KNOWN FAULTS · BMW

BMW Serie 5 (F10/F11) M550d (N57, 3.0) common problems.

2010–2017 · Diesel

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

2 known faults with sources

N57 timing chainValve timing

Engine / equipment: N57 3.0 diesel (325d/330d/335d, 525d/530d/535d, 730d, X3/X5/X6 30d-40d)
Period mentioned: 2008–2018 (most cases 2008–2011)
Symptoms: Chain rattle for the first 5–10 seconds after starting; on engines with low oil pressure, noises and oil pump damage.
Possible cause described: Rear-mounted single-row chain with plastic guides and a tensioner; it stretches, especially with long oil change intervals. Far more durable than the N47's, with most lasting beyond 200,000 km.
Check for the garage: Listen to a cold start and check the oil change history. The gearbox must come off to replace it.
Cost cited in the source: €2,500–4,500A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Mileage cited in the database: from 200,000 km. This is not a maintenance interval and does not predict a failure.

Applies if: Only if fitted with the automatic gearbox described in the record.

ZF 8HP oil level, leaks and harsh shiftsAutomatic gearbox

Engine / equipment: ZF 8HP automatic gearbox in rear-wheel-drive BMWs from 2009 (1 to 8 Series and X: F20, F30, F10, G20, G30, X3, X5…)
Period mentioned: 2009–2026
Symptoms: Harsh shifts (especially engaging D and 1st to 2nd), slipping or jerking; oil leaks from the pan, the mechatronic connector sleeve or the seals.
Possible cause described: BMW's diagnostic guide says an incorrect oil level is a frequent cause of shift complaints and asks for it to be checked every time, even with no visible leaks; the pan can be damaged by impacts. The sealing sleeve between gearbox and mechatronic lets oil through to the connector. The oil, sold as lifetime, degrades.
Check for the garage: Check the oil level with the official procedure (correct temperature and engine running), look for leaks at the pan, connector sleeve and seals, inspect the pan for impact damage and review adaptation values with ISTA.
Cost cited in the source: Oil change with pan and filter: maintenance; sleeve or seals: minor repair; mechatronic: expensive repairA rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.