BMW 550i 2011-2016

BMW 550i 2011-2016 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2011-2016 BMW 550i drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2011-2016 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', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the desired section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu for quick access to subsections.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

4.4L

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Horsepower

400 hp

Torque

450 lb-ft

Fuel Economy (Combined)

19 mpg

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

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

Engine Specifications

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 engine
Maximum power output: 400 hp at 5500-6400 rpm
Maximum torque: 450 lb-ft at 1750-4500 rpm
Direct fuel injection system
Compression ratio: 10.0:1

Transmission System

8-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic
Gear ratios: 4.71 (1st), 3.14 (2nd), 2.11 (3rd), 1.67 (4th), 1.29 (5th), 1.00 (6th), 0.84 (7th), 0.67 (8th)
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
Adaptive transmission control with sport mode
Integrated launch control system

Note: The transmission system is designed for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential components

Driveshaft Specifications

Two-piece aluminum driveshaft
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 in)
Diameter: 80 mm (3.15 in)
Balanced for high-speed operation
Weight: 12.5 kg (27.6 lbs)

Differential System

Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD)
Differential ratio: 3.15:1
Maximum torque distribution: 100% to either rear wheel
Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Weight: 28 kg (61.7 lbs)

Note: The eLSD enhances traction and stability during cornering.

Axles and Suspension

Information about the axles and suspension components related to the drivetrain

Axle Specifications

Front axle: Double-wishbone suspension
Rear axle: Integral V multi-link suspension
Axle load capacity: 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs) front, 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) rear
Axle track width: 1,610 mm (63.4 in) front, 1,620 mm (63.8 in) rear
Axle weight: 45 kg (99.2 lbs) front, 50 kg (110.2 lbs) rear

Suspension System

Adaptive air suspension with Dynamic Damper Control
Ride height adjustment range: 20 mm (0.79 in)
Spring rates: 25 N/mm front, 30 N/mm rear
Integrated with Dynamic Drive for roll stabilization
Weight: 75 kg (165.3 lbs)

Note: The suspension system provides a balance between comfort and sporty handling.

Performance and Efficiency

Performance metrics and efficiency details of the drivetrain system

Performance Metrics

0-60 mph acceleration: 4.8 seconds
Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Braking distance (60-0 mph): 110 ft
Drag coefficient: 0.30 Cd
Curb weight: 1,890 kg (4,167 lbs)

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 16 mpg
Highway fuel economy: 25 mpg
Combined fuel economy: 19 mpg
Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gallons
CO2 emissions: 278 g/km

Note: Fuel efficiency is optimized through advanced engine management and transmission systems.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Model: N63B

Displacement: 4.4L

Horsepower: 550 hp

Torque: 550 lb-ft

Compression Ratio: 10.0:1

Fuel Type: Premium unleaded gasoline

Transmission

Type: 8-speed automatic

Manufacturer: ZF Friedrichshafen

Part Number: ZF8HP70

Gear Ratios

1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.92
3rd: 2.00
4th: 1.47
5th: 1.18
6th: 0.92
7th: 0.73
8th: 0.58

Max Torque Capacity: 700 lb-ft

Drive Type

Configuration: All-wheel drive (AWD)

Transfer Case Part Number: BMW550I-TC001

Front Axle Type: Independent suspension

Rear Axle Type: Independent suspension

Differential

Front Differential Type: Limited slip

Rear Differential Type: Limited slip

Differential Part Number: BMW550I-DIF001

Max Torque Capacity: 500 lb-ft

Clutch

Type: Hydraulic

Part Number: BMW550I-CLT001

Max Torque Capacity: 550 lb-ft

Operating Pressure: 200 psi

Maintenance Interval: Every 50,000 miles

Propulsion System

Drive Shaft Part Number: BMW550I-DS001

Drive Shaft Material: High-strength steel

Drive Shaft Length: 1.2 m

Drive Shaft Diameter: 40 mm

Drive Shaft Torque Capacity: 600 lb-ft

Cooling System

Coolant Type: BMW Coolant Premium

Coolant Capacity: 10 L

Coolant Part Number: BMW550I-COOL001

Coolant Change interval: Every 2 years or 50,000 miles

Coolant Temperature Range: 50°C - 90°C

Lubrication System

Oil Type: BMW Synthetic Oil

Oil Capacity: 8 L

Oil Part Number: BMW550I-OIL001

Oil Change interval: Every 10,000 miles

Oil Temperature Range: 60°C - 100°C

Safety Specifications

Max Speed: 250 km/h

Max Torque: 700 lb-ft

Max Engine Temp: 110°C

Max Oil Pressure: 300 psi

Max Coolant Temp: 90°C

Diagnostic Specifications

Diagnostic Tool: BMW Diagnostic Software v3.0

Error Codes

P001: Engine Misfire
P002: Transmission Error
P003: Coolant Overheat
P004: Oil Pressure Low

Diagnostic interval: Every 20,000 miles

Diagnostic Part Number: BMW550I-DIA001

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10,000 miles

12 months

Oil change
Coolant check
Transmission fluid check

Ensure all fluids are within specified ranges

50,000 miles

24 months

Clutch inspection
Differential lubrication
Drive shaft inspection

Inspect for wear and replace if necessary

100,000 miles

48 months

Full drivetrain inspection
Replace all fluids
Check all safety specifications

Comprehensive inspection required

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2011-2016 BMW 550i use?

The 2011-2016 BMW 550i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The drivetrain is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) and a 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, every 30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Fluid changes for the transmission and differential should be performed every 60,000 miles or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule.

What type of transmission fluid is required for the 8-speed automatic transmission?

The ZF 8HP transmission in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i requires ZF Lifeguard 8 transmission fluid (part number 83222307610). Approximately 7-9 liters of fluid are needed for a complete fluid change, depending on the procedure used.

How do I identify if my BMW 550i has the xDrive AWD system?

The xDrive AWD system can be identified by the 'xDrive' badge on the rear of the vehicle or by checking the vehicle identification number (VIN). Additionally, the presence of a transfer case and front driveshaft in the undercarriage confirms the AWD configuration.

What is the torque rating of the rear differential in the BMW 550i?

The rear differential in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i is rated to handle up to 450 lb-ft of torque. It uses a limited-slip differential (LSD) in RWD models to improve traction and handling during high-performance driving.

Can the drivetrain components be upgraded for higher performance?

Yes, aftermarket upgrades such as reinforced driveshafts, performance differentials, and upgraded transmission software are available. However, modifications may void the vehicle's warranty and should be performed by certified professionals 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 Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering inspection, maintenance, and repair procedures for the drivetrain components of the 2011-2016 BMW 550i.

ZF 8HP Transmission Fluid Change Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for performing a transmission fluid change on the ZF 8HP automatic transmission used in the BMW 550i.

xDrive AWD System Overview

Coming Soon

An in-depth explanation of the xDrive AWD system, including its operation, maintenance requirements, and common issues.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to find genuine drivetrain components for the 2011-2016 BMW 550i.

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