2013 BMW 550I
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 15
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2013
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2013: 15 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 23 |
| 2007 | 37 |
| 2008 | 32 |
| 2009 | 2 |
| 2010 | 11 |
| 2011 | 84 |
| 2012 | 36 |
| 2013 | 15 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2017 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
8 of 15 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2013 BMW 550I. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled without warning. The contact was able to coast into the driveway.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-04-17
While drive below 30 MPH, the front driveshaft broke and ruptured a hole in the engine's upper oil pan. The flexible joint or universal joint seized and broke the front part of the front driveshaft.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-08-11
Also filed under Fuel/propulsion system
Engine continues to burn through oil approximately every 1,500 miles, which could leave the vehicle stranded and inoperable. It's unacceptable in a brand new vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-08-10
Also filed under Power train
Fuel/propulsion system
4 of 15 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Power train
3 of 15 total reports mention: power train.
Seats
2 of 15 total reports mention: seats.
Show complaint excerpts
I started the car and turned on the heated seats and went inside. I came back out a few minutes later and sat down. I smelled burning plastic and couldn't figure it out until my backside was burned by the heating element.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-03-19
Wheels
1 of 15 total reports mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
I have goodyear 245/40R19 run flats on my vehicle. A huge bubble came up and I took it to the dealership. They said it was due to impact and not covered on my warranty. I know, there has been no impact.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-11-15
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2017-07-27Exterior lighting15V188000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear reflex reflectors, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Buy-smart checklist
2013 BMW 550I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 15V188000 · Exterior lighting
FAQ
- Is the 2013 BMW 550I reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2013 BMW 550I?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 53% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2013 BMW 550I have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.