The Bmw 650i, with its blend of luxury and performance, remains a desirable car for many. However, prospective buyers, especially those considering a used model, should approach with informed caution, particularly concerning the engine under the hood: the N63TU. While offering robust power, the N63TU engine, like its predecessor, has garnered attention for potential reliability issues that are crucial to understand before making a purchase.
BMW’s V8 engines, while not their most common configuration, have developed a reputation – and not always a positive one. The N63 engine, which preceded the N63TU, is particularly notorious for its problems. So significant were these issues that BMW implemented a substantial package of revisions and fixes. The N63TU (Technical Update) was designed to address these shortcomings, representing a significant rework of the original N63. Despite these improvements, it’s essential to recognize that the N63TU is still fundamentally an evolution of the N63 design, and certain inherent characteristics persist.
Examining the history of the N63TU reveals its involvement in multiple class-action lawsuits. These legal actions often highlight a core concern: the engine’s “hot-vee” configuration. This design, which places the turbochargers within the V-shape of the engine, leads to elevated temperatures. This intense heat can, according to these lawsuits, contribute to problems such as premature wear of valve stem seals, excessive oil consumption, and, in the most severe cases, premature engine failure.
https://www.classaction.org/news/bmw…ss-action-says
The prevalence of these issues across the BMW 650i range and other models using the N63TU engine is difficult to quantify precisely, but the risk tends to increase with vehicle age and accumulated mileage. Therefore, if you are in the market for a pre-owned 650i, several precautions are advisable to mitigate potential problems:
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Seek Out Low-Mileage, Single-Owner Vehicles: Prioritize BMW 650i models that have been lightly used and ideally owned by a single individual. Lower mileage generally correlates with less wear and tear, and a single owner history can sometimes indicate more consistent and careful maintenance.
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Verify Complete Maintenance Records: A comprehensive maintenance history is indispensable. Thorough documentation provides insights into the car’s upkeep, revealing whether recommended service intervals have been followed and if any significant repairs have been addressed proactively.
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Seriously Consider a Warranty: While extended warranties may not typically be financially advantageous in all car purchases, a BMW 650i with the N63TU engine might warrant a different perspective. The potential for significant engine-related repairs makes warranty coverage a more compelling proposition in this case. Although self-insuring against typical automotive repairs is often economically sound, the N63TU engine’s potential for major issues shifts the risk-reward calculation. The peace of mind offered by a warranty, if reasonably priced, can be valuable. The concern isn’t just about manageable repairs; it’s the lurking possibility of substantial engine failure that makes warranty consideration pertinent.
Reflecting on personal experience, consider the example of a previous BMW ownership: a 2007 335i powered by the N54 engine. Despite the N54 being associated with potential turbo failures, wastegate issues, and high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) problems, years of ownership and nearly 90,000 miles were trouble-free. This highlights that while certain engines may have inherent risks, individual experiences can vary. Factors such as driving style and diligent maintenance likely play a significant role in long-term reliability.
In conclusion, when considering a used BMW 650i, especially one equipped with the N63TU engine, it’s prudent to “hope for the best, but plan for the worst.” If your financial planning can readily accommodate the worst-case scenario, such as a major engine repair, then proceeding with a purchase might be acceptable. However, if the prospect of significant, unforeseen expenses is unduly concerning, it may be wiser to explore alternative vehicle choices that present a lower risk profile.
