2006 BMW 550i recalls and problems
The 2006 BMW 550i has 3 safety recalls and 23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2006 BMW 550i vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2006 BMW 550i recalls
Recall 17V-428: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America, Inc. (BMW) is recalling certain 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, and 550i vehicles equipped with the Sport Seat option and certain 2006 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i vehicles with standard seats. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if, and how, the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Risk: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 1, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 13V-564: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2006 325i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi sedans and 325xi sports wagons, model year 2007 328i, 328xi, 335i, 335xi sedans and 328i and 328xi sports wagons, model year 2006-2007 525i, 525xi, 530i, 530xi, 550i sedans and 530xi sports wagons, model year 2006 760i sedans, model year 2006-2007 750i, 750Li, and 760Li sedans, and model year 2006 X5 sports activity vehicles, equipped with certain seat types. The front passenger seat occupant detection mat that determines if and how the passenger frontal air bag should deploy in a crash may fatigue and develop cracks which could lead to a system failure.
Risk: Should the system fail, in the event of a crash, the front passenger air bag would be deactivated, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners with an interim notification letter in January 2014 since parts are not currently available. When parts are available, BMW sent a second letter in August and dealers will repair the occupant detection mat to eliminate the possibility that it may crack, free of charge. Additionally, owners of model year 2006-2007 3 Series with standard seats, 5 Series with comfort seats, and Z4 models, will receive an extended warranty on their front passenger seat occupant detection mat. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Recall 07V-479: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: On certain vehicles equipped with v8 engines, in conditions of below freezing temperatures combined with low humidity, it is possible for electrostatic discharge to occur at the fuel rails. If this were to occur, the engine electronic control unit (Ecu) could be affected so that engine stalling could result.
Risk: If stalling were to occur, the driver may not be able to maintain vehicle speed or accelerate and the power steering could fail increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will attach two ground cables in the engine compartment free of charge. The recall began on october 29, 2007. Owners may contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.
2006 BMW 550i problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Air Bags | 14 | |
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Wheels | 2 | |
| Engine | 2 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Air Bags › Frontal — 2
- Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 100,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2006 BMW 550i complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW 550i years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2006 BMW 550i have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2006 BMW 550i: 17V-428 (air bags), 13V-564 (air bags), 07V-479 (engine and engine cooling). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2006 BMW 550i?
Owners report air bags problems most often (14 reports), followed by electrical system (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 100,000 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.