🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

550i

Product Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Generation Code:

F10/F11/F07

Chassis Codes:

F10 (Sedan), F11 (Touring), F07 (Gran Turismo)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Executive Luxury Sedan/Wagon/Gran Turismo

Target Audience:

Discerning drivers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced technology.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF.

Engine Power:

Powerful V8 twin-turbocharged engine delivering strong acceleration and refined performance.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned BMW driving dynamics, offering a balance of comfort and sportiness, especially with optional adaptive suspension.

Interior Luxury:

Premium materials, sophisticated design, and advanced comfort features.

Technology Integration:

Advanced iDrive infotainment system, driver assistance features, and connectivity options.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (Comprehensive Digital Format)

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF or similar)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the V8 twin-turbo engine (N63/N63TU).

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) operation and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Service and repair procedures for the automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 8HP70) including fluid changes, control module diagnosis, and component replacement.

Drivetrain:

All-wheel drive (xDrive) system, differential service, axle and CV joint repair, driveshaft maintenance.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers/struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures, and adaptive suspension systems.

Steering:

Power steering system, electric power steering (EPS) components, steering rack and linkage repair, and related systems.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, and electronic parking brake.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, battery service, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, and accessory circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, structural repair guidelines.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules.

Infotainment And Electronics:

iDrive system, navigation, audio, climate control units, sensor diagnostics, control unit replacement and programming (e.g., ISTA/P reference).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, cabin air filter replacement, brake fluid flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic scan tools (e.g., BMW ISTA), interpreting live data, and performing component tests.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances.

Timing Procedures:

Engine timing chain inspection and replacement, camshaft timing adjustments.

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of sensors, solenoids, motors, and control modules.

Safety System Calibration:

Calibration procedures for airbags, parking sensors, and other safety-related components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics, including detailed explanations of system operation and fault symptom analysis.

Electrical Schematics:

Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of required BMW-specific special tools and equipment.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Readability:

Optimized for digital viewing, potentially printable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N63 (early models), N63TU (Technical Update models, ~2013 onwards)

Engine Type:

4.4L V8 Twin-Turbocharged, Valvetronic, Double VANOS

Horsepower:

Approx. 400-445 hp (depending on specific model year and N63/N63TU variant)

Torque:

Approx. 450-495 lb-ft (depending on specific model year and N63/N63TU variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure Fuel System)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Dme Model:

Bosch Motronic (specific variant varies)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

8-Speed Automatic Steptronic (ZF 8HP70)

Optional Transmission:

Not applicable for 550i during these years; all were automatic.

Transmission Features:

Sport mode, manual shifting capability via gear selector and/or paddle shifters, adaptive shift logic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW Longlife-01 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Shell ATF M-1375.4 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length F10:

Approx. 192.1 inches (4880 mm)

Width F10:

Approx. 72.7 inches (1846 mm)

Height F10:

Approx. 57.2 inches (1453 mm)

Wheelbase F10:

Approx. 116.9 inches (2970 mm)

Curb Weight Rwd:

Approx. 4,079 lbs (1850 kg)

Curb Weight AWD:

Approx. 4,255 lbs (1930 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Typically achieved 5-star overall safety ratings in NHTSA testing (may vary by year and specific configuration).

IIHS Rating:

Often awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick designations.

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Traction Control (DTC).

Braking Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Driver Assistance:

Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Active Headlights, Parking Assistant.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, knee airbags (driver).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive (e.g., CIC or NBT Professional Navigation systems).

Display Size:

Typically 7-inch or 10.2-inch central display.

Audio Options:

Standard BMW Professional radio, optional Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen sound systems.

Parking Assistance:

Standard Park Distance Control (PDC), optional rearview camera or Surround View (Top View, Side View).

Lighting Technology:

Bi-Xenon headlights standard, optional Adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams.

Bluetooth Integration:

Standard Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, often with USB adapter for media playback.

Navigation System:

Professional Navigation system with hard drive storage and real-time traffic information.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000 - 15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Brake Fluid Interval:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage).

Spark Plug Interval:

Approximately 60,000 miles (check specific model year recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Interval:

Around 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic engine oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 (verify specific requirements).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (with filter change).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue (G48) or similar ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.

N63 Engine Issues:

Potential for oil consumption, carbon buildup on intake valves, ignition coil failures, fuel injector issues, and battery drain (especially on early N63 engines). The N63TU addressed some of these.

Turbocharger Issues:

Leaking oil seals, wastegate actuator problems, and intercooler hose leaks can occur.

Suspension Components:

Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints; failure of adaptive suspension components can be costly.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can include issues with various sensors, control modules, and battery management systems due to the complexity of BMW electronics.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' focusing on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

F10 Generation Introduction:

The F10 generation, introduced for the 2011 model year, replaced the E60 5 Series, bringing a more sophisticated and less polarizing design along with advanced technology.

F10 550I Positioning:

The 550i served as the flagship performance model in the 5 Series lineup, offering a potent V8 engine for those seeking enhanced power.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (Dingolfing Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 550i vary by year, the F10 5 Series generation generally received praise for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology, often being recognized by automotive publications for its class-leading attributes.