to $3000+ for valve body replacement or major repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive Damper Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the adaptive dampers can arise, leading to a less comfortable ride, uneven handling, or error messages on the dashboard. In some cases, dampers may start leaking.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty dampers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per damper, depending on location and labor rates.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors, oxygen sensors, or tire pressure sensors, may malfunction, leading to warning lights and potentially affecting vehicle performance.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the sensor and location.
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezing, or connectivity problems. Software updates are usually required.
- Solution: Performing a software update or, in more severe cases, replacing the iDrive unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software updates (if covered under warranty or DIY) to $1000+ for iDrive unit replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly or if there is an electrical fault.
- Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, parasitic draw) or replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain and battery replacement cost.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- No Issues Found
Summary
The 2019 BMW M550i xDrive is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners. While not every vehicle will experience these problems, issues like oil leaks, transmission roughness, sensor malfunctions, and electrical gremlins are worth considering. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but some repairs can be quite expensive, particularly those related to the suspension or infotainment system. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.