2011 BMW 550I — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data
5/5
Safety Rating
144
Owner Complaints
3
Recalls
13
Service Bulletins
0
Investigations
Overview of the 2011 BMW 550I
The 2011 BMW 550I has received a total of 144 safety complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It earned an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program crash tests. There have been 4 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP. 13 technical service bulletins have been issued by BMW of North America, LLC for this model year. The most commonly reported problems involve the Engine (32 complaints), Electrical System (20 complaints), and Fuelpropulsion System (14 complaints).
Recalls for the 2011 BMW 550I
NHTSA has recorded 4 recalls for the 2011 BMW 550I, potentially affecting up to 231,891 vehicles.
Recall 18V248000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
| 47,806 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW...
Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of...
View full details →Recall 18V248000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
| 47,806 vehicles affected
Defect: 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 (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW...
Consequence: If the circuit board were to overheat, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump, free of charge. Depending on the model, there are currently limited parts available, however not all parts are available at this time. Owners will be notified of...
View full details →Recall 16V746000 — FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
| 136,188 vehicles affected
Defect: 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, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive,...
Consequence: The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. The recall began February 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
View full details →Recall 16V832000 — AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
| 91 vehicles affected
Defect: 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. These SCUs have an acceleration sensor that may have been incorrectly programmed and, as a...
Consequence: Depending on the severity of the crash, inadequate activation of the driver and/or passenger air bags, safety belt pre-tensioners and active head restraints may increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the SCU, free of charge. The recall began on December 16, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
View full details →Owner Complaints for the 2011 BMW 550I
144 complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2011 BMW 550I. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 32 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Electrical System | 20 | 0 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| Fuelpropulsion System | 14 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Power Train | 13 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Tires | 12 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Unknown Or Other | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Wheels | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Air Bags | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Electronic Stability Control Esc | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Seat Belts | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Service Brakes | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Structurebody | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitywiper | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Steering | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Air Bagssensoroccupant Classification | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Engine And Engine Coolingcooling System | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasolineturbosupercharger | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fuel System Gasoline | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection System | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Power Traindriveline | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Service Brakes Hydraulicpower Assistvacuum | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Suspension | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitysunmoon Roof Assembly | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Most Recent Complaints
1. TICKING NOISE WHILE CORNERING WITHOUT THE BRAKES APPLIED: Ticking noise coming from front wheel while cornering without brakes applied, noticeable at low speeds. The vehicle must be moving. 2. CRACKING NOISES FROM THE FRONTAXLE AREA WHILE TURNING THE WHEELS, WHEN STATION: Cracking noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or when turning the steering wheel while stationary. I am reporting safety issues that were never addressed by BMW North America, and for which I received no notification. Although I purchased my vehicle used, I registered it with BMW USA. The vehicle is out of warranty, but it is affected by the conditions described in SIB 34 05 17 and SIB 31 01 12. BMW USA is refusing to correct these defects, despite their clear safety implications. I was never informed of these issues by BMW USA.
My 2011 BMW 550i experienced an unexpected fire in my driveway while my wife and I were sleeping. The fire nearly caused our house to catch fire and also resulted in damage to my BMW Z4. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with someone regarding this matter. For your reference, the last seven digits of my VIN are [XXX] . You can reach me at [XXX] or via email at [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My 2011 BMW 550i experienced an unexpected fire in my driveway while my wife and I were sleeping. The fire nearly caused our house to catch fire and also resulted in damage to my BMW Z4. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with someone regarding this matter. For your reference, the last seven digits of my VIN are [XXX] . You can reach me at [XXX] or via email at [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My 2011 BMW 550i experienced an unexpected fire in my driveway while my wife and I were sleeping. The fire nearly caused our house to catch fire and also resulted in damage to my BMW Z4. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with someone regarding this matter. For your reference, the last seven digits of my VIN are [XXX] . You can reach me at [XXX] or via email at [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
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 the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle. No additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Safety Rating for the 2011 BMW 550I
The 2011 BMW 550I received an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
| Test Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Frontal Crash | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Side Crash | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Rollover | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Safety ratings are based on controlled crash tests conducted by NHTSA. A 5-star rating indicates the highest level of occupant protection.
Technical Service Bulletins for the 2011 BMW 550I
BMW of North America, LLC has issued 13 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2011 BMW 550I. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.
B653423 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicleâÂÂs equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the mirrors/blinking confirmation) is noticeable. Additionally, the red anti-theft alarm LED in the interior mirror does not briefly flash every 2...
B010222 — COMMUNICATION
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered into a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Isley, et al. v. BMW of North America, et al. The Court has granted final approval of the settlement. The Settlement Benefits are effective and available on and after...
613512 — EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Radio and Air Conditioning Functions Inoperative, When Vehicle is Moving. All audio and heating/air conditioning functions cannot be controlled when the vehicle is moving. After the vehicle is turned off and has entered sleep mode (after approximately 30 minutes), the system operates normally. CAUSE: Software error in the audio and...
B012918 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
N63 CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT FOR OIL CONSUMPTION AND BATTERY DRAIN - OVERVIEW This Service Information Bulletin replaces SI B01 29 18 dated October 2018.
B520417 — SEATS
BACKREST NOISES WHEN UNDER LOAD. Pop noise coming from seat backrest when pressure exerted toward rear or while pulling away from a stop. Friction between top right rivet holding lordosis (back Lumbar support) valve block and backrest cushion spring.
B120516 — ENGINE
"N55 - Engine Malfunction Warning Due to Vapor Forming in the Fuel System. The Engine Drivetrain Malfunction"" Check Control warning is displayed and the Service Engine Soon (MIL) Lamp may also be on. In areas where winterized fuel is used, this situation may occur after prolonged periods of engine idling...
B011215 — EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
"N63 Engine Crankcase Ventilation ""Connecting Line"" Hoses: Limited Warranty Extension to 10 Years/120,000 Miles. INFORMATION For the above-referenced vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (""BMW NA"") is extending the limited warranty for the Crankcase ventilation ""connecting line"" hoses to: 10 years/120,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date...
620114 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
M Vehicles with Head-Up Display: M View Display Is Incomplete. Since the vehicle was programmed with ISTA/P 2.50.2 or higher (F10/F12/F13 - New integration level: F010-1307-504 or higher), the M view in the Head-up Display (HUD) is not completely displayed. * The lower part of the gear indicator number is...
620114 — LANE DEPARTURE
M Vehicles with Head-Up Display: M View Display Is Incomplete. Since the vehicle was programmed with ISTA/P 2.50.2 or higher (F10/F12/F13 - New integration level: F010-1307-504 or higher), the M view in the Head-up Display (HUD) is not completely displayed. * The lower part of the gear indicator number is...
110113 — ENGINE
"N63 and N63T Engine: Engine Oil Consumption, Engine Oil Top-ups and Refill Capacity. Customers with one of the vehicles above may complain that the engine's oil consumption is ""too high,"" resulting in engine oil top-ups and workshop visits to address the issue before the vehicle displays an engine oil service...
Showing 10 of 13 technical service bulletins.
NHTSA Investigations for the 2011 BMW 550I
There are no NHTSA defect investigations on record for this vehicle.
Other Model Years of the BMW 550I
- 2006 BMW 550I — 30 complaints
- 2007 BMW 550I — 48 complaints
- 2008 BMW 550I — 49 complaints
- 2009 BMW 550I — 2 complaints
- 2010 BMW 550I — 17 complaints
- 2011 BMW 550I (current)
- 2012 BMW 550I — 53 complaints
- 2013 BMW 550I — 26 complaints
- 2014 BMW 550I — 5 complaints
- 2015 BMW 550I — 9 complaints
- 2016 BMW 550I — 2 complaints