BMW 650i 2012-2017 Drivetrain Specifications
BMW 650i 2012-2017

BMW 650i 2012-2017 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2012-2017 BMW 650i, including engine, transmission, transfer case, and differential components.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2012-2017 BMW 650I, 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 'drive shaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the desired section from the table of contents. Use the expandable subsections to access detailed technical information.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP45)

Final Drive Ratio

2.81:1

Maximum Torque Capacity

450 Nm (332 lb-ft)

Drive Shaft Length

1,250 mm (49.2 inches)

xDrive Engagement Time

100 milliseconds

Available Specifications

Transmission System

Detailed information about the transmission system, including type, gear ratios, and performance specifications

8-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Type: ZF 8HP45 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Gear ratios: 1st - 4.714, 2nd - 3.143, 3rd - 2.106, 4th - 1.667, 5th - 1.285, 6th - 1.000, 7th - 0.839, 8th - 0.667
  • Reverse gear ratio: 3.317
  • Maximum torque capacity: 450 Nm (332 lb-ft)
  • Shift times: 200 milliseconds in Sport mode
Transmission Fluid Specifications
  • Fluid type: ZF Lifeguard 8
  • Capacity: 9.5 liters (10.0 quarts)
  • Fluid change interval: 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 8 years
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)

Note: Use only manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Differential System

Technical details about the differential system, including type, ratios, and performance characteristics

Rear Differential
  • Type: Electronically controlled limited-slip differential
  • Final drive ratio: 2.81:1
  • Maximum torque distribution: 100% to either rear wheel
  • Differential fluid capacity: 1.2 liters (1.3 quarts)
  • Fluid type: BMW SAF-XJ + FM booster
Differential Cooling System
  • Cooling type: Integrated oil cooler
  • Cooling fluid capacity: 0.5 liters (0.53 quarts)
  • Operating temperature range: -30°C to 120°C (-22°F to 248°F)
  • Cooling system pressure: 1.5 bar (21.8 psi)

Note: Regularly inspect the differential cooling system for leaks or blockages to prevent overheating.

Drive Shaft and Axles

Specifications and details about the drive shaft and axle components

Drive Shaft
  • Material: High-strength steel with carbon fiber reinforcement
  • Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 inches)
  • Maximum torque capacity: 600 Nm (443 lb-ft)
  • Weight: 12.5 kg (27.6 lbs)
Rear Axle
  • Type: Multi-link independent suspension
  • Axle ratio: 3.08:1
  • Maximum load capacity: 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs)
  • Wheel hub torque specification: 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft)

Note: Ensure proper torque specifications are followed during axle assembly to prevent component failure.

All-Wheel Drive System (xDrive)

Technical specifications and features of the optional all-wheel drive system

xDrive System Overview
  • Type: Electronically controlled all-wheel drive
  • Torque distribution: Up to 100% to front or rear axle
  • System weight: 75 kg (165 lbs)
  • Engagement time: 100 milliseconds
Transfer Case
  • Type: Active torque distribution with multi-plate clutch
  • Fluid capacity: 1.0 liter (1.06 quarts)
  • Fluid type: BMW TF0870
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 140°C (-40°F to 284°F)

Note: Regularly check the transfer case fluid level and condition to ensure proper operation.

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
N63B44O0 TwinPower Turbo V8
Displacement
4.4L
Horsepower
445 hp @ 5500-6400 rpm
Torque
480 lb-ft @ 1750-4500 rpm
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Fuel System
Direct Injection
Part Number
11002407989

Transmission

Type
8-speed automatic (GA8HP70Z)
Gear Ratios
1st: 4.714:1
2nd: 3.143:1
3rd: 2.106:1
4th: 1.667:1
5th: 1.285:1
6th: 1.000:1
7th: 0.839:1
8th: 0.667:1
Reverse: 3.317:1
Part Number
24007588861
Fluid Capacity
9.5 liters
Fluid Type
BMW ATF-3

Transfer Case

Type
All-wheel drive (xDrive)
Gear Ratio
2.81:1
Part Number
27108659987
Fluid Capacity
1.2 liters
Fluid Type
BMW TF-0870

Differential

Front
Type: Open differential
Gear Ratio: 3.15:1
Part Number: 33107565543
Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Rear
Type: Limited-slip differential
Gear Ratio: 3.15:1
Part Number: 33107565544
Fluid Capacity: 1.3 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO

Driveshaft

Material
Aluminum
Length
1.5 meters
Part Number
26107565545
Torque Rating
480 lb-ft
Safety Note
Inspect for wear and balance every 30,000 miles

Axles

Front
Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31207565546
Torque Rating: 480 lb-ft
Safety Note: Inspect boots for cracks and leaks
Rear
Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31207565547
Torque Rating: 480 lb-ft
Safety Note: Inspect boots for cracks and leaks

Clutch

Type
Torque converter
Part Number
21507565548
Torque Capacity
480 lb-ft
Safety Note
Inspect for slippage and wear during service

Propeller Shaft

Material
Carbon fiber
Length
1.2 meters
Part Number
26107565549
Torque Rating
480 lb-ft
Safety Note
Inspect for balance and alignment every 30,000 miles

Mounts

Engine
Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22117565550
Torque Rating: 480 lb-ft
Safety Note: Inspect for wear and leaks
Transmission
Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22117565551
Torque Rating: 480 lb-ft
Safety Note: Inspect for wear and leaks

Operational Limits

Max Rpm
7000 rpm
Max Torque
480 lb-ft
Max Speed
155 mph (electronically limited)
Temperature Range
-40°C to 120°C
Safety Note
Do not exceed operational limits to avoid damage

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

10,000
12
  • Inspect drivetrain components for wear and damage
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition
  • Inspect differential fluid level and condition

Follow BMW-recommended service intervals for optimal performance

30,000
36
  • Replace transmission fluid and filter
  • Replace differential fluid
  • Inspect driveshaft and propeller shaft for balance and alignment

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

60,000
72
  • Inspect and replace worn drivetrain mounts
  • Check and replace worn CV joint boots
  • Inspect and replace worn clutch components

Perform thorough inspection to ensure drivetrain integrity

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2012-2017 BMW 650i use?

The 2012-2017 BMW 650i is equipped with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system known as xDrive. This system features a rear-biased torque distribution, typically sending 40% of power to the front wheels and 60% to the rear under normal conditions, with the ability to adjust torque dynamically based on driving conditions.

Q2

What is the transmission type and gear ratio for the 650i drivetrain?

The 2012-2017 BMW 650i comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP). The gear ratios are as follows: 1st (4.714), 2nd (3.143), 3rd (2.106), 4th (1.667), 5th (1.285), 6th (1.000), 7th (0.839), and 8th (0.667). The final drive ratio is 3.077.

Q3

What is the torque capacity of the 650i drivetrain?

The 2012-2017 BMW 650i drivetrain is designed to handle a maximum torque output of 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) from the 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine. The xDrive system and transmission are engineered to manage this torque efficiently across all driving conditions.

Q4

How often should the transfer case fluid be replaced in the 650i xDrive system?

BMW recommends replacing the transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Use only BMW-approved transfer case fluid (part number 83 22 2 282 583) to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Q5

What are the signs of drivetrain issues in the 650i?

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

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 xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical guide on the xDrive system, including its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.

8-Speed Automatic Transmission Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive service manual for the ZF 8HP transmission, including fluid replacement procedures and diagnostic codes.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Official catalog for BMW genuine drivetrain components, including part numbers and compatibility information.

Drivetrain Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

Detailed maintenance schedule for the 650i drivetrain, including fluid change intervals and inspection points.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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