2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo Maintenance Schedule & Service Intervals

Key Takeaways

• The 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo (F07 chassis) is powered by the N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine.
• BMW utilizes a Condition Based Service (CBS) system that uses sensors to calculate maintenance needs based on actual driving conditions rather than fixed intervals.
• Major periodic service should generally be performed every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• Brake fluid requires replacement every 2 years regardless of mileage—this is a critical time-based safety requirement .
• The N63 engine has a total oil capacity of 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters), and a BMW Technical Service Bulletin specifies adding 2 quarts when the "add 1 quart" message appears .

Understanding BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) System

The 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, which directs you to required maintenance measures and supports you in maintaining road safety and the operational reliability of the vehicle. Unlike traditional fixed-interval schedules, CBS uses sensors and special algorithms that take into account the driving conditions of your vehicle to determine maintenance requirements. The system adapts the amount of maintenance you need to your specific user profile.

Service information on required maintenance is continuously stored in the vehicle's remote key fob. Your service center will read out this data and suggest the appropriate service procedures for your vehicle.

For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers .

OEM Factory Maintenance Schedule

The following maintenance intervals represent the recommended schedule for the 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo with the N63 V8 engine:

Engine Oil and Filter Change

The N63 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:

• BMW-approved synthetic oil
• Recommended viscosity: SAE 5W-30
• Capacity: 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) total; typical drain and refill: approximately 8.5 quarts

Important Technical Service Bulletin Information: A BMW Technical Service Bulletin (SI B11 01 13) addresses engine oil capacity for the N63 and N63T engines. When the vehicle displays a message advising the driver to "add 1 quart of engine oil," BMW recommends adding 2 quarts of engine oil instead. The engine's oil sump design allows the additional quart, resulting in a total capacity of 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) .

Third-Party Owner Guidance: Motor oil is the single most important element in keeping your engine healthy . Pelican Parts recommends changing synthetic motor oil every 5,000 miles for optimal engine protection . More frequent changes are advisable if you regularly drive in severe conditions such as short trips, dusty environments, or aggressive driving.

Oil Change Kit Contents: An Inspection I oil change package for the N63 V8 engine typically includes 10 quarts of Genuine BMW 0W30 synthetic motor oil and an OEM Mahle oil filter kit. BMW recommends filling with approximately 8.5 quarts, test driving, checking the level, and adding more if needed—do not pour all 10 quarts in at once .

Brake Fluid Service

Brake fluid service is a critical safety item and is strictly time-based. It is recommended to change the brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage . Brake fluid is hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time, which lowers its boiling point and compromises braking performance.

Air Filter Service

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

Spark Plug Service

The N63 V8 engine uses high-performance spark plugs, with the vehicle requiring 8 spark plugs.

Recommended Interval: Spark plugs should be replaced at 50,000 km .

Third-Party Owner Guidance: BMW technicians generally advise replacing spark plugs every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on the engine and driving style . Replacing spark plugs on time is critical, especially if your BMW has been tuned for increased performance.

Fuel Filter Service

Fuel filter replacement is recommended at 60,000 km .

Engine Coolant Service

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

Serpentine (Drive) Belt Service

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

Transmission Service

The 2013 550i xDrive Gran Turismo uses a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission (GA8HP). BMW's official schedule classifies the transmission fluid as "lifetime fill" under normal conditions. For owners planning long-term ownership, some independent specialists recommend servicing the transmission as preventative maintenance. Replacement parts for the ZF 8HP transmission include the oil pan with integrated filter, oil pan gasket, drain plug, and fill plug.

N63 Engine-Specific Maintenance Considerations

Valve Stem Seals

Valve stem oil seals replacement is recommended every 100,000 km . This BMW engine has high operating temperatures and valve seals often do not last more than 100,000 km. Valve seals that are not replaced in a timely manner can cause damage to the catalytic converter and more serious engine damage.

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, it is recommended to check the condition of the chain periodically and replace the timing chain 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 .

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 xDrive Gran Turismo can achieve high mileage. The N63 V8 engine and ZF 8-speed transmission are capable of durability with proper care. Owners planning long-term ownership should be aware of the N63 engine's known maintenance considerations, including valve stem seal wear and cooling system maintenance.

Staying on track with routine service appointments helps maintain performance, safety, and resale value. Regular maintenance is an investment that maintains the value and dependability of your car, extends its service life, and increases its resale value.