🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

550i

Year:

2007

Chassis Code:

E60

Engine Code:

N62B48TU

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan (Luxury Sports Sedan)

Competitors 2007:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E550), Audi A6 (4.2 FSI), Lexus GS 460, Jaguar XF (later models)

Key Selling Points:

Performance-oriented V8 engine, sophisticated chassis dynamics (Active Steering, Adaptive Drive options), premium interior, advanced technology

Infotainment System:

iDrive (CCC or early CIC based)

Driver Assistance:

Available Active Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Head-Up Display

Chassis Technology:

Optional Adaptive Drive (active anti-roll stabilization and variable dampers), Optional Active Steering

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Europe (potentially, depending on specific regional variations detailed in manual)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (N62B48TU V8), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic - GM 6L45R/6L50), Drivetrain (Rear-Wheel Drive)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC, EBA, CBC), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Chassis Control Module (CCC/CIC), Infotainment Systems, Navigation, Audio, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System, Keyless Entry, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats)

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seals, Interior Trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement

Repair:

Engine Mechanical Repair (Head Gaskets, Valve Stem Seals, Timing Chain), Fuel Injection System Repair, Ignition System Diagnosis, Cooling System Leak Repair, Transmission Service & Overhaul, Brake System Repair (Calipers, Rotors, Lines), Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Control Arms), Steering Rack Repair/Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement (Sensors, Modules, Actuators), HVAC System Diagnosis & Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics & Pinouts, Component Testing Procedures

Diagnostics:

OBD-II Diagnostics, BMW-Specific Diagnostic Tools (e.g., ISTA/D integration hints), Live Data Analysis, Component Activation Tests

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Proprietary Software (typically installer with executable files and database)

Searchability:

High (fully searchable text and diagrams)

Printability:

Printable sections/pages (user controlled)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4.8 Liters (4799 cc)

Engine Code:

N62B48TU (TU denotes Technical Update)

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Valvetronic (Variable Valve Lift)

Horsepower:

360 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque:

360 lb-ft @ 3400-3800 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 Liters (9 US Quarts)

Coolant Capacity:

9.0 Liters (9.5 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Steptronic

Transmission Model:

GM 6L45R / 6L50 (depending on region/drivetrain)

Optional Transmission:

None for 550i, Manual transmission available on 535i and 525i/530i

Transmission Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode, electronic shift control, adaptive transmission control (elec. controlled shifts based on driving style)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF 6 (Dexron VI compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 inches (4853 mm)

Width:

72.7 inches (1846 mm)

Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm)

Wheelbase:

113.7 inches (2890 mm)

Curb Weight:

3950 - 4100 lbs (1792 - 1860 kg) approx.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5070 lbs (2300 kg) approx.

Trunk Capacity:

14.0 cubic feet (396 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for comparable E60 models)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (for comparable E60 models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for comparable E60 models)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with DTC mode

Braking Assistance:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA/EBA), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)

Steering Assistance:

Available Active Steering (variable steering ratio)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), Side airbags (front), Head curtain airbags (front/rear), Knee airbags (driver)

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel with pretensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Primary System:

iDrive (Intelligent Personal Interface Device)

Display:

Central LCD screen (typically 7-inch)

Audio System:

Standard Hi-Fi system, optional Logic 7 premium audio

Navigation:

Optional professional navigation system

Adaptive Cruise Control:

Optional: Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go functionality

Lane Departure Warning:

Optional: Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Parking Assistance:

Optional: Park Distance Control (PDC), Rearview Camera

Bluetooth:

Optional: Bluetooth hands-free interface

Usb Aux:

Optional: USB/Auxiliary input for audio

Lighting Technology:

Standard Xenon Adaptive Headlights with automatic leveling and cleaning system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, which monitors driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for the N62 V8, but always refer to CBS and manual.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic oil.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Coolant/Antifreeze (G48 or similar ethylene glycol based with silicates)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (BMW High Performance Brake Fluid)

Engine Common Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, eccentric shaft sensor issues (common on N62), coolant leaks (especially from plastic components and hoses), starter motor failure, ignition coil failures.

Transmission Common Issues:

Mechatronic sleeve leaks (prone to failure), occasional transmission control unit (TCU) issues, potential for torque converter shudder.

Electrical Common Issues:

Water pump failure (electric), coolant level sensor issues, blower motor resistor failure, Xenon headlight ballast issues, iDrive system glitches.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW is renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' emphasizing performance, engineering, and luxury.

E60 Generation Years:

2003-2010

550I Introduction:

Introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the 545i, featuring the larger N62B48TU V8 engine.

Facelift E60:

Mid-cycle refresh occurred for the 2008 model year, with subtle exterior and interior updates, and technology enhancements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also some assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Autoworld Award:

While not specifically for the 550i variant, the E60 platform generally received positive reviews for its chassis dynamics and performance.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The 5 Series (E60 platform) was a recurring nominee and winner on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.

Jd Power Ratings:

BMW 5 Series models typically scored well in Power's Initial Quality Study and Vehicle Dependability Study within the Luxury segment during this era.