BMW 550i 2003-2010

BMW 550i 2003-2010 Fuel System Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the fuel system of the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, covering fuel type, pressure, injectors, pump, and emission compliance. Essential for maintenance and repair.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the fuel specifications for the 2003-2010 BMW 550I, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section provides essential information on fuel requirements, system components, and performance specifications to ensure optimal vehicle operation.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific fuel specifications by entering keywords such as 'octane rating', 'fuel capacity', or 'injection system'.

Navigate through the fuel documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each section is clearly labeled for easy reference.

Key Specifications

Fuel Type

Premium unleaded gasoline (91 AKI)

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Fuel Pressure

5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Fuel Economy

18 mpg (combined)

Emissions Standard

ULEV II / Euro 4

Available Specifications

Fuel Requirements

This section outlines the fuel type, octane rating, and additives recommended for the BMW 550I to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

Fuel Type and Octane Rating

Premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
Do not use gasoline with an octane rating below 89 AKI to prevent engine knocking
Ethanol blends up to 10% (E10) are acceptable
Avoid using diesel or other non-gasoline fuels

Fuel Additives

Use BMW-approved fuel additives to maintain fuel system cleanliness
Avoid additives containing methanol or silicone
Additives should meet BMW specification BMW 13 1 7
Regular use of additives is recommended for high-mileage vehicles

Note: Using non-approved additives may void the vehicle's warranty.

Fuel System Components

This section details the key components of the BMW 550I fuel system, including the fuel tank, fuel pump, and fuel injectors.

Fuel Tank

Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) for durability and corrosion resistance
Includes an integrated fuel level sensor
Designed to minimize fuel sloshing and evaporation

Fuel Pump and Injectors

Electric fuel pump with a flow rate of 120 liters per hour (L/h)
Fuel pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi) at idle
Direct fuel injection system with piezo injectors
Injector spray pattern optimized for efficient combustion

Note: Ensure fuel pump and injectors are inspected during routine maintenance.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

This section covers the fuel efficiency ratings and emissions standards for the BMW 550I, including EPA estimates and compliance with environmental regulations.

Fuel Efficiency

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 15 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
Combined fuel economy: 18 mpg
Fuel consumption rate: 12.4 L/100 km (combined)
Equipped with BMW EfficientDynamics for improved fuel efficiency

Emissions Compliance

Meets ULEV II (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) standards
Equipped with a catalytic converter and oxygen sensors
Complies with Euro 4 emissions standards
Onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) monitor emissions performance

Note: Regular emissions system checks are required to maintain compliance.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Fuel Type

Recommended Fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline (91 AKI or 95 RON minimum)

Alternative Fuel: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 AKI or 91 RON) with reduced performance

Ethanol Content: Up to 10% ethanol (E10) allowed

Octane Rating: Minimum 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)

Fuel Additives: BMW-approved fuel additives recommended for cleaning injectors

Fuel System

Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Fuel Pump Pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Fuel injector Type: Solenoid-operated multi-hole injectors

Fuel Filter Part Number: 13 32 7 585 273

Fuel Pump Part Number: 16 14 7 178 466

Fuel Delivery

injection Type: Direct fuel injection

injection Pressure: 50-200 bar (725-2900 psi)

injection Timing: Electronically controlled, variable timing

Fuel Rail Part Number: 13 53 7 585 274

Fuel Consumption

City Mpg: 15 mpg

Highway Mpg: 23 mpg

Combined Mpg: 18 mpg

Co2 Emissions: 330 g/km

Fuel Economy Class: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5

Fuel Tank

Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Vent System: Closed-loop evaporative emission control system

Tank Part Number: 16 11 7 178 467

Fuel Pressure Regulator

Type: Mechanical diaphragm regulator

Operating Pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Tolerance: +/- 0.2 bar (2.9 psi)

Part Number: 13 54 7 585 275

Fuel Quality Requirements

Sulfur Content: Maximum 10 ppm

Detergent Additives: Must meet BMW LL-04 standards

Water Content: Maximum 0.02% by volume

Contaminants: No visible particles or debris

Fuel System Maintenance

Fuel Filter Replacement interval: Every 30,000 miles or 36 months

Fuel injector Cleaning Interval: Every 60,000 miles or 72 months

Fuel Tank Cleaning Interval: As needed, based on diagnostic codes

Fuel Pump inspection Interval: Every 60,000 miles or 72 months

Fuel System Diagnostics

Diagnostic Tool: BMW ISTA/D or compatible OBD-II scanner

Common Codes

P0171
P0172
P0181
P0191

Pressure Test Requirements: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi) +/- 0.2 bar (2.9 psi)

Leak Test Requirements: No leaks at 0.5 bar (7.25 psi) for 10 minutes

Safety information

Fire Hazard: Avoid open flames or sparks near fuel system

Pressure Release: Depressurize fuel system before servicing

Toxic Fumes: Work in well-ventilated areas

Spill Cleanup: Use absorbent materials and dispose of properly

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the fuel system

30,000 miles

36 months

Replace fuel filter
Inspect fuel lines for leaks
Check fuel pump pressure

Use BMW-approved parts and tools

60,000 miles

72 months

Clean fuel injectors
Inspect fuel tank for debris
Test fuel pressure regulator

Perform diagnostic scan for fuel system codes

100,000 miles

120 months

Replace fuel pump
Inspect fuel rail for cracks
Check fuel tank vent system

Replace all seals and gaskets during service

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of fuel is recommended for the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

The 2003-2010 BMW 550i requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using lower octane fuel may result in reduced performance and engine knocking.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

The fuel tank capacity of the 2003-2010 BMW 550i is approximately 18.5 gallons (70 liters).

Can I use ethanol-blended fuel in the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

The 2003-2010 BMW 550i can use ethanol-blended fuels with up to 10% ethanol (E10). However, fuels with higher ethanol content (e.g., E15 or E85) are not recommended as they can cause damage to the fuel system and engine components.

What is the fuel consumption of the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

The 2003-2010 BMW 550i has an estimated fuel consumption of 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, depending on driving conditions and maintenance.

How often should I replace the fuel filter on the 2003-2010 BMW 550i?

The fuel filter on the 2003-2010 BMW 550i should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. A clogged fuel filter can lead to poor engine performance and fuel delivery issues.

What should I do if I accidentally use the wrong type of fuel?

If you accidentally use fuel with an octane rating lower than 91 or a high ethanol blend, avoid driving the vehicle and contact a BMW-certified technician immediately. Draining the fuel tank may be necessary to prevent engine damage.

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 Fuel System Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the fuel system of the 2003-2010 BMW 550i, including fuel filter replacement and fuel injector cleaning.

Understanding Octane Ratings

Coming Soon

An explanation of octane ratings and their importance for high-performance engines like the BMW 550i.

Ethanol-Blended Fuels and Your BMW

Coming Soon

Learn about the effects of ethanol-blended fuels on BMW vehicles and how to use them safely.

BMW Fuel Efficiency Tips

Coming Soon

Tips and tricks to improve fuel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption in your BMW 550i.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.