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BMW 550I (2006–2016) Manual — Codes, Tyres & Parts
Built 2006–2016 · all production years covered on this single page
4.4L V8 Twin-Turbo N63 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair costn/a
Parts & repairability4.6
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & support6.6
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Bmw 550I (2006–2016) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Bmw 550I (2006–2016) uses BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30 engine oil. Its battery is group H7 (BCI), rated at 760A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 4.4L V8 Twin-Turbo N63 engine. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (19)
NHTSA 15V188000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 31/03/2015
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light. As such, the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Fede…
NHTSA 15V188000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 31/03/2015
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light. As such, the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Fede…
NHTSA 15V718000
Child Seat
Date: 30/10/2015
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2016 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 535d xDrive, M5, 550i, 550i xDrive, and 535d sedans. The affected vehicles have an inboard lower anchor for child restraints on the left rear seat that may have been bent d…
NHTSA 16V914000
Air Bags
Date: 20/12/2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4…
NHTSA 18V248000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger
Date: 18/04/2018
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (J…
NHTSA 18V248000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger
Date: 18/04/2018
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (J…
NHTSA 16V832000
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Date: 17/11/2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 BMW 528i, 528xi, 535i, 535xi, 550i and 550xi vehicles manufactured March 1, 2010, through August 31, 2011. The affected vehicles may have received a replacement Sensor Cluster Unit (SCU) during a service visit.…
NHTSA 16V746000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 17/10/2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo…
NHTSA 16V746000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 17/10/2016
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo…
NHTSA 13V564000
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification
Date: 12/11/2013
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi spor…
NHTSA 13V564000
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification
Date: 12/11/2013
BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi spor…
NHTSA 07V479000
Engine And Engine Cooling
Date: 12/10/2007
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES, IN CONDITIONS OF BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES COMBINED WITH LOW HUMIDITY, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE TO OCCUR AT THE FUEL RAILS. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE ENGINE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) COULD BE AFFECTED SO THAT…
NHTSA 07V479000
Engine And Engine Cooling
Date: 12/10/2007
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES, IN CONDITIONS OF BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES COMBINED WITH LOW HUMIDITY, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE TO OCCUR AT THE FUEL RAILS. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE ENGINE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) COULD BE AFFECTED SO THAT…
NHTSA 07V479000
Engine And Engine Cooling
Date: 12/10/2007
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES, IN CONDITIONS OF BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES COMBINED WITH LOW HUMIDITY, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE TO OCCUR AT THE FUEL RAILS. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE ENGINE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) COULD BE AFFECTED SO THAT…
NHTSA 13V407000
Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights
Date: 11/09/2013
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housin…
NHTSA 13V407000
Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights
Date: 11/09/2013
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housin…
NHTSA 13V407000
Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights
Date: 11/09/2013
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housin…
NHTSA 24V527000
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module
Date: 11/07/2024
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 …
NHTSA 17V428000
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification
Date: 06/07/2017
BMW of North America, Inc. (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, and 550i vehicles equipped with the Sport Seat option and certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i vehicles with standard seats. The front passenger seat occupant de…
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
Powertrain
P0171
System Too Lean Bank 1
Powertrain
P0300
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
Coolant Thermostat Below Regulating Temperature
Powertrain
P0455
EVAP System Leak Detected (Gross Leak)
Powertrain
P0700
Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
Powertrain
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1555
powertrain
CRITICALP1553
powertrain
MODERATEP1525
powertrain
HIGHP1521
powertrain
HIGHP1397
powertrain
HIGHP1396
powertrain
HIGHP1352
powertrain
HIGHP1348
powertrain
HIGHP1347
powertrain
HIGHP1346
powertrain
HIGHP1188
powertrain
HIGHP1085
powertrain
MODERATEP1084
powertrain
MODERATEP1083
powertrain
MODERATEP1755
powertrain
MODERATEP1612
powertrain
HIGHP1570
powertrain
CRITICALP1086
powertrain
MODERATEP1519
powertrain
MODERATEP1747
powertrain
HIGH
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
58 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
Run-Flat Warning (BMW) (Bmw)Tyres
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
CBS — Brake Fluid (BMW) (Bmw)Brakes
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
CBS — Oil Service (BMW) (Bmw)Engine
iDrive System Fault (Bmw)Electrical
DSC OFF (BMW) (Bmw)Chassis
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
153 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Bmw 550I across model years 2006–2016. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
1 crash report 13 fires 1 injury
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 201191
Model year 201235
Model year 201315
Model year 20146
Model year 20156
Most reported components (all years)
Engine56
Fuel/Propulsion System32
Electrical System26
Power Train23
Tires21
Wheels13
Sample reports
I WAS REAR ENDED ON THE LEFT SIDE EXITING THE FREEWAY WHEN MY CAR SPUN TO THE RIGHT INTO A GUARDRAIL HEAD ON AND CONTINUED INTO A 360 DEGREE MOTION. THE ROADS WERE CLEAR AND NORMAL WEATHER CONDITIONS. AFTER MY VEHICLE STOPPED SPINNING M… (MY 2011)
THIS IS THE 3RD "RUN FLAT TIRE" WITHIN A 3 MONTH PERIOD THAT COULD NOT RUN FLAT EVEN A MILE. *TR (MY 2012)
"TAKATA RECALL" I HAVE A 2013 BMW 550I XDRIVE M SPORT. IT KEEPS ON MISFIRING ON CYLINDER NUMBER TWO AND I HAVE CHANGED ALL 8 SPARK PLUGS AND THE INJECTOR FOR THAT CYLINDER. I ALSO USED OCTANE BOOSTER AND SEA FOAM TO CLEAN THE CARBON OUT… (MY 2013)
ENGINE INFORMATION CENTER SAYS TO ADD OIL, IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES, NUMEROUS TIMES. CAR SHUT DOWN ON ROAD AND WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. DEALER SAYS THE ENGINE HAS SEIZED. SINCE THE VEHICLE IS JUST OVER THE WARRANTY BY MILES, PAX 500 MILES,… (MY 2011)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2006–2016.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bmw 550i have any safety recalls?
Yes — 19 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0003 mean on the Bmw 550i?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0002 mean on the Bmw 550i?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0001 mean on the Bmw 550i?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are fuel system problems common on the Bmw 550i?
Yes — 28 of 145 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the fuel system. One owner reported: “Vehicle was parked while running errands, returned to leave and it would not start. Went to trunk to check battery connection and found that the positive battery cable had burnt in two where it connec…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Bmw 550i?
Yes — 32 of 145 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “The contact owns a 2011 BMW 550I. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who declined to service…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Bmw 550i?
Yes — 58 of 145 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “The contact owns a 2011 BMW 550I. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who declined to service…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What is the right battery for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016)?
The battery specified for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016) is group H7 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 760A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Bmw 550I (2006–2016)?
The engine oil specification for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016) is BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Bmw 550I (2006–2016) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Bmw 550I (2006–2016) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Bmw 550I (2006–2016)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.