2015 BMW 550i Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Fuel/Propulsion System Failures: The most frequent complaints involve the fuel and propulsion systems, with owners reporting "Drivetrain malfunction" warnings leading to sudden engine shutdown. This is a critical safety concern, especially at higher speeds.
- Powertrain Complexity: Beyond fuel delivery, the powertrain itself is a source of concern, with reports of issues that can impact drivability.
- Transmission Selector Concerns: A specific electrical issue with the transmission's automatic gear selector indicator lights has been reported, posing a safety hazard by obscuring gear selection.
- Tire and Wheel Issues: While less frequent, complaints related to wheels and tires, including tire tread separation, have been noted.
2015 BMW 550i
Critical Failure Risk
Sudden engine shutdown and "Drivetrain malfunction" warnings are frequently reported, often attributed to fuel pump failures. This can lead to unexpected stalling, posing a significant safety risk.
Early detection can help you avoid a $4-$1,600 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Is the 2015 550i worth it?
The 2015 BMW 550i offers potent V8 performance and luxury, but potential buyers must be aware of significant concerns regarding its fuel and propulsion systems, which can lead to sudden engine shutdown.
Buy it if...
enthusiasts who prioritize strong v8 performance and luxury.
Skip it if...
buyers seeking a low-maintenance, budget-friendly vehicle.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts who prioritize strong V8 performance and luxury.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, budget-friendly vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2015 BMW 550i Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2015 BMW 550i.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S8)
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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See the full 2015 BMW 550i buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Fuel System
Most reportedUsage: 3 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement - Basic Inspection (Parts: Engine Oil Level Check, Coolant Level Check, Brake Inspection, Tire Inspection, Wiper Blade Inspection)
Est. shop cost: $150 - $300
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FAQ
Is the 2015 BMW 550i reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 BMW 550i is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 9.
How practical is the 2015 BMW 550i for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 520 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2015 BMW 550i?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 BMW 550i is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Tuning 7.0/10. Practicality 5.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 BMW 550i?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement - Basic Inspection (Parts: Engine Oil Level Check, Coolant Level Check, Brake Inspection, Tire Inspection, Wiper Blade Inspection) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $700 • Max: $1300).
What engine is in the 2015 BMW 550i?
Engine specs list 8 • 4.4.
What transmission does the 2015 BMW 550i use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 BMW 550i, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2015 550i require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 BMW 550i?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 BMW 550i?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2015 BMW 550i?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 BMW 550i, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2015 BMW 550i?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 BMW 550i, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2015 BMW 550i use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 BMW 550i, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 BMW 550i?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2015 BMW 550i good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 7/10. The 2015 BMW 550i is a potent luxury sedan with a 4.4L V8 twin-turbo engine that responds well to tuning. Popular platforms: BMW F10 5 Series, N63TU Engine.
What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2015 BMW 550i?
Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (3 reports, 33.3% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2015 BMW 550i?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class and 2015 Audi A6.