"Is the 5 Serisi 550i reliable, and what should you check?"
The most frequently mentioned issue when buying a used BMW 5 Series 550i 2011 (F07 / F10 / F10M / F11): Excessive oil consumption. Also, injectors, misfires, and carbon buildup are commonly reported.
Engine: N63
N63B44A · 550i · Used in this car from 2011-2011
Strengths
Provides hurricane-like dynamics
Great tuning potential
Watch-outs
Quite high fuel consumption
Early versions have many problems
Very picky about fuel and oil
Known engine issues
Early year problemsThe first engine modifications caused a lot of trouble: rapid wear of bearings, peeling coating in cylinders, short life of timing chains, and even bursting spark plugs. However, it should be noted that all defective components were replaced under warranty without issue.
Oil consumptionThe majority of owner complaints on specialized forums are related to oil consumption. The culprits are usually stuck piston rings or hardened valve stem seals, but sometimes the cause can be a faulty crankcase ventilation system.
Coolant leaksIn some operating modes, this engine forces coolant out of the reservoir and it leaks directly onto the coils and injectors, which usually leads to serious breakdowns. Therefore, purchasing a plastic deflector to divert antifreeze is highly recommended.
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
Excessive oil consumption
Often reported
Abnormal oil consumption in the 550i's N63 engine (4.4 V8 turbo) is widely reported, requiring frequent oil top-ups.
Engine Internal
Injectors, misfires, and carbon buildup
Often reported
Due to direct injection and N63 characteristics, injector clogging/failure and ignition issues lead to misfires, power loss, and rough running. Direct injection also causes carbon buildup on intake valves.
Fuel System
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures
Often reported
The high-pressure fuel pump in the N63 engine is critical; failures can cause rail pressure loss, hard starting, stalling, and limp mode.
Fuel System
Turbo and gasket failures
Often reported
The N63 engine may develop issues with turbochargers and gaskets: oil leaks into intake or exhaust, degraded gaskets/seals, and wear on turbine components, causing exhaust smoke, power loss, or abnormal noises.
Turbo
BMW 5 Serisi 550i technical specs
BMW 5 Serisi 550i (2011): boot 440 L; fuel use 11,8 l/100 km (urban 16,9 l/100 km · extra-urban 8,8 l/100 km); 0–100 in 5.4 s.
Boot capacity
440 L
Fuel consumption
11,8 l/100 km (urban 16,9 l/100 km · extra-urban 8,8 l/100 km)
What should I look for when buying a BMW 5 Series 550i?+
When buying a 2011 550i, check the service history, perform a test drive, and inspect engine/transmission warnings. Most commonly reported issues: Excessive oil consumption; Injectors, misfires, and carbon buildup; High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures.
What are the chronic problems of the BMW 5 Series 550i?+
Most commonly reported issues: Excessive oil consumption; Injectors, misfires, and carbon buildup; High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures.
Is the BMW 5 Series 550i reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it is necessary to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 4 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from Difetti fault database records; the source vehicle is verified for brand, fuel type, engine, and generation match with the target vehicle. Topics with insufficient evidence are not displayed.