BMW 550i 2003-2010 Emissions & Sensors Specifications
BMW 550i 2003-2010

BMW 550i 2003-2010 Emissions & Sensors Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and troubleshooting guide for the emissions sensors system in the 2003-2010 BMW 550I. Learn about O2 sensors, NOx sensors, exhaust gas temperature sensors, and diagnostic procedures specific to the N62 V8 engine.

Updated

Overview Specifications

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

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific emissions_sensors specifications by entering keywords such as 'O2 sensor', 'NOx sensor', or 'temperature range'.

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Key Specifications

O2 Sensor Voltage Range

0.1V to 0.9V

NOx Sensor Operating Temp

-40°C to 500°C

EGT Sensor Accuracy

±2°C

Catalyst Temp Range

-40°C to 900°C

O2 Sensor Heater Resistance

6-10 ohms at 20°C

Available Specifications

Oxygen (O2) Sensors

Detailed information on the oxygen sensors used in the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, including their placement, functionality, and technical specifications.

Front O2 Sensor Specifications
  • Located in the exhaust manifold, pre-catalytic converter
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 900°C
  • Output voltage range: 0.1V to 0.9V
  • Response time: <100ms
  • Heater resistance: 6-10 ohms at 20°C
Rear O2 Sensor Specifications
  • Located post-catalytic converter
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 800°C
  • Output voltage range: 0.1V to 0.9V
  • Response time: <120ms
  • Heater resistance: 6-10 ohms at 20°C

Note: The rear O2 sensor is primarily used for monitoring catalytic converter efficiency.

Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensors

Technical details and specifications for the NOx sensors in the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, including their role in emissions control and performance metrics.

NOx Sensor Placement and Function
  • Located in the exhaust system, downstream of the SCR catalyst
  • Measures NOx concentration in exhaust gases
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 500°C
  • Output signal: 0-5V analog
  • Response time: <200ms
NOx Sensor Calibration
  • Calibration required every 100,000 miles
  • Calibration tolerance: ±5%
  • Sensor lifespan: ~150,000 miles
  • Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for NOx sensor errors: P2200-P2209

Note: Regular calibration ensures accurate NOx readings and optimal emissions control.

Temperature Sensors

Information on the temperature sensors used in the emissions system of the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, including their specifications and roles.

Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensors
  • Located in the exhaust manifold and downstream of the catalytic converter
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 1000°C
  • Output signal: 0-5V analog
  • Response time: <50ms
  • Accuracy: ±2°C
Catalyst Temperature Sensors
  • Mounted on the catalytic converter
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 900°C
  • Output signal: 0-5V analog
  • Response time: <60ms
  • Accuracy: ±3°C

Note: Catalyst temperature sensors are critical for preventing overheating and ensuring optimal catalytic converter performance.

Diagnostics and Maintenance

Guidelines for diagnosing and maintaining emissions sensors in the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, including common issues and troubleshooting steps.

Common Fault Codes
  • P0130-P0167: O2 sensor circuit malfunctions
  • P2200-P2209: NOx sensor-related faults
  • P0420: Catalyst efficiency below threshold
  • P2096: Post-catalyst fuel trim system too lean
Maintenance Recommendations
  • Inspect sensors every 30,000 miles
  • Replace O2 sensors every 100,000 miles
  • Clean sensor connectors during routine maintenance
  • Use OEM or equivalent replacement parts

Note: Regular maintenance ensures accurate sensor readings and compliance with emissions standards.

Component Specifications

Oxygen Sensors

Type
Zirconia-based O2 sensor
Location
  • Pre-catalytic converter
  • Post-catalytic converter
Operating Temperature
300°C to 850°C
Response Time
Less than 100 ms
Part Number
  • 11 78 7 512 387
  • 11 78 7 512 388
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Catalytic converter
Tolerances
Voltage Output: 0.1V to 0.9V
Lambda Value: 0.97 to 1.03

Nitrogen Oxide Sensors

Type
NOx sensor
Location
Downstream of catalytic converter
Operating Temperature
200°C to 900°C
Response Time
Less than 500 ms
Part Number
11 78 7 512 389
Cross References
  • SCR system
  • DDE control unit
Tolerances
NOx Concentration: 0 ppm to 1000 ppm
Accuracy: ±5%

Mass Air Flow Sensor

Type
Hot-film air mass sensor
Location
Intake manifold
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 120°C
Output Signal
0V to 5V
Part Number
13 62 7 512 390
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Throttle valve
Tolerances
Air Flow Range: 0 kg/h to 1000 kg/h
Accuracy: ±2%

Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors

Type
NTC thermistor
Location
  • Pre-catalytic converter
  • Post-catalytic converter
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 1000°C
Response Time
Less than 10 seconds
Part Number
  • 11 78 7 512 391
  • 11 78 7 512 392
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Catalytic converter
Tolerances
Temperature Accuracy: ±5°C

Catalytic Converter Efficiency Sensor

Type
O2 sensor-based efficiency monitor
Location
Post-catalytic converter
Operating Temperature
300°C to 850°C
Response Time
Less than 100 ms
Part Number
11 78 7 512 393
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Oxygen sensors
Tolerances
Efficiency Threshold: 95% conversion efficiency

Evaporative Emissions Sensor

Type
Pressure sensor
Location
Fuel tank
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 85°C
Pressure Range
-15 kPa to +15 kPa
Part Number
16 14 7 512 394
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Fuel tank vent valve
Tolerances
Pressure Accuracy: ±0.5 kPa

Differential Pressure Sensor

Type
Piezoresistive sensor
Location
Diesel particulate filter
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 150°C
Pressure Range
0 kPa to 10 kPa
Part Number
11 78 7 512 395
Cross References
  • DDE control unit
  • DPF system
Tolerances
Pressure Accuracy: ±0.2 kPa

Ambient Air Temperature Sensor

Type
NTC thermistor
Location
Front bumper
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 85°C
Response Time
Less than 5 seconds
Part Number
65 81 7 512 396
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Climate control system
Tolerances
Temperature Accuracy: ±2°C

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

Type
NTC thermistor
Location
Engine coolant outlet
Operating Temperature
-40°C to 130°C
Response Time
Less than 10 seconds
Part Number
11 62 7 512 397
Cross References
  • DME control unit
  • Cooling system
Tolerances
Temperature Accuracy: ±3°C

Diagnostic Specifications

Fault Codes
  • P0130
  • P0135
  • P0420
  • P0430
  • P2201
Diagnostic Tools
  • BMW ISTA
  • OBD-II scanner
Test Conditions
Engine Running: Yes
Operating Temperature: Above 70°C
Idle Speed: 600 rpm to 800 rpm
Tolerances
Voltage Range: 0.1V to 0.9V
Lambda Range: 0.97 to 1.03

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for emissions sensors

50000
24
  • Inspect oxygen sensors for contamination
  • Check NOx sensor functionality
  • Verify catalytic converter efficiency

Replace sensors if fault codes persist after cleaning

100000
48
  • Replace oxygen sensors
  • Inspect exhaust gas temperature sensors
  • Check differential pressure sensor calibration

Use OEM parts for replacement to ensure compatibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the function of the oxygen sensor in the 2003-2010 BMW 550i emissions system?

The oxygen sensor (O2 sensor) monitors the oxygen content in the exhaust gases. It provides real-time feedback to the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion, ensuring compliance with emissions standards. The sensor operates at a voltage range of 0.1V (lean mixture) to 0.9V (rich mixture).

Q2

How often should the emissions sensors be replaced on a 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

BMW recommends inspecting the emissions sensors every 60,000 miles. Replacement intervals vary based on driving conditions, but typically, oxygen sensors should be replaced every 90,000-120,000 miles. Faulty sensors may trigger the Check Engine Light (CEL) and require immediate attention.

Q3

What are the symptoms of a failing emissions sensor in a 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

Common symptoms include increased fuel consumption, rough idling, poor acceleration, a persistent Check Engine Light (CEL), and failed emissions tests. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) such as P0130 (O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction) or P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) may also indicate sensor issues.

Q4

Can I replace the emissions sensors myself on a 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

While it is possible to replace emissions sensors yourself, it requires specialized tools and knowledge of the vehicle's exhaust system. Proper torque specifications (typically 30-50 Nm) must be followed to avoid damage. Improper installation can lead to exhaust leaks or sensor failure. Professional service is recommended.

Q5

What is the difference between upstream and downstream oxygen sensors in the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

Upstream sensors (pre-catalytic converter) monitor the air-fuel ratio for engine performance, while downstream sensors (post-catalytic converter) measure the efficiency of the catalytic converter. Both sensors are critical for emissions control and engine management.

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 Emissions System Technical Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering the emissions system components, including sensors, catalytic converters, and ECU integration for the 2003-2010 BMW 550i.

Oxygen Sensor Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for safely replacing oxygen sensors on the 2003-2010 BMW 550i, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Diagnosing Emissions Sensor Faults

Coming Soon

Learn how to diagnose and troubleshoot common emissions sensor issues using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specialized tools.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to ensure you are using genuine emissions sensors and components for your 2003-2010 BMW 550i.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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