🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

6 Series

Chassis Codes:

F12 (Convertible), F13 (Coupe), F06 (Gran Coupe)

Model Year Coverage:

2012

Generation:

F12/F13/F06 (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 6 Series (F12/F13/F06) represents BMW's pinnacle of luxury grand touring, blending performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It competed directly with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe/Convertible, Audi A7, and Porsche Panamera.

Competitors:

Key competitors included Mercedes-Benz CLS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe/Convertible, Audi A7 Sportback, Porsche Panamera, and Maserati GranTurismo. The 6 Series was known for its driver-focused dynamics and sophisticated styling.

Distinctive Attributes:

Sleek coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe body styles; powerful V8 and inline-six engines; advanced chassis dynamics (e.g., optional Adaptive Drive); luxurious and technologically advanced interior; high-quality materials and build.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service and repair for all models and all repairs A-Z.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific sub-model and engine, typically 1500-3000+ pages for comprehensive dealer manuals.

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English (likely, based on typical distribution)

Format:

Digital (PDF or similar electronic format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft), lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU diagnostics).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 8-speed Steptronic), manual transmission (if applicable), clutch system, transfer case (if applicable for xDrive models).

Drivetrain:

Drive shafts, differential units (front and rear), CV joints, wheel bearings, all-wheel drive (xDrive) system components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, adaptive suspension systems (e.g., Dynamic Drive, EDC).

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, steering column, steering wheel.

Brakes:

Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuse boxes, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), sensors.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, trunk/boot lid, hood/bonnet, glass and seals, structural components, anti-corrosion measures.

Interior:

Seats, dashboard, trim panels, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts, comfort features.

Comfort Systems:

HVAC, climate control, heated/ventilated seats, electric seat adjustment, sunroof, soft-close doors.

Infotainment And Electronics:

iDrive system, navigation, audio system, Bluetooth, USB integration, display units, control modules.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspections/replacements.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures for all systems, using BMW diagnostic tools (ISTA/P, ISTA/D).

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation:

Procedures for replacing and installing new or reconditioned parts, including timing chain replacement, fuel injector replacement, turbocharger replacement, control module programming/coding.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameter ranges.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

In-depth, dealership-level technical information covering all aspects of maintenance, diagnostics, and repair, including complex electronic systems and drivetrain components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing.

Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing detailed diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N55B30

Engine Type:

3.0L Inline 6-Cylinder Twin-Scroll Turbocharged

Horsepower:

315 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm

Torque:

330 lb-ft @ 1300-4500 rpm

Engine Code:

N63B44O0 (TU variant for 2012)

Engine Type:

4.4L V8 Twin-Turbocharged (Hot-V configuration)

Horsepower:

445 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque:

480 lb-ft @ 1750-4500 rpm

Injection Type:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 640I:

8-speed ZF 8HP70 Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Transmission Type 650I:

8-speed ZF 8HP90 Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard; xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional on some models.

Gear Selection:

Sport Mode, Manual Shift Mode (via shifter or paddle shifters).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

194.6 inches (4943 mm)

Width:

74.6 inches (1894 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Length:

194.6 inches (4943 mm)

Width:

74.6 inches (1894 mm)

Height:

54.5 inches (1385 mm)

Length:

196.8 inches (5000 mm)

Width:

74.6 inches (1894 mm)

Height:

55.2 inches (1403 mm)

Curb Weight 640I:

Approx. 4,000-4,200 lbs (1814-1905 kg)

Curb Weight 650I:

Approx. 4,200-4,400 lbs (1905-2000 kg)

Trunk Volume:

12.0 cu ft (340 L)

Trunk Volume:

11.5 cu ft (325 L) with roof up, 7.7 cu ft (218 L) with roof down

Trunk Volume:

15.7 cu ft (445 L)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

18-inch alloy wheels (common)

Optional Wheel Size:

19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels available

Standard Tire Size:

245/45R18 (front and rear, depending on model)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Generally good ratings, though specific model year tests may vary. High marks for side impact.

IIHS Rating:

Often received 'Good' ratings in IIHS crashworthiness tests. Look for 'Top Safety Pick' designations.

Dynamic Stability Control:

Standard BMW DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with traction control.

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard ABS with Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Standard TPMS.

Driver Assistance Options:

Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Surround View camera system, Parking Assistant.

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, knee airbags (driver and passenger), head protection system (front and rear). Convertible models may have rollover protection systems.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with belt tensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW iDrive Professional Multimedia System (CCC or CIC generation, depending on early vs. later 2012 production). Features include navigation, radio, CD/DVD, USB/Aux input, Bluetooth audio and phone.

Display:

High-resolution central LCD display.

Adaptive Drive:

Optional feature combining Dynamic Drive (active roll stabilization) and Dynamic Damping Control (EDC) for enhanced ride and handling adjustability.

Parking Aid:

Front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) standard. Optional: rearview camera or Surround View camera system.

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming. Optional: Enhanced Bluetooth with USB and smartphone integration.

Usb Port:

Standard USB/Aux input. Optional: additional USB ports for charging/media.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific CBS sensor status.

Microfilter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles or 24 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles for N55 engine, higher for N63 V8. Refer to manual for precise interval based on engine type and variant.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil 640I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. Refer to manual for exact viscosity and spec.

Engine Oil 650I:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40. Refer to manual for exact viscosity and spec.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid 8Hp:

Specialized ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 (or equivalent specified by ZF/BMW for the 8HP transmission). This is a lifetime fluid but replacement is recommended at higher mileage (e.g., 100,000+ miles) or per service indications.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or equivalent.

N63 Engine Common Complaints:

Historically, early N63 engines (pre-2012/2013 'TU' updates) had issues with oil consumption, carbon buildup on intake valves, and injector failures. The 2012 models likely have the 'TU' (Technical Update) which addresses some of these but meticulous maintenance is still key. Water pump failures and turbocharger issues can also occur.

N55 Engine Common Complaints:

Water pump and thermostat failures are relatively common. Charge pipe failures can occur, leading to boost leaks. VANOS solenoid issues can also arise.

Electronics And Modules:

Various electronic control modules (e.g., DME, TCU, PDC) can fail or develop intermittent issues. Battery degradation can affect numerous systems.

Suspension And Steering:

Wear in suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rods can occur with mileage. Power steering system leaks or electronic power steering component failures can also happen.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building sporty luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics, originating from its motorcycle and aircraft engine manufacturing roots.

6 Series Predecessors:

The F12/F13/F06 generation replaced the E63/E64 6 Series. It offered a more refined and technologically advanced package, along with a new Gran Coupe body style.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany.

Production Years:

Second generation (F12/F13/F06) produced from 2011 to 2017.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

The 6 Series models, particularly the V8-powered 650i, often received accolades for their powerful engines and refined grand touring capabilities from automotive publications.

Design Awards:

The F12/F13/F06 design was generally praised for its elegant and sporty lines, often receiving positive reviews for its aesthetic appeal.

Safety Certifications:

Meets all relevant federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for its model year. Specific IIHS/NHTSA ratings are available for individual tests.