2013 BMW 550i Gran Turismo Complete Service & Maintenance Schedule

Key Takeaways

• The 2013 BMW 550i Gran Turismo (F07 chassis) is powered by the N63TU 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine and features a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
• BMW utilizes a Condition Based Service (CBS) system that calculates maintenance needs using sensors based on actual driving conditions rather than fixed intervals
• Major periodic service is recommended approximately every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (18,600 miles)
• Engine oil capacity for the N63TU is 8.5 liters (9 quarts) with recommended 5W-30 oil, changed every 10,000 km or one year
• Brake fluid should be changed every 2 years regardless of mileage
• The N63TU engine has known issues including excessive oil consumption (valve stem seals) and cooling system concerns—BMW has issued programs addressing these for certain models

Understanding BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) System

The 2013 BMW 550i Gran Turismo utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, an intelligent maintenance monitoring system that tracks vehicle data through sensors . Instead of relying on a rigid, fixed-mileage schedule, CBS calculates service intervals based on how you drive—considering factors like driving style, trip lengths, and operating temperatures .

CBS-Monitored Service Items Include:

• Engine oil quality and life
• Front and rear brake pad wear
• Brake fluid condition
• Vehicle check service
• Microfilter condition

Important Note: Service information is stored in the vehicle's remote key fob. Your service center will read this data to suggest the appropriate procedures for your specific vehicle .

OEM Factory Maintenance Schedule

The following maintenance intervals are recommended for the 2013 BMW 550i Gran Turismo with the N63TU V8 engine .

Engine Oil and Filter Change

The N63TU 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine requires high-quality synthetic oil. The recommended oil change interval is 10,000 km or one year, whichever comes first .

Oil Specifications:

• Capacity: 8.5 liters (9 quarts)
• Recommended viscosity: SAE 5W-30
• Oil filter replacement at every oil change

Conservative Owner Guidance: Motor oil is the single most important factor in engine longevity. For optimal protection, consider more frequent oil changes if you regularly drive in severe conditions such as short trips, dusty environments, or aggressive driving.

Brake Fluid Service

BMW recommends changing the brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage . Brake fluid is hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and compromises braking performance.

Spark Plug Service

Spark plugs should be replaced at 50,000 km for the N63TU V8 engine . The engine uses 8 spark plugs.

Air Filter

The air filter change interval is 20,000 km . After prolonged driving in particularly dusty conditions, check the filter earlier and replace it if visibly dirty .

Fuel Filter

Fuel filter replacement is recommended at 60,000 km .

Engine Coolant

Engine coolant replacement is recommended at 80,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first . The coolant capacity is 11.6 liters .

Serpentine (Drive) Belt

The serpentine or alternator belt replacement interval is 100,000 km . In reality, it may have a shorter service life—pay close attention to the belt's condition or consider replacement after 60,000 km .

Transmission Service

The 2013 550i Gran Turismo uses a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW's official schedule classifies the transmission fluid as "lifetime fill" under normal conditions. However, for owners planning long-term ownership, some independent specialists recommend servicing the transmission at regular intervals as preventative maintenance.

Transmission Service Parts (ZF 8HP):

• Transmission pan with integrated filter
• Transmission pan gasket
• Drain plug and fill plug

Oxygen/Lambda Sensors

Oxygen sensors are scheduled for replacement at 120,000 miles, with a repeat service at 150,000 miles . They deteriorate on a mileage basis and replacement helps maintain fuel economy and minimize exhaust pollution.

N63 Engine-Specific Maintenance Considerations

Oil Consumption and Valve Stem Seals

The N63 V8 engine has documented potential issues with excessive oil consumption. One of the primary causes is wear of the valve stem seals . BMW's recommended replacement interval for valve stem seals is 100,000 km .

Symptoms of valve seal issues include:

• Smoke from the tailpipe on startup
• Excessive engine oil consumption
• Spark plugs fouled with oil

Important: If valve seals are not replaced in a timely manner, damage to the catalytic converter and other serious engine damage can occur .

BMW Engine Replacement Program: BMW has acknowledged issues with the N63 engine family and has established programs for certain vehicles. For US market vehicles, BMW has offered engine replacement programs for models with the N63TU engine, including the 550i GT, based on mileage and warranty status .

Timing Chain

There is no manufacturer-specified replacement interval for the timing chain, with BMW expecting it to last until engine overhaul (approximately 190,000–330,000 km) .

Practical Guidance: Based on real-world experience, the timing chain may become overstretched around 100,000 km. After this mileage, periodically check the chain's condition and replace it if it becomes excessively stretched or if unusual engine noises occur .

VANOS System

To avoid expensive repairs, inspection of the VANOS oil supply system with replacement of the solenoid valves and flushing of the return valves is recommended once every 60,000–80,000 km .

Cooling System

The N63 engine runs at high operating temperatures, making cooling system maintenance critical. Coolant replacement at 80,000 km or 5 years is recommended, but regular inspection of hoses, the water pump, and radiator is also advisable .

BMW Maintenance Program Coverage

2013 BMW vehicles were covered by the standard BMW Maintenance Program for 48 months or 50,000 miles from the original in-service date. For vehicles beyond this coverage, owners should plan for out-of-pocket maintenance.

Long-Term Ownership Outlook

With proper maintenance, a 2013 BMW 550i Gran Turismo can achieve high mileage. However, the N63TU V8 engine has known issues that can be costly to maintain out of warranty. Owners planning long-term ownership should budget for:

• Valve stem seal replacement (if oil consumption develops)
• Cooling system maintenance
• Regular oil changes at conservative intervals
• Timing chain inspection after 100,000 km

Staying on track with routine service appointments helps maintain performance, safety, and resale value.