BMW 550i 2003-2010

BMW 550i 2003-2010 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2003-2010 BMW 550i. Includes engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and related component details.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2003-2010 BMW 550i, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission type', 'final drive ratio', or 'torque specifications'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the page navigation buttons at the bottom of each page.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

4.8L

Transmission Type

6-speed automatic

Final Drive Ratio

3.15:1

Maximum Torque

360 lb-ft

Tire Pressure

2.2 bar (32 psi)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission configuration, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications

4.8L V8 engine with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC)
Maximum power output: 360 hp at 6300 rpm
Maximum torque: 360 lb-ft at 3400 rpm
Compression ratio: 10.5:1
Fuel delivery: Direct injection

Transmission Details

6-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic manual mode
Transmission type: ZF 6HP19
Gear ratios: 1st - 4.17:1, 2nd - 2.34:1, 3rd - 1.52:1, 4th - 1.14:1, 5th - 0.87:1, 6th - 0.69:1
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
Transmission fluid capacity: 9.5 liters

Note: The transmission is equipped with adaptive shift logic for optimized performance.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential system, including materials and performance characteristics

Driveshaft Specifications

Material: High-strength steel with carbon fiber reinforcement
Length: 1.2 meters
Maximum torque capacity: 400 lb-ft
Balancing tolerance: ±0.5 grams

Differential Details

Type: Limited-slip differential (LSD)
Differential ratio: 3.15:1
Oil capacity: 1.2 liters
Oil type: SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

Note: The limited-slip differential enhances traction during cornering and slippery conditions.

Axles and Suspension

Information about the axle configuration and suspension system, including geometry and load capacity

Axle Specifications

Front axle: Independent double-wishbone suspension
Rear axle: Independent multi-link suspension
Axle load capacity: Front - 1200 kg, Rear - 1300 kg
Axle track width: Front - 1570 mm, Rear - 1580 mm

Suspension Details

Front suspension: Coil springs with gas-filled shock absorbers
Rear suspension: Air suspension with adaptive damping
Ride height adjustment range: ±20 mm
Suspension travel: Front - 150 mm, Rear - 160 mm

Note: The adaptive damping system adjusts suspension stiffness based on driving conditions.

Wheels and Tires

Specifications for the wheels and tires, including sizes, materials, and performance ratings

Wheel Specifications

Standard wheel size: 18x8 inches
Wheel material: Lightweight alloy
Bolt pattern: 5x120 mm
Center bore diameter: 72.5 mm

Tire Details

Standard tire size: 245/45R18
Tire type: High-performance summer tires
Load index: 98 (750 kg per tire)
Speed rating: Y (up to 300 km/h)

Note: Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure of 2.2 bar (32 psi) for optimal performance.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: N62B48 V8

Displacement: 4.8 L

Compression Ratio: 10.5:1

Max Power: 360 hp @ 6300 rpm

Max Torque: 360 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm

Fuel System: Direct injection

Part Number: 11007838385

Transmission

Type: 6-speed automatic (ZF 6HP19)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.17:1
2nd: 2.34:1
3rd: 1.52:1
4th: 1.14:1
5th: 0.87:1
6th: 0.69:1
Reverse: 3.40:1

Fluid Type: BMW ATF LT2

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 L

Part Number: 24007522861

Transfer Case

Type: All-wheel drive (xDrive)

Gear Ratio: 2.81:1

Fluid Type: BMW TF0870

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 L

Part Number: 27107563654

Differential

Front: Type: Open differential
Gear Ratio: 3.08:1
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Fluid Capacity: 1.1 L
Part Number: 33107563655

Rear: Type: Limited-slip differential
Gear Ratio: 2.81:1
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Fluid Capacity: 1.3 L
Part Number: 33107563656

Driveshaft

Material: Aluminum

Length: 1.5 m

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 26107563657

Axles

Front: Type: CV joint
Outer Diameter: 100 mm
inner Diameter: 80 mm
Part Number: 31207563658

Rear: Type: CV joint
Outer Diameter: 110 mm
inner Diameter: 90 mm
Part Number: 31207563659

Clutch

Type: Torque converter

Diameter: 280 mm

Material: Ceramic

Part Number: 21507563660

Propeller Shaft

Material: Steel

Length: 1.2 m

Diameter: 70 mm

Part Number: 26107563661

Mounts

Engine: Type: Hydraulic
Material: Rubber
Part Number: 22117563662

Transmission: Type: Hydraulic
Material: Rubber
Part Number: 22117563663

Operational Limits

Max Engine Rpm: 7000 rpm

Max Transmission Temp: 120°C

Max Differential Temp: 90°C

Max Torque Capacity: 400 lb-ft

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

15000

Check transmission fluid level
Inspect driveshaft for wear
Check differential fluid level

Use only BMW-approved fluids

30000

Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect axle boots for cracks

Follow torque specifications during reassembly

60000

Replace transfer case fluid
Inspect engine and transmission mounts
Check propeller shaft for balance

Use OEM parts for replacements

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2003-2010 BMW 550i use?

The 2003-2010 BMW 550i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system available on certain models. The drivetrain is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (6HP19 or 6HP26) and a 4.8L N62 V8 engine producing 360 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque.

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the driveshaft, differential, and transfer case (if equipped with xDrive), every 30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Fluid changes for the differential and transfer case should be performed every 60,000 miles or 6 years.

What type of differential fluid should be used in the 550i?

The BMW 550i requires SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for the differential. For xDrive models, the transfer case requires BMW-specific fluid (part number 83 22 2 282 583). Always use genuine BMW fluids or equivalents that meet BMW specifications.

How do I identify drivetrain issues in my 550i?

Common signs of drivetrain issues include unusual noises (e.g., clunking, whining, or grinding), vibrations during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, or a burning smell. If any of these symptoms occur, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a certified BMW technician immediately.

Can I upgrade the drivetrain components for better performance?

Yes, performance upgrades such as limited-slip differentials, reinforced driveshafts, and upgraded transmission software are available. However, modifications may void the vehicle's warranty and should be performed by a professional to ensure compatibility and safety.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 550i Drivetrain Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official BMW service manual detailing drivetrain maintenance, repair procedures, and specifications for the 2003-2010 550i.

Drivetrain Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing differential and transfer case fluids in the BMW 550i, including recommended products and tools.

Common Drivetrain Issues and Solutions

Coming Soon

A comprehensive list of common drivetrain problems in the 550i, along with diagnostic tips and repair solutions.

Performance Upgrades for the BMW 550i Drivetrain

Coming Soon

Explore aftermarket options for enhancing the performance and durability of your 550i's drivetrain components.

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