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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
8407132018-12-17. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. """Message"" Option Is Missing After Programming. Messages can be sent to the vehicle and are received as indicated by the envelope icon displayed in the CID. However, the menu option ""Message,"" used to retrieve or access messages, is no longer available in the iDrive menu. CAUSE Software error with ISTA/P 2.49.2 to 2.49.4 I-Level F001-13-03-503 to F001-13-03-505"
1304132018-12-17. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. N55 Engine: Erroneous Service Engine Soon Lamp Illuminated with Mixture Faults Stored in the DME. INFORMATION An error has been identified in the current version of ETK regarding N55 fuel injector replacement part numbers and production dates. Installing the incorrect injector part number can lead to an erroneous Service Engine Soon lamp illumination and various mixture faults stored in the DME. Correct part numbers and applicable production dates: P/N 13 64 7 639 994 is for all vehicles produced from 7/2013 P/N 13 64 7 597 870 is for all vehicles produced up to 7/2013
1215132018-12-17. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. N20 and N26 Engine: Various VANOS System Faults Stored in DME. The Service Engine Soon lamp and Engine Malfunction warning are illuminated, and the vehicle has reduced power output. Various faults related to VANOS operation are stored in the DME. While performing the test plan, the results may appear to be inconclusive because the fault will not clear from DME fault memory. CAUSE This is due to a programming error associated with ISTA/P 2.49 and lower. The error is corrected with ISTA/P 2.50.2 or higher.
B6601152018-12-17. Service bulletin. BACK OVER PREVENTION. Surround View Camera Last User Mode Operation Change. After programming with ISTA/P 2.53.5 or a more recent version, the rear camera view is displayed when the reverse gear is selected. The vehicle does not remember the last user mode (surround/top camera view). INFORMATION An operational concept change for the surround/top camera view was introduced with ISTA/P 2.53.5 (I-level Fxx-14-07-505). When the reverse gear is selected, the default view will be the rear camera. The surround/top camera view has been removed from the last user mode function. This is to meet the upcoming (new) federal regulations regarding rear view cameras. Note: The surround/top camera view is available, but the driver must manually switch the camera view using the iDrive controller.
B1604152018-12-17. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Service Action: Program Control Units (SCR). The Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) control module can make an error when calculating the DEF line pressure. This could cause the Service Engine Soon light (MIL) to come on with a pressure plausibility fault stored in the SCR module.
B1303152018-12-17. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. "N20 and N26 Engines: ETK Injector Part Number Error. INFORMATION The current version of ETK has an error on screen 13_1417: ""High -pressure pump/Tubing."" When selecting the high-pressure pump, the screen states ""only in conjunction with injector."" Disregard this statement and only replace the high-pressure pump. If injectors need to be replaced, enter the VIN of the vehicle into the ETK and select the part numbers found on screen 13_1416: ""High-pressure rail/injector/mounting."" Always enter the VIN for the vehicle into ETK when searching for parts. When the ETK is corrected, this SIB will be updated. WARRANTY INFORMATION Not applicable. [ Copyright (c)2015 BMW of North America, Inc. ] https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/224...5/4/2015"
B1210152018-12-17. Service bulletin. ENGINE. N63: CBS Oil Service Conversion in ISTA/P. The CBS oil service conversion performed for the N63 Customer Car Package and timing chain check (SI B11 16 14) does not work correctly for the above models with the current version of ISTA/P. After the conversion, the forecast interval does not change to the desired 10,000 miles/12 months, or the forecast is displayed as an invalid value, for example: 25,000 miles/24 months. 1. Incorrect DME coding or calibration data, which is being investigated. 2. The ISTA CBS correction test plan contains an error when attempting to correct an invalid oil service prognosis value.
B1106142018-12-17. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. "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) Note: Due to ongoing quality control monitoring, testing of the Bosch fuel system low-pressure sensor showed that replacement of the fuel system low-pressure sensor with Index 1 is no longer required in this customer care package. Refer to the attached procedure for the applicable replacement instructions regarding the fuel system low-pressure sensor. This engine care package also includes a multi-point inspection of the vehicle, including tire pressures, fluid levels, safety and convenience features. The N63CCP is NOT a mandatory Technical Campaign or Recall (per the authorities). It should only be completed based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the customer's schedule. Complete all other applicable open Campaigns per the DCS Warranty inquiry and the Key Reader. Perform all recommended, due or qualifying ""time-based"" maintenance service task items as directed by the Key Reader/ISPA Light application. When eligible, also perform the procedure described in SI B61 30 14: 12-Volt Battery Replacement together with performing the N63 Customer Care Package. After completing all the necessary repairs, the vehicle needs to be road tested for 30 minutes to assure the highest standard of performed repairs (Please see ""Warranty Inf
B2703152018-12-10. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Vibration or Shudder from Driveline when Accelerating from a Stop. Chassis stabilization warning is displayed. Vehicle may exhibit a shudder or vibration when taking off from a stop. One or more of the following fault codes may be stored: LMV ? 440101 - Transfer box (VTG): End of transmission service life reached ? 440105 - Transfer box (VTG ) Calibration Faulty ? 440115 - Transfer box (VTG): Calibration angle deviation outside tolerance? 44011B - Set torque outside of the torque characteristic curve EGS ? 420611 - DSC interface (wheel speed): non-permitted deviation of wheel speed (actual speed of wheel RL/FL/RR/FR, 0x254) from output speed and turbine speed DSC ? 48097D - Transfer box: Fault, clutch position known, only rear-wheel drive These symptoms or faults would be stored on a vehicle with low mileage (< 12,500 miles). CAUSE A front or rear differential with the incorrect gear ratio was installed in the car. The front and rear differentials need to be geared exactly the same for the xDrive to function properly.
B1117152018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE; EQUIPMENT. "N63 and S63 Engine: Upper Oil Pan Removal and Installation Procedures. INFORMATION When removing and/or installing the N63 or S63 engine ""upper"" oil pan assembly, the oil pan can sustain damage if this operation is not performed correctly. Before loosening or tightening the upper oil pan bolts as per Repair Instruction 11 13 010 ""Removing and installing /replacing upper oil sump (N63),"" the steps outlined in the attachment of this bulletin must be followed. Refer to attached document and the instruction section that applies to the procedure being carried out. The ISTA/D repair instructions are currently being revised."
B1113152018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE. The plastic oil filter housing may fail and lead to an internal and/or external engine oil or coolant leak.
B1111152018-12-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Service Action: Replace the Thermostat. The Service Engine Soon light is on with corresponding fault codes in the DME for the engine thermostat.
B6210162018-12-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. HeadUp Display does not Show Full Street Names. INFORMATION Design of the HUD has limited display area. (It can only show a certain number of text characters). NOTE: Parts replacement or programming the vehicle will not recitify the situation!
B6130142018-12-10. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY. "BMW Maintenance Program: 12-Volt Battery Replacement Measure. INFORMATION This bulletin outlines a customer satisfaction measure that has been designed exclusively for the BMW vehicles listed above. It involves the replacement of the 12-volt battery as a preventive maintenance measure. This 12-volt battery replacement measure is: Effective for repairs dated on or after January 1, 2015. Applicable to vehicles that are still covered by the BMW Maintenance Program. This program is valid for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. The calculation is based on the current date of repair. It is ""applicable"" when the 12volt battery was not replaced within the last 12 months. You can then perform the battery replacement as outlined below. Please check the warranty claim history for the specific vehicle in the DCSnet Warranty Vehicle Inquiry to confirm the battery was not already replaced within the previous 12 months."
B1205162018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE; FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. "N55 - ENGINE MALFUNCTION WARNING DUE TO VAPOR FORMING IN THE FUEL SYSTEM This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B12 05 16 dated April 2016. The Engine ""Drivetrain Malfunction"" Check Control warning is displayed and the Service Engine Soon (MIL) Lamp may also be on. In areas where winterized fuel is used, this situation may occur after prolonged periods of engine idling or ""stop and go"" driving. Additional symptoms that may be present: rough running poor engine performance difficulty in starting the engine. Either or both of the following fault codes can be stored in the DME. 11A002 - Fuel high pressure, plausibility: Pressure too low 11AC02 - Fuel high pressure, plausibility, cold start: Pressure too low In addition any of the following faults may also be stored: 119404 - Rail pressure sensor, signal: Permanently stuck 118001 - Mixture control: mixture too lean 118401 - Mixture control: mixture too lean; large deviation Vapor formation in the fuel system from fuel quality characteristics of certain winter fuel blends along with high engine compartment temperatures."
B1107162018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE; ENGINE. Diesel Engine: Intake Manifold Damaged. The Service Engine Soon light is on. There may also be: Complaints of lack of engine performance An exhaust smell coming from the engine area. The following fault codes may be stored in the DDE: 24CE00 - Hot film air mass meter: Ratio of measured to calculated air mass too high 27F000 - Charge air hose monitoring in idle: Charge air hose fallen down 290900 - Air system, air to EGR air mass flow plausibility: Measured air mass compared to calculated air mass too high 290A00 - Air system, air to EGR air mass flow plausibility: measured air mass compared to calculated air mass too high and high charging pressure control deviation 1. Excessive thermal load from the EGR system on the intake components 2. An excessive or unmetered air leak in the intake/charge air system
B8403142018-12-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT. Bluetooth Connection Failures. There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple iPhones Samsung S6 and the S6 Edge. Connectivity failure examples are: Call disconnection - Call is transferred back to the handset. In some instances the call is then transferred back to the vehicle. Contact List incomplete General connection failures Apple iOS software (issue started with iOS 8.3 continues with iOS 9.x and its variants) Samsung S6 and S6 Edge device firmware.
B6609162018-12-10. Service bulletin. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL; EQUIPMENT; FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL. """Collision Warning Failed"" or ""Pedestrian Warning Failed"" CCM Display. While driving, a Check Control Message (CCM) is displayed advising of the following: Front collision warning failed Pedestrian detection failed The following fault code is stored in the KAFAS (Camera-based Driver Assistance System): 0X800AC4 - Camera calibration failed The KAFAS camera is not properly mounted and secured to the mounting bracket on the windshield; And/ or: The mounting bracket glued to the windshield is not installed correctly. The pictures below show both incorrect and correct installation. This picture shows the KAFAS camera installed in the bracket. Notice the spacing highlighted by the ""green lines"""
B6512162018-12-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Integrated Navigation Voice Not Loud Enough. Integrated Navigation voice guidance is not loud enough to be heard over loud music. Software error in the CHAMP2 Head Unit.
B6207162018-12-10. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. Unintentional Active ECO-PRO Bonus Miles Reset. Fluctations of fuel level (causing resistance changes in the level sensor) while vehicle is stationary, are interpreted as refueling. This causes active ECO PRO mode bonus range to reset. Error in instrument cluster application.
B3701152018-12-10. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM. Service Action: Replace Left Rear Air Spring. Torsional stress can cause the threaded fabric of the left air spring bellow to rupture and lose its airtightness. If the air spring is not airtight, the vehicle will lean on one side.
B3206162018-12-10. Service bulletin. STEERING. Troubleshooting intermittent Steering Assistance with Electric Power Steering (EPS). Intermittent steering assistance failure CAUSE The power supply of the EPS control unit.
B1117152018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE; EQUIPMENT. "N63, N63TU and N63R Engines: Upper Oil Pan Removal and Installation Repair Instructions This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B11 17 15 dated August 2015.. INFORMATION When removing and/or installing the engine upper oil pan assembly, the oil pan can sustain damage if this operation is not performed correctly. Before loosening or tightening the engine upper oil pan refer to the newly released Repair Instruction 11 13 010 ""Removing and installing/replacing upper oil sump"" in ISTA/D 3.55.11 or higher for the proper procedures. IMPORTANT: The new repair instructions will state one of the following before reinstalling the upper engine oil pan. ""All threads must be cleaned with screw tap"" Or ""Clean all threads with screw tap. Order number 81 43 0 402 559"" Or ""Clean all threads with a thread cutter"". The current repair instruction terminology will be modified to include this information."
B1109162018-12-10. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY:BELL HOUSING; POWER TRAIN. N63, N63TU, S63 and S63TU Engines: Oil Leak from the Rear of the Engine and Transmission Bell Housing. Customer complains that engine oil is leaking from the center of the vehicle. When verified, the engine oil residue can be seen leaking from between the engine and the transmission bell housing.
B1108152018-12-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE. N63 and S63 Engine: Valve Seal Replacement This Service Information bulletin and attachment supersedes SI B11 08 15 dated March 2016. Refer to the following applicable SIBs before replacing the valve seals. SI B11 07 11 - Turbocharger Failure: Oil Supply and Return Line Blockage and Proper Repairs SI B11 07 12 - N63 Engine: Oil Consumption and/or Rough Running Complaints SI B11 01 13 - N63 Engine: Engine Oil Consumption, Engine Oil Top-ups and Refill Capacity SI B11 03 13 - Engine Oil Consumption (all models) If the valve seals are leaking, one of the following will help determine if the seals should be replaced. Smoke from the tailpipe when starting or aggressively accelerating and decelerating the engine Excessive engine oil consumption Spark plugs fouled with engine oil

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