Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain.
4 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh maintenance and repair costs
- RecurrentV8 engine reliability concerns (N63)
Oil leaks, cooling system failures, requiring tows.
- RecurrentElectronic system complexity and failures
Issues with coding, telematics (e.g., 3G module obsolescence), and various control modules.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- RecurrentGeneral reliability concerns
Described as "plagued with issues.".
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Anecdotal praise exists for the post-LCI (Technical Update) F12/F13 650i with the N63TU engine, noted for improved reliability over the pre-LCI N63. One owner also suggests the 640i with its smaller, more manageable six-cylinder engine could be a preferable choice for lower running costs.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Audi A6, Audi A7/S7, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, BMW 8 Series and BMW 5 Series.
Is the 6 Series right for you?
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Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. The 6 Series is widely admired for its styling, described as "sexy" and "beautiful," and is considered a desirable, emotional purchase. However, long-term owner reports consistently highlight significant concerns regarding reliability and high maintenance costs, particularly for models equipped with V8 engines (N63). These vehicles are described as being "plagued with issues" that are "expensive to fix." Owners of the twin-turbo V8 models report experiencing "typical problems" requiring tows, while others note that issues, while frequent, are often manageable leaks or electronic gremlins that can be addressed with proactive maintenance. The driving experience for well-maintained examples is praised, with specific mention of the post-LCI F12 650i being "the best car I've ever owned." The consensus indicates deep satisfaction with the car's design and driving character when operational, but a strong undercurrent of caution regarding ownership costs and complexity.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a stylish, performance-oriented grand tourer. Compared directly to the Audi A7/S7 and Mercedes CLS as a four-door coupe alternative. The BMW 8 Series is noted as a potential modern successor, though no direct comparisons are drawn in the data. It is implicitly positioned above the 5 Series in terms of style and exclusivity but shares many mechanical components. The Lexus LS is cited by a former 6 Series owner as a benchmark for reliability and build quality, representing the trade-off between German performance/tech and Japanese longevity.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from owners. General advice inferred from discussions includes seeking a post-LCI model for improved engine reliability, budgeting significantly for ongoing maintenance and repairs, and considering an extended warranty for peace of mind, especially on higher-mileage or V8 models.
General recommendations
Suitable for enthusiasts who prioritize design and driving experience and are prepared for above-average maintenance costs and complexity. Not recommended as a primary vehicle for owners with a low tolerance for repair bills or downtime. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is considered essential. Buyers should verify maintenance history, with particular attention to engine seals, cooling systems, and electronic modules. Setting aside a substantial annual repair budget (potentially thousands) is strongly advised. For those seeking a similar experience with potentially greater reliability, a Lexus LS is mentioned as a compelling alternative.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans multiple generations, primarily the E63/E64 (2004-2010) and F12/F13 (2011-2018). The notorious reputation of the early N63 V8 engine is a dominant theme, with a noted improvement in the Technical Update (TU) version. The high cost of repairs is a universal point, with parts and specialist labor being expensive. The complexity of modern BMW electronics is highlighted as a particular challenge for long-term ownership, making diagnosis and repair difficult and costly. The emotional appeal of the car's design is a powerful counterbalance to these practical drawbacks for many owners. Analysis based on approximately 10 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
6 Series Gran Turismo (G32)2017–202316 complaints · 1 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): unknown or other (3) · forward collision avoidance (3) · air bags (2)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the G32 6 Series GT is mixed but leans positive among actual owners, who describe it as a highly underappreciated, practical, and comfortable car with an excellent engine and gearbox.
4 problems reported (1 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentFrameless door window mechanism failure
Multiple owners report window regulators failing, with one owner experiencing two failures and suspecting a third; repair costs around 300-350 per window and parts often require ordering.
- IsolatedRear air suspension compressor failure
One owner reported the compressor failing, causing the rear suspension to collapse and requiring an expensive replacement.
- IsolatedEmergency call service unavailable warning in cold weather
One owner noted this appears in winter and is not specific to this car.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedExpensive consumables (large brakes, large tyres)
Noted as expected wear-and-tear costs rather than a defect.
Is a 2017–2023 6 Series right for you?
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6 Series (F06)2012–2018151 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (57) · fuel/propulsion system (25) · electrical system (20)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2012-2018 F06 6 Series generally love the car's styling, describing it as a "dopest looking BMW" that draws constant attention and comments, with one owner noting people ask if it's a supercar.
5 problems reported (2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentOil leaks and minor leaks requiring attention
- RecurrentGeneral technology-related failures due to the car's high feature content
- IsolatedSoft-close door mechanism failure
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedHigh-pressure fuel pump failure on the N55 engine
- IsolatedTransmission skipping sensation in comfort mode when accelerating hard
Described by a dealer as normal.
Is a 2012–2018 6 Series right for you?
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6 Series (F13)2011–2018151 complaints · 5 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (57) · fuel/propulsion system (25) · electrical system (20)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the F13 generation are strongly positive about the car's styling, presence, and grand-touring character, with several describing it as the best-looking BMW and a car they enjoy staring at after parking.
7 problems reported (2 recurrent, 5 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentGeneral N63 twin-turbo V8 reliability concerns
- RecurrentSteep depreciation
- IsolatedOngoing leaks and minor faults requiring prompt attention
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedSoft-close door failure
- IsolatedTransmission skipping under hard acceleration in comfort mode, described by the dealer as normal
- IsolatedHigh-pressure fuel pump failure on the N55 engine
- IsolatedHigh repair bills over $3,000
Is a 2011–2018 6 Series right for you?
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6 Series (F12)2011–2018151 complaints · 5 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (57) · fuel/propulsion system (25) · electrical system (20)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the F12-generation 6 Series are broadly positive about the car's looks, road presence, and grand-touring character, with several describing it as the best or most enjoyable car they have owned.
6 problems reported (2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentGeneral reliability concerns and expensive repair risk associated with the N63 twin-turbo V8
- RecurrentDepreciation
- IsolatedOil leaks and minor ongoing repairs requiring prompt attention
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedSoft-close door failure requiring repair
- IsolatedTransmission skipping under hard acceleration in comfort mode, described by the dealer as normal
- IsolatedHigh pressure fuel pump failure on the N55 engine
Is a 2011–2018 6 Series right for you?
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Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2005. Years to avoid: 2012, 2006, 2005Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all BMW 6 Series years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 4 | 1 | power train |
| 2018 | 11 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2017 | 1 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 1 | 0 | structure |
| 2015 | 19 | 1 | wheels |
| 2014 | 32 | 0 | engine |
| 2013 | 60 | 0 | engine |
| 2012 | 27 | 4 | engine |
| 2010 | 5 | 2 | engine |
| 2009 | 4 | 2 | power train |
| 2008 | 12 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2007 | 24 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2006 | 26 | 5 | service brakes |
| 2005 | 40 | 4 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices28 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V684000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2015 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V527000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
2012 · engine and engine cooling:engine:other fuel types:turbo/superchargercampaign 12V161000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 5-SERIES, 5-SERIES GRAN TURISMO, MODEL YEAR 2012 6-SERIES CONVERTIBLE, 7-SERIES, X5 SAV, AND X6 SAV VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8- OR 12-CYLINDER, TURBOCHARGED, ENGINES BECAUSE THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE ELECTRIC AUXILIARY WATER PUMP CAN OVERHEAT.
2012 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 16V746000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.
2012 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 14V176000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 128i Coupe, 128i Convertible, 328i Sedan, 328i xDrive Sedan, 328i Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sports Wagon and Z4 sDrive 30i, 2011-2012 135i Coupe, 135i Convertible, 335i Sedan, X5 xDrive 35i, and X6 xDrive 35i, 2011 335i xDrive Sedan, 335i Coupe, 335i Convertible, 528i Sedan, 535i Sedan, 535i xDrive Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, and X3 xDrive 35i, 2010 X3 xDrive 30i, and X5 xDrive 30i, 2012 640i Coupe, and 640i Convertible and 2010-2012 535i Gran Turismo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and may possibly break.
2012 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 18V248000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i xDrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo xDrive, 750i, 750Li, 750i xDrive, 750Li xDrive, 760Li, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M, ActiveHybrid7, MINI Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman ALL4, Cooper S, JCW, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i xDrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i xDrive Convertible vehicles. The electric auxiliary water pump may fail and cause the circuit board to overheat.
2010 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
2010 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 10V446000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, 6-SERIES, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2008 7-SERIES VEHICLES. A CHECK VALVE OF THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP MAY LEAK A SMALL AMOUNT OF LUBRICATING OIL. OVER TIME THIS COULD RESULT IN CONTAMINATION OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
2009 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
2009 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 10V446000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, 6-SERIES, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2008 7-SERIES VEHICLES. A CHECK VALVE OF THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP MAY LEAK A SMALL AMOUNT OF LUBRICATING OIL. OVER TIME THIS COULD RESULT IN CONTAMINATION OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
2008 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
2008 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 10V446000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, 6-SERIES, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2008 7-SERIES VEHICLES. A CHECK VALVE OF THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP MAY LEAK A SMALL AMOUNT OF LUBRICATING OIL. OVER TIME THIS COULD RESULT IN CONTAMINATION OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
2007 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
2007 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 10V446000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, 6-SERIES, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2008 7-SERIES VEHICLES. A CHECK VALVE OF THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP MAY LEAK A SMALL AMOUNT OF LUBRICATING OIL. OVER TIME THIS COULD RESULT IN CONTAMINATION OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
2006 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
13 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: G32
640i Mild Hybrid xDrive
3.0L 6-cylinder · 333 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2020–2023