Positioning:
Premium executive sedan, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Platform:
E60 platform, known for its sporty handling and advanced chassis dynamics.
Engine Variant:
Focuses on the powerful 550i variant, highlighting its V8 performance.
Software Benefit:
Provides immediate access to factory-level repair information, surpassing dated printed manuals.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnostics, overhaul, timing, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (Steptronic) servicing, diagnostics, repair, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings, AWD system (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, pad/rotor replacement, caliper repair, ABS, DSC, EBD systems
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair
Infotainment And Electronics:
iDrive system, navigation, audio, communication systems, sensors
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical systems
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor data interpretation, system analysis using diagnostic tools
Rebuilds:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, component rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, electrical resistance values
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Expert level: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electronic diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4.8L Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4799 cc (4.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 90.3 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS, VALVETRONIC
Horsepower:
360 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
360 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ECU (Specific variant for N62)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional advanced safety features)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated traction control.
Brake Assist:
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Yes
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and head airbags (curtain).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Chassis Construction:
High-strength steel safety cage.
System Name:
iDrive (CCC - Car Communication Computer)
Display:
Central high-resolution LCD screen.
Interface:
Rotary controller, buttons, and voice control (optional).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) optional.
Parking Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC) standard; Backup camera optional.
Headlights:
Xenon Adaptive Headlights standard.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth hands-free calling integration (phone dependent).
Usb Aux:
Auxiliary audio input standard; USB integration optional/later availability.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (as per CBS system or mileage recommendation).
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 60,000 miles, but refer to CBS or manual for exact recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Often considered 'lifetime' by manufacturer, but professional recommendation is to change every 60,000-100,000 miles for longevity.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Common Issues Engine:
Valve stem seals (oil consumption), VANOS solenoids, ignition coil failures, coolant leaks (valley pan, hoses).
Common Issues Transmission:
Mechatronic sleeve leaks, torque converter issues (less common but possible).
Common Issues Electrical:
CCC/CIC unit issues (iDrive system), water pump failure (electric), alternator failure.
Common Issues Suspension:
Control arm bushings, sway bar links, strut mounts.
Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for performance-oriented luxury vehicles since 1916.
E60 Introduction:
The E60 generation replaced the E39 and introduced significant styling and technological advancements.
550I Positioning:
The 550i served as the top-tier non-M model in the E60 lineup, featuring the most powerful standard engine.
Production Years E60:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Graz - Magna Steyr)