This page covers 3 recalls, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2011 BMW 550i.
17–20 mpg combined
11.8–13.8 L/100km
Midsize Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2011 BMW 550i has 3 recalls, the most serious involving the fuel pump connector, which can melt and cause a fuel leak or cut power to the fuel pump entirely, stalling the engine while driving.
A second recall affects vehicles that had their airbag sensor cluster unit replaced during a prior service visit. If that replacement unit was not functioning correctly, the driver and passenger airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and active head restraints may not deploy with the right force in a crash, raising the risk of injury. On the engine side, the turbocharger's circuit board can overheat and create a fire risk under the hood.
At a glance
What can fail
The electric auxiliary water pump may fail, causing the circuit board to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the electric auxiliary water pump at no cost to you.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Some replacement Sensor Cluster Units have an acceleration sensor that was programmed incorrectly, which may prevent the system from accurately detecting a crash and deploying airbags, safety belt pre-tensioners, and head restraints.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the Sensor Cluster Unit at no cost. Contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 to schedule service.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel pump inside the tank may have wire contacts that aren't crimped tightly enough, potentially causing electrical connection problems.
What the fix does
The fuel pump module will be replaced with a properly assembled unit at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
