🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

550i

Generation:

E60/E61

Product Name:

BMW 550i 2005-2010 Service Repair Manual

Chassis Code:

E60 (Sedan), E61 (Touring/Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 550i (E60/E61) represented BMW's executive sedan offering, known for its blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology, competing directly with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned as a powerful, sporty, and technologically advanced luxury sedan, the 550i offered a V8 engine option that differentiated it from many six-cylinder competitors in its class.

Key Features:

Powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, advanced iDrive infotainment system, sophisticated chassis dynamics, available xDrive all-wheel drive (on some models), and high-quality build.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years:

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Page Count:

1662

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Interior Systems, Safety Systems, Infotainment

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair and Overhaul, Component Replacement, Electrical System Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Body and Interior Repairs, Emissions System Repair, HVAC System Repair

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes and inspections to in-depth engine, transmission, and electrical system diagnostics and repair. Includes detailed torque specifications, repair sequences, and special tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text and clear, legible diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N62B48

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4.8 Liters (4799 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 88.3 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Valve Train:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic MED17

Horsepower:

360 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque:

360 lb-ft (488 Nm) @ 3400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Transmission Type Optional:

6-Speed Manual (Rare, primarily early E60 models)

Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift programs, manual shifting mode via gear selector or paddle shifters.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (e.g., P/N 83 22 0 024 359) or equivalent, requires specific fill procedure.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

116.4 inches (2956 mm)

Length:

191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

72.7 inches (1847 mm)

Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5000-5200 lbs (2268-2359 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Active Head Restraints

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (air curtains), front seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive system with a central control dial, LCD screen, and integrated navigation, radio, CD player, and climate control functions.

Optional Features:

Enhanced Bluetooth, Logic 7 premium audio system, satellite radio.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional adaptive cruise control (Active Cruise Control), parking sensors (Park Distance Control), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling, USB/Auxiliary input (later models).

Lighting Technology:

Bi-Xenon adaptive headlights, LED taillights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Condition-based service (CBS) typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual recommends checking via iDrive.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to CBS or manual, typically around 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (24 months) regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40. Capacity: Approx. 8.5 Quarts (8.0 Liters).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 9.5 Quarts (9.0 Liters).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.

Known Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks (N62 engine), VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank leaks, ignition coil failures, oil pan gasket leaks, thermostat housing leaks, automatic transmission mechatronic unit issues, iDrive system glitches, and active steering system faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long history of producing high-performance luxury vehicles, particularly renowned for their engineering precision, driving dynamics, and motorsport success.

Model Evolution:

The E60 generation replaced the E39 5 Series. It introduced a more modern design, significantly updated technology (including iDrive), and a broader range of engine options. The 550i variant was introduced to offer a potent V8 alternative.

Production Years E60 E61:

2003-2010

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 550i variant are less common, the E60 generation as a whole received numerous accolades for its design, technology, and driving dynamics from automotive publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend.

Ratings:

Generally received high marks for overall performance and luxury, though early iDrive systems were criticized for complexity.