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2020 BMW M850i xDrive

The 2020 BMW M850i xDrive is a luxury grand tourer that combines performance and comfort. It is equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. It only comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include its high price point, some infotainment complexity, and running costs.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations including valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and the smell of burning oil.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, particularly from the coolant lines or expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking coolant lines or expansion tank.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed driving or when downshifting.
    • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. In other cases, transmission service or replacement of valve body components may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers may fail, leading to a rough ride or error messages on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (iDrive) can experience glitches, freezing, or random reboots.
    • Solution: Software updates, or in severe cases, replacement of the iDrive system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, tire pressure sensors) may malfunction, causing error messages or inaccurate readings.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Automatic Trunk/Hatch Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The automatic trunk or hatch may fail to open or close properly.
    • Solution: Replacing the trunk/hatch struts, motor, or sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors may fail, preventing proper seat adjustment.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 BMW M850i xDrive presents a mix of potential issues ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant mechanical problems. While the infotainment system and sensor issues are generally less severe and less costly, engine oil leaks, transmission roughness, and adaptive damper malfunctions can be more expensive to address. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into the overall cost of ownership. Thorough inspection and maintenance history checks are recommended before purchasing a used model.

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