2020 BMW M550i xDrive

The 2020 BMW M550i xDrive is a performance-oriented sedan that bridges the gap between the standard 5 Series and the full-fledged M5. It comes equipped with a potent 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine, generating 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission with xDrive all-wheel drive. Owners generally praise the M550i for its blend of luxury, performance, and comfortable daily drivability. Some criticisms revolve around its cost, some of the optional technology features can be complex, and the car’s weight can be felt in tighter corners compared to lighter sports sedans. The only engine option for the 2020 M550i is the 4.4L V8, and the only transmission option is the 8-speed automatic.

Engine

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various seals and gaskets, particularly around the valve covers or oil pan. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals. Thoroughly clean the area to ensure proper sealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur at various points in the system, including hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, low coolant level warnings, and visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking hose, pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the part and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough or hesitant shifting, especially during lower gears. This may be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: A software update from BMW might resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission flush or replacement of the transmission fluid may be necessary. More severe cases could require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $8,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers may fail, leading to a rough or bouncy ride, especially in Comfort mode. Error messages related to the suspension system may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific damper that has failed and replacing it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system may experience glitches, such as freezing, slow response times, or random reboots.
  • Solution: Trying a system reset (holding down the volume knob). If the problem persists, a software update from BMW may be needed. In rare cases, the iDrive unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $1500+ (unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors, or tire pressure sensors, may malfunction.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the faulty sensor and replacing it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: The seats, particularly the driver’s seat, may develop creaks or rattles, especially when adjusting the seating position or driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Tightening the seat bolts or lubricating the seat tracks may resolve the issue. Sometimes replacing the seat frame is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY tightening) - $1000+ (seat frame replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 BMW M550i xDrive generally exhibits relatively reliable performance, but potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of oil and coolant leaks from the engine, rough shifting from the transmission, damper malfunctions, electrical glitches, and interior noises. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the location of the repair. While most issues are not considered catastrophic, addressing them promptly will help maintain the vehicle’s performance and value. The most severe issues will be related to engine and transmission repairs.