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Service bulletins for the 2011 BMW 550i

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

407 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

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Bulletins, newest first
6505142018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Traffic Information Is Inoperative. The traffic information is intermittently or permanently inoperative. * Traffic flow is not displayed on the navigation map. * The traffic list is empty. 1. The Offboard Availability (backend) system is unavailable and is not sending traffic information. 2. The traffic information feature is not activated correctly.
6103142018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Check Control Messages Related to Battery Charge During Cold Ambient Temperatures. On cold days with an outside ambient temperature of less than 15F, customers may notice a check control message related to the battery that is displayed on the instrument cluster and the control information display. Under these conditions, the vehicle starts. Various power management faults can be stored: * 213901 - Power management: Reduction or shutdown of individual electrical consumer * 8040BD - Reset or deactivation of Terminal 30F * 8040B9 - De-activation of terminal 30B: Top start capability limit reached * 8020E8 - Reset or deactivation of terminal 30F * 800E89 - FRM: start capability limit reached with lights active during stationary mode * 93076B - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached * 93076A - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer active * 93076C - Deactivation of terminal 30B: upper start capability limit reached, but deactivation preventer or legal loads active * 930769 - Deactivation of terminal 15: upper start capability limit reached Note: When the outside temperatures drop below 46F, the charging system is switch to full charge. CAUSE * The check control message (ID 229) is caused by a heavily discharged battery. * The check control message is triggered when the current state of charge (SoC) of the battery approaches the minimum SoC that is required to start the vehicle (start capability limit). * In low outside ambient temperatures, the start capability limit of the vehicle is higher. Therefore it takes more energy from the battery to start a cold engine. * Without the early warning of the check control message, the current state of charge would drop below the start capability limit and the vehicle would not start. * The vehicle's intelligent power management system actively takes measures to increase the charge of the battery, such as increasing idle speed and reducing or shutting
3104122018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:U-BOLT, LEAF SPRING TO AXLE. Groaning Noise from Front Axle. Groaning noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or over uneven road surfaces. CAUSE Hydraulic mount in tension strut
3103122018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT; SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:U-BOLT, LEAF SPRING TO AXLE. Groaning Noise from Front Axle. Groaning noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or over uneven road surfaces. CAUSE Hydraulic mount in tension strut
1307122018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE; FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE; FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS. N63 and S63 Engine: High-pressure Fuel Injector Replacement Procedures. The customer complains that one of the following scenarios has been encountered while operating the vehicle: * During a cold start in the morning, the engine runs very roughly and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. * During a hot start, the engine runs very roughly and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. While driving or idling, the engine will misfire and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. * Various misfire faults are stored in DME fault memory. CAUSE An internal failure of the high-pressure fuel injector can lead to incorrect operation.
1217122018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE; POWER TRAIN. N52T / N55 with 8HP45: Delay in Engine Response. A customer may complain of a delay in engine response after decelerating at low road speeds and then reaccelerating. This can occur when the transmission remains in a high gear due to a delay in the transmission downshifting. This situation can be more noticeable while driving on roads with slight turns or with an increasing gradient. Unfavorable EGS and DME software
1105142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE. S63TU Engine: Noises from Leaking Exhaust Manifold. A rattling, knocking, clattering or hissing noise can be heard from the engine compartment while the engine is running. It is more pronounced when the engine is under load. CAUSE The exhaust manifold attaching screws have come loose, causing an exhaust leak.
5117142018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH. Rattling Noise from Mid-range Speaker in Front Door Panel. The customer complains of a rattle noise in either the left or right front door only when the speakers are in use. The inside door lock rod is making contact with the inside panel when the speakers are in use at certain volume and frequency levels.
5116132018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Bang & Olufsen Sound System: Loudspeaker Cover Rattles. The top center loudspeaker cover rattles when driving on rough roads. CAUSE Poor loudspeaker cover fitment to the speaker assembly.
5112112018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Front Cupholder Is Jammed. The front cupholder cover is jammed and cannot be opened or closed. CAUSE The following causes are possible: * Small items such as coins are jammed under the cupholder insert. * The cupholder insert is not properly installed. * The cupholder is faulty or broken. * The cupholder is mounted with excessive stress.
1305142018-11-13. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE; FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS. N20 and N26 Injector Replacement. INFORMATION When a defective high-pressure fuel injector is identified with an index "02" designation, as shown in the illustration below, all 4 injectors must be replaced at the same time. This bulletin only applies to index "02" injectors. Index "01" and index "03" or higher are not affected. No immediate repair is required unless the BMW vehicle is currently experiencing this problem.
8405142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Service Action: Bluetooth Software (KISU Data) Update. This Service Action is being released to improve customer satisfaction as we strive to be number 1 in the JD Power Initial Quality Survey (IQS). This new KISU software improves the Bluetooth functionality in our vehicles, and it helps keep us up-to-date with technology innovation. Please implement the Bluetooth Software Update Service Action. This Service Action will be in effect until March 2015. Thank you for your continuous support. Improved KISU data (Customer Initiated Software Update) is now available for installation in these vehicles via the USB port. Improved functionality for COMBOX: z Detailed view of the text messages z Android device connection stability (linked contacts causing BT disconnection) Improved functionality for HU-H: z Reconnection strategy z 3rd Party App Metadata - Album art and song title Note: This Service Action is to be completed only at the dealer. You (dealers) will be receiving vehicles from the VDCs that will require this service action to be completed prior to customer delivery.
8404122018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 5, 5S, 5C, 4S, 4, and 3GS with iOS 8.x Information. INFORMATION There is one major difference in functionality since iOS 8.0 was released. Scenario: z The customer leaves the vehicle and turns his or her phone off. z He or she turns the phone back on. z He or she enters the vehicle, but does not unlock the phone and start driving. Result: z The phone reconnects to the Bluetooth system (normal). z However, it does not transfer the contact list (not normal). z The contact list in the iDrive will be empty. z The call list in the Kombi will display only phone numbers, but no names. z The hands-free system works for accepting calls and conversing on calls started on the phone. Solution: z Prior to the customer entering the vehicle they must unlock the phone (passkey) With the release of Apple's new iPhone 6, 6 Plus and iOS 8.x software, there have been many questions regarding the new phone and software. The information in the attachment to this Service Information will help answer these questions. A printed copy can be given to the customer if needed. The attachment provides information on the differences between the new iPhone 6, 6 Plus and the previous versions, along with Apple software improvements in the following areas: 1. Visual comparison 2. Connectivity 3. Functionality Refer to the PDF file in the "Attachment" section of this bulletin for complete details. Information on the iPhone 6 is also available via the following: z www.bmwusa.com/bluetooth website NOTE: This SI will be updated as new information is received.
6522142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Automated Activation of Navigation System During PDI/QC1. INFORMATION Important: The INITIAL NAV enabling code no longer needs to be pre-ordered through the Parts department! When the vehicle is connected to the diagnostic system ISTA to perform PDI/QC1, the step to activate the navigation system (part of Delete Transport Mode) will automatically request the INITIAL NAV enabling code (VIN-specific) without pre-ordering the enabling code. This enabling code will be automatically delivered through ISTA and it then activates the navigation system. Note: This VIN-specific NAV enabling code is then also automatically stored in the Repair Kit in the Aftersales Assistance Portal (ASAP). The automated INITIAL NAV enabling code request and activation of the navigation system will take no longer than 1 minute. After finishing "Delete Transport Mode," the navigation system in the vehicle will be active without entering the 20-digit INITIAL NAV enabling code manually or in ISTA. If the navigation system is not active and asking for the enabling code, turn off the ignition and wait for the head unit to enter sleep mode (approx. 3 minutes). After that, turn on the ignition again. The head unit will start up and the navigation system is activated. If the INITIAL NAV enabling code for first-time activation of the navigation system is not requested or delivered automatically, it still can be ordered manually through the Parts department and activated in the vehicle through the iDrive controller, by entering the 20-digit enabling code manually.
6130142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. BMW Maintenance Program: 12-Volt Battery Replacement Measure.
3406142018-11-13. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:CALIPER; SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER; SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC. M5 and M6 Front Axle Brake Squeak with Compound Brake System. A squeaking noise can be heard when braking from a slow speed. This situation may apply to M5 and M6 vehicles fitted with the metallic brake pads (P/N 34 11 2 284 869). These pads can be identified by the absorber weights at the top and bottom. Due to the design of the fixed caliper brake system, an unfavorable interaction between components may cause a squeaking noise.
3405142018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC). Dynamic Stability Control Unit (DSC) Aborted when Programming Vehicle. If termination of vehicle programming occurs due to: A. Undervoltage (when the vehicle is connected to an approved battery charger/power supply) B. Lost connection to the server C. Termination by the control module D. Termination by ISTA/P E. ICOM connector removed/falls out Then the DSC module may no longer communicate when connected to ISTA/D or ISTA/P. As a result, the DSC module cannot be reprogrammed. DSC software
3404142018-11-13. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC. Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles. INFORMATION 1. Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form. These surface hairline cracks are usually spread over the entire brake disc friction area, and have no negative influence on the durability or braking performance. The rotors should not be replaced only for their appearance reasons. When performing routine service on the brake system (pad replacement due to wear), the brake discs should be replaced if surface cracks are found to be greater than 13 mm, or if the brake disc thickness is below the minimum thickness. Always replace brake discs in pairs (per axle). Install new brake pads when replacing discs. By doing this, the service life of the friction pad surface is increased, and an even material loss is ensured. 2. Vibrations and/or steering wheel torsional vibrations during braking are caused by applying the brakes on discs with minimal to heavy corrosion. These vibrations are most noticeable when braking from high speeds with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F), and will diminish with normal everyday operation. Parts replacement is not required. 3. After high brake loads, running noises can be heard when applying the brakes, and may also be heard to a limited extent after the brakes are released. (See the note in the Owner's Manual). These noises are reduced during normal everyday operation, due to further erosion of the brake pad friction lining. Visible surface cracks or craterlike recesses on the brake pad surface are caused by a minor difference in the material of the pad lining, which will decrease with further operation and should not be replaced due to their appearance.
1615142018-11-13. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. NVLD Tank Leakage FC 190302 Fuel Tank Ventilation and Purge Air System Micro Leak. The engine malfunction warning is illuminated and the following fault code is stored in the DME memory: z FC 190302 Fuel tank ventilation and purge air system micro leak leakage greater than 0_5 mm CAUSE Contamination of the NVLD pressure switch electrical contacts
1307122018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. N63 and S63 Engine: High-pressure Fuel Injector Replacement Procedures. The customer complains that one of the following scenarios has been encountered while operating the vehicle: ? During a cold start in the morning, the engine runs very roughly and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. ? During a hot start, the engine runs very roughly and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated.? While driving or idling, the engine will misfire and the Service Engine Soon lamp is illuminated. ? Various misfire faults are stored in DME fault memory. CAUSE An internal failure of the high-pressure fuel injector can lead to incorrect operation.
1221142018-11-13. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Engine Malfunction Warning Illuminated with FC 193208: Fuel Level Plausibility Stored in DME. The customer states that the engine malfunction warning lamp is illuminated and, while filling the fuel tank, the fuel gauge did not show the proper fill level. After the vehicle is driven a short distance, the fuel gauge will update to full. When diagnosed, the following fault is stored in the DME: ? FC 193208 Fuel level, plausibility: deviation between consumption and level change Vehicles with option 610 (Head-Up Display) are not affected. Follow the ISTA/D test plan for the applicable faults stored in the DME. CAUSE A software error in the instrument cluster causes the fuel gauge to incorrectly update while refilling.
1116142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain. INFORMATION This bulletin outlines the procedure to check the engine timing chains for wear and should be completed in conjunction with SI B11 06 14 "N63 Customer Care Package". Performing the test plans identified in the procedure below will detect wear at an early stage and if necessary provide a repair solution. To avoid future valvetrain wear, the vehicle must be reprogrammed and a shorter oil service interval must be retrofitted via ISTA/P. Finally, drain and replace the engine's oil and filter. After completing all necessary repairs included in the N63 Customer Care Package and the Timing Chain Check, the vehicle must be test driven for up to 30 minutes to assure the highest standard of performed repairs.
1107132018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. The test plan will help identify the actual oil level, and advise the amount that will need to be added to correctly fill the engine when topping up. When performing the scheduled oil service and filling the engine with the amount specified, the applicable ISTA/D repair instruction does not require performing this test plan. Applicable models: ? F01 and F02 with the N63T engine with I-Level F001-13-03-501 or higher ? F06, F07, F12 and F13 with the N63T engine with I-Level F001-13-03-501 or higher ? F10 with the N63T engine with I-Level F010-13-07-501 or higher ? F15 and F16 with all I-LevelsTest plan path: 1. Select "Service Function." 2. Select "Drive." 3. Select "Motor Electronics." 4. Select "Motor Oil."5. Select "Oil Level." 6. Select "Continue." 7. Follow the steps as directed in the test plan to complete the measurement. Always refer to ISTA/D for the recommended oil type and the amount required, using the VIN number of the vehicle. IMPORTANT: Do not perform this test plan on the following vehicles: ? Performing the test plan on any vehicle with the N63 engine will result in an inaccurate measurement. ? Performing this test plan on any vehicle with the N63T engine without the applicable I-Levels stated above will result in an inaccurate measurement. Do not perform this test plan when performing engine oil services. Fill the engine with the specification found in ISTA/D. WARRANTY INFORMATION Not applicable. [ Copyright (c)2014 BMW of North America, Inc. ] https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/20361.1.B110713....1/2/2015
1106142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. INFORMATION This bulletin outlines the Customer Care Package program that has been designed exclusively for BMW vehicles with the N63 engine. Vehicles with the N63 high performance engine are engineered with EfficientDynamics that provides fuel economy without compromising on its "class leading" power and performance. To ensure these engines keep delivering the ultimate performance, we have designed this Care Package that includes a 6 point check, and if necessary, the replacement of one or more of the following powertrain components: ? Hot-Film Air Mass Sensors ? PIEZO High Pressure Fuel Injectors ? Engine Vacuum Pump ? Fuel System Low Pressure Sensor/Feed Line ? Fresh Air Intake Turbo Seals ? Crankcase Ventilation Lines (Hoses) This engine care package also includes a multi-point inspection of the vehicle, including tire pressures, fluid levels, safety and convenience features. The procedure described in this bulletin should be completed in conjunction with performing SI B11 16 14, N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain. Perform all recommended, due or qualifying "time-based" maintenance service tasks as directed by the Key Reader/ISPA Light application. Note: The procedure in SI B11 16 14 includes an engine oil and filter change. When applicable, also perform the procedure described in SI B61 30 14, 12-Volt Battery Replacement under the BMW Maintenance Program together with performing the N63 Customer Care Package. After completing all necessary repairs, vehicle needs to be test driven for up to 30 minutes to assure the highest standard of performed repairs.
8402142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist System Diagnosis Information. ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist features are partially or completely inoperative. This Service Information bulletin is being published because vehicles are down for an extended period of time when researching system failures with ConnectedDrive or BMW Assist. This Service Information bulletin will assist you both in identifying the issue and providing technical support. CAUSE Not enough information is available for BMW NA engineers to assist the technician in diagnosing the root cause.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.