BMW 550i 2011-2016

BMW 550i 2011-2016 Fuel System Specifications

Detailed technical guide for the 2011-2016 BMW 550i fuel system, covering fuel type, pressure, injector specs, pump performance, and diagnostics. Essential for technicians and BMW enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the fuel specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 550I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

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

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 (91 AKI / 95 RON)

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Fuel Pump Pressure

5.8 bar (84 psi)

CO2 Emissions

199 g/km

Fuel Consumption

11.2 L/100 km (city), 7.1 L/100 km (highway)

Available Specifications

Fuel Type and Quality

Details about the recommended fuel type, quality standards, and performance requirements for the BMW 550I

Recommended Fuel Type

Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (95 RON) or higher
Minimum octane rating of 89 AKI (93 RON) is acceptable but may reduce performance
Use of lower octane fuel may cause engine knocking and reduced efficiency
Ethanol content should not exceed 10% (E10)

Fuel Quality Standards

Fuel must meet ASTM D4814 standards for gasoline
Avoid fuels with high sulfur content to prevent catalytic converter damage
Use of fuel additives is not recommended unless approved by BMW
Ensure fuel is free from contaminants such as water or debris

Note: Using substandard fuel may void the vehicle's warranty.

Fuel System Specifications

Technical details about the fuel system, including capacity, pressure, and component specifications

Fuel Tank Capacity

Total fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Reserve fuel capacity: 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters)
Fuel tank material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Fuel tank design: Dual-chamber for improved safety and efficiency

Fuel Pump and Pressure

Electric fuel pump with a maximum pressure of 5.8 bar (84 psi)
Fuel pressure regulator integrated into the fuel pump module
Fuel filter integrated into the fuel pump assembly
Fuel delivery rate: 150 liters per hour (39.6 gallons per hour)

Note: Regular inspection of the fuel pump and filter is recommended for optimal performance.

Emission and Environmental Compliance

Information about the vehicle's compliance with emission standards and environmental regulations

Emission Standards

Complies with Euro 5 and ULEV II emission standards
Equipped with a three-way catalytic converter for reduced emissions
OBD-II compliant for real-time emission monitoring
Particulate filter not required for gasoline engines

Environmental Impact

CO2 emissions: 199 g/km (combined cycle)
Fuel consumption: 11.2 L/100 km (21 mpg) city, 7.1 L/100 km (33 mpg) highway
Designed to minimize evaporative emissions with a sealed fuel system
Recyclable fuel system components to reduce environmental impact

Note: Regular maintenance is essential to maintain emission 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)

Notes: Using fuel with higher ethanol content may cause engine damage and void warranty

Fuel Tank

Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)

Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

Part Number: 16117308075

Pressure Rating: 3.0 psi (20.7 kPa)

Notes: Includes integrated fuel pump and level sensor

Fuel Pump

Type: Electric in-tank fuel pump

Flow Rate: 120 liters per hour (LPH)

Pressure: 5.0 bar (72.5 psi)

Voltage: 12V DC

Part Number: 16146757289

Notes: Includes fuel filter and pressure regulator

Fuel injectors

Type: Direct injection (DI)

Flow Rate: 200 cc/min at 3.0 bar

Part Number: 13647596179

Spray Pattern: Multi-hole

Notes: Requires periodic cleaning to maintain performance

Fuel Pressure

Operating Pressure: 200 bar (2900 psi)

Tolerance: +/- 10 bar

Sensor Part Number: 13627837922

Notes: High-pressure fuel system for direct injection

Fuel Filter

Type: Integrated with fuel pump

Micron Rating: 10 microns

Replacement interval: Every 60,000 miles or 60 months

Part Number: 16146757289

Notes: Non-serviceable, replace entire fuel pump assembly

Fuel System Maintenance

injector Cleaning Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 30 months

Fuel Tank Cleaning Interval: Every 100,000 miles or 10 years

Notes: Use BMW-approved fuel system cleaner for injector maintenance

Fuel System Diagnostics

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

Common Codes

P0171
P0172
P0087
P0088

Notes: Check fuel pressure, injector performance, and pump operation

Fuel System Safety

Fire Risk: High-pressure fuel system, avoid open flames

Pressure Relief: Always depressurize system before servicing

Notes: Follow BMW repair manual procedures for safety

Fuel System Cross References

Related Components

High-pressure fuel pump (part number: 13537585251)
Fuel rail (part number: 13537585252)
Fuel pressure sensor (part number: 13627837922)

Notes: Ensure all components are compatible with N63 engine

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the fuel system

30,000 miles

30 months

Inspect fuel injectors
Clean fuel injectors
Check fuel pressure

Use BMW-approved cleaning solutions

60,000 miles

60 months

Replace fuel filter (integrated with pump)
Inspect fuel pump performance
Check fuel tank for leaks

Replace fuel pump assembly if necessary

100,000 miles

10 years

Clean fuel tank
Inspect fuel lines and connections
Replace high-pressure fuel pump if needed

Follow BMW repair manual for detailed procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of fuel is recommended for the 2011-2016 BMW 550i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 550i requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) or higher. Using lower octane fuel may result in reduced performance and engine knocking.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2011-2016 BMW 550i?

The fuel tank capacity of the 2011-2016 BMW 550i is 18.5 gallons (70 liters). This allows for a driving range of approximately 400-500 miles depending on driving conditions and fuel efficiency.

Can I use ethanol-blended fuel in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i?

Yes, the 2011-2016 BMW 550i can use ethanol-blended fuels containing up to 10% ethanol (E10). However, fuels with higher ethanol concentrations, such as E85, are not recommended as they can damage the fuel system and void the warranty.

What is the fuel economy of the 2011-2016 BMW 550i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 550i has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance.

How often should I replace the fuel filter in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i?

The fuel filter in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle under normal driving conditions. However, if you experience reduced performance or fuel delivery issues, it is recommended to inspect and replace the fuel filter as needed.

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 2011-2016 BMW 550i, including fuel filter replacement and fuel injector cleaning.

BMW Fuel Specifications and Recommendations

Coming Soon

Official BMW documentation outlining fuel specifications, recommended fuel types, and ethanol blend limits for the 2011-2016 BMW 550i.

BMW Fuel Efficiency Tips

Coming Soon

Practical tips and driving techniques to maximize fuel efficiency in the 2011-2016 BMW 550i.

BMW Warranty and Fuel System Coverage

Coming Soon

Information on how using improper fuel types or additives can affect your BMW warranty and fuel system coverage.

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