CarRecallWatchThe 2011 BMW 550i has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 84 complaints with NHTSA, including 1 crash, 11 fires.
The most-reported problem area is Engine (32 reports).
2011 BMW 550i recalls
Electric water pump can overheat and cause a fire
The electric auxiliary water pump in these vehicles may fail, causing its circuit board to overheat.
Airbags May Not Deploy Correctly in a Crash
A replacement sensor control unit installed in some of these vehicles during a service visit may have been incorrectly programmed.
Fuel Pump Wires Can Melt, Causing Leaks or Stalls
Some vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps with wire contacts that may not be crimped tightly enough.
Most common 2011 BMW 550i problems
Problem areas named in the 84 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Engine | 32 |
| Electrical System | 20 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 14 |
| Power Train | 14 |
| Tires | 12 |
| Unknown Or Other | 8 |
| Wheels | 6 |
| Air Bags | 6 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 4 |
| Seat Belts | 4 |
What owners report
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
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.
Vehicle displays Transmission Malfunction & DSC and xDrive malfunction, this vehicle is available upon request for inspection. Currently been to two dealerships and all I got from the first dealership is to replace transmission at 59k mile. I purchased a used transmission same problem exist in the replacement transmission. As I was driving on highway, the transmission began displaying message above and caused the vehicle suddenly slow down without warning lights causing me to avoid an accident by pulling over to avoid being rear ended. The problem has been reproduced by dealer: tech and service advisors manager( authorized to drive) and he charge me for a tow even after I mention to him I ha
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 connects to cable that runs to the engine compartment. Carpet cover and sound deadening coating had burnt and cable fell through trunk floor on top of gas tank. Car was towed and insurance refused to replace what caused fire, only what burnt from source ie. carpet cover and floor but not wiring. BMW dealer reports they donât know what caused cable to overheat.
2011 BMW 550i questions
Does the 2011 BMW 550i have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2011 BMW 550i: Electric water pump can overheat and cause a fire; Airbags May Not Deploy Correctly in a Crash; Fuel Pump Wires Can Melt, Causing Leaks or Stalls. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 BMW 550i?
Based on 84 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (32), Electrical System (20), Fuel/Propulsion System (14).
How do I check if a recall on my 2011 BMW 550i has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.