The Most Common 2011 BMW 550i Problems You Should Know About

The 2011 BMW 550i is an exhilarating performance sedan that still turns heads on the road today. However, some problematic issues have surfaced over the years that 550i owners should be aware of. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the most common 2011 BMW 550i problems and explain what’s causing them, how to diagnose them, and the typical repair costs. Read on to learn the top 2011 550i problems and determine if you may encounter any on your own vehicle.

Frequent Engine and Oil Leaks

One of the most common issues reported on the 2011 550i is frequent oil leaks from multiple areas of the engine. These leaks are often due to gaskets and seals wearing out over time. The two main sources of engine oil leaks on the 550i are the valve cover gasket and the oil filter housing gasket.

Common Sources of Engine Oil Leaks

Valve Cover Gasket – This gasket seals the valve cover to the cylinder head. When it fails, oil can leak down the sides of the engine, potentially dripping onto the exhaust. You may notice smoke coming from the engine bay or smell burning oil from the exhaust. Replacing the valve cover gasket is a big job since the intake manifold needs to be removed. Repair costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,500.

Oil Filter Housing Gasket – The gasket where the oil filter screws on can also wear out and leak over time. This will cause oil to drip down the front of the engine. Replacing this gasket is an easier job but still costs around $500 – $700 in parts and labor.

Oil Pan Gasket – While not as common, the gasket sealing the oil pan can leak. This will cause oil to drip underneath the engine. Fixing an oil pan leak costs $600 – $900.

Rear Main Seal – The seal where the crankshaft exits the engine can wear and leak oil from the rear. This is one of the more challenging leaks to fix since the transmission needs to be removed. It costs $1,200 – $1,800 to replace the rear main seal.

Diagnosing an Engine Oil Leak

Watch for oil drips under your 550i and traces of oil on the ground where it’s parked. Also look for smoke coming from the engine bay and a burning oil smell from the exhaust. These signs point to an external oil leak.

You can use dye tabs or UV dye added to the oil to help determine exactly where oil is leaking from. The dyed oil will escape through the leak and you can then trace it back to the source.

Low oil levels in between changes can also indicate an internal engine leak allowing oil to escape combustion. Be sure to check your oil level regularly as low oil can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Repair Costs for Engine Oil Leak

As outlined above, expect to pay anywhere from $500 – $1,800 to fix an oil leak depending on the source. Valve cover and rear main seal leaks tend to be the most expensive. Oil pan gasket and oil filter housing gasket leaks are more affordable to fix.

Shop around for quotes as repair costs can vary between mechanics. Only use genuine BMW parts to ensure the best results and have the work performed at a specialized European auto shop if possible.

Properly repairing oil leaks is important to prevent engine damage. Be sure to address any oil leaks right away before it leads to bigger problems.

Faulty High Pressure Fuel Pumps

Another common and problematic issue on 2011 550i models is failure of the high pressure fuel pump (HPFP). This electric pump delivers pressurized fuel to the injectors for the direct injection system. When it fails, you may experience poor engine performance, stalling, no starts, and reduced fuel economy.

Symptoms of a Bad High Pressure Fuel Pump

Long crank time and difficulty starting the engine
Stalling and sputtering, especially under hard acceleration
Check engine light with fuel trim and misfire codes
Whining or buzzing noise from the fuel pump area
Excessive fuel consumption and poor gas mileage

If you notice any of those symptoms, have the high pressure fuel pump tested right away. As the pump further deteriorates, the 550i may have complete loss of power and not start at all.

Diagnosing a Failing HPFP

A fuel pressure test is needed to check the pump’s performance and determine if it needs to be replaced. A mechanic will attach a fuel pressure gauge and monitor the readings with the engine running and under load.

Readings outside the specified range indicate the pump is weakening and should be replaced. You can also listen for abnormal buzzing or whining noises coming from the HPFP mounted in the fuel tank.

Replacement Costs for the High Pressure Fuel Pump

Expect to pay $1,200 – $1,800 for a new BMW high pressure fuel pump and labor to install it. The pump itself costs around $700 – $1,200. Additional shop fees and labor add to the overall repair bill.

Shop around for quotes, look for fuel pump warranties, and make sure you use a new genuine BMW replacement pump. Do not drive the vehicle if the pump completely fails as it can cause engine damage.

Problematic Water Pumps

The electric water pump on the 2011 550i is prone to early failure in some vehicles. When the water pump stops working, it prevents coolant from circulating through the cooling system leading to overheating.

Signs of Water Pump Failure

Engine overheating when idling or in traffic
Coolant leaks from the water pump or hoses
Check engine light with cooling system codes
Noise from the water pump area
Coolant in the oil (head gasket leak)

Catching water pump problems early is crucial to avoid serious engine damage from overheating. If you notice any symptoms, have the water pump tested immediately.

Checking Your Water Pump

Your BMW dealer can perform a cooling system pressure test to check for leaks indicating a bad water pump. They will also check for signs of leaking coolant or water pump noise pointing to failure.

The water pump itself is electrically operated and mounted behind the engine. It’s driven by the serpentine belt. Inspect the pump and pulley for any leaks or damage. Check that the electrical connector is tight.

Cost to Replace the Water Pump

Expect to pay around $800 – $1,200 in parts and labor to replace the 550i water pump. The pump itself costs $400 – $700 plus fees for coolant and shop labor during installation. Shop around for quotes as prices can vary between mechanics. Only use a new genuine BMW water pump.

Oil Filter Housing Leaks

Another very common leak prone area on the 2011 BMW 550i is the oil filter housing. The gasket sealing the housing to the engine block often hardens and fails over time. This allows oil to leak down the front of the engine.

Identifying an Oil Filter Housing Leak

Check the oil filter housing for any signs of oil. You will usually see leaking oil running down the front of the engine and potentially dripping onto the ground.

Oil on the undercarriage when parked may also indicate a housing leak. Look for a build up of grime around the leaks as well. Keep an eye on your oil level between changes for any unexplained loss of oil.

Repair Options and Costs

Replacing the oil filter housing gasket will be needed to correct this oil leak. The gasket itself is affordable, typically $25-$50. But the labor to replace it adds significantly to the overall cost.

Expect to pay around $500 – $800 for this common repair. Book 2-3 hours of labor at your shop’s hourly rate. Only use a new genuine BMW oil filter housing gasket for best durability.

Take care of oil filter housing leaks promptly to avoid excess oil loss leading to engine damage over time. Monitor your 2011 550i closely for any of these common oil leaks.

Electrical System Issues

As the 550i ages, various electrical issues can arise. Two common problems involve the battery, alternator, ignition coils, and spark plugs.

Battery and Alternator Problems

The battery and alternator work together to supply power and charge the system. Issues with either component can cause:

Difficulty starting the engine
Battery warning light on the dash
Dimming headlights at idle signaling a weak alternator

Have your battery and alternator tested to pinpoint problems. Expect $150 – $350 to replace the battery if it’s worn out. And $600 – $900 to replace a failed alternator.

Faulty Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils

The spark plugs and ignition coils deliver the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel mixture in the cylinders. When they fail, symptoms include:

Misfires, rough idle, loss of power
Check engine light with cylinder misfire codes
Oil fouled spark plugs indicating leaks
Failed coil packs

Replacing worn spark plugs costs around $200 – $300. And defective ignition coil packs run $150 – $250 each.

Repair and Replacement Costs

Monitor your 550i for any of these electrical issues that commonly develop over time. Battery or alternator problems should be diagnosed and fixed right away. Otherwise you may get stranded when the car won’t start.

Address any ignition system misfires as well. Driving with bad spark plugs or coils can eventually lead to catalytic converter damage costing up to $2,000 to repair.

In Summary

In summary, the top issues to watch for on 2011 BMW 550i models are engine oil leaks, high pressure fuel pump failure, water pump leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks, and various electrical system problems. Being aware of these problematic areas can help you identify issues early and understand typical repair costs.

While the 2011 550i is susceptible to these flaws, don’t let that deter you – with proactive maintenance and care, this BMW can still provide many more exciting years on the road. Check for any warning signs during ownership and promptly address leaks, fuel pump failure, or electrical issues.

Equipped with the knowledge in this guide, 550i owners can confidently handle any of these common problems. Monitor your 550i closely, fix issues promptly, and perform preventative maintenance to maximize longevity and enjoyment. Despite requiring some expensive repairs, a properly maintained 2011 BMW 550i can still be a reliable and exhilarating performance sedan.