If you drive a BMW 6 Series — especially the 640d coupe — you already know it’s a great mix of luxury, power, and smooth cruising. But like any high-performance car, it has its fair share of common issues. At Reds Recovery, we get called out to a lot of 6 Series breakdowns, so we know the usual suspects.
Whether you’ve just bought one or had yours for a while, it’s worth knowing the most common faults. Spotting them early can save you from bigger repair bills down the line and keep your 6 Series running as it should. Here are the top 5 BMW 6 Series Common Problems
EGR Valve & Cooler Problems
One of the most common issues we see with the 640d — especially the diesel models — is trouble with the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve and cooler. Over time, carbon builds up in the system, and that can lead to performance dips or even coolant leaks.
Things to look out for:
Engine warning light on the dash
Rough running or loss of power
Coolant disappearing without any obvious leaks
Quick tip from Reds Recovery:
This issue might seem minor at first, but it can quickly escalate. In worst cases, a faulty EGR cooler can cause the engine to overheat — or even catch fire. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait around. Get it checked before it becomes a major problem.
Timing Chain Wear (N57 Engine)
The 640d’s N57 engine is known for timing chain issues, particularly on pre-2015 models. If the chain stretches or fails, it can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Common signs include:
• Rattling noise from the engine bay
• Delayed start or misfires
• Engine warning light
What we recommend: If you hear an unusual noise at startup, don’t ignore it — we’ve recovered 6 Series cars that were written off due to ignored timing chain failure.
Air Suspension Faults
Many BMW 6 Series models come with adaptive air suspension, which is great for comfort — until it isn’t. With age, the air bags or compressor can fail, causing the rear to sag or the ride height to become uneven.
Symptoms:
• Rear of the car sits lower than normal
• Warning lights on the dash
• Harsh or bouncy ride
Did you know? Faulty suspension isn’t just cosmetic — it can make the vehicle unsafe. If it happens while driving, we’ll recover you safely.
Oil Leaks from Turbo Oil Feed Line
Turbocharged 6 Series diesels like the 640d are known to develop oil leaks from the turbo oil feed or return lines. These can go unnoticed until oil pressure drops or smoke appears from the exhaust.
What to look for:
• Oil spots under the vehicle
• Burning oil smell
• Engine bay smoke
This is one of those BMW 6 Series common problems where early repair can prevent turbo damage — and a very expensive bill.
iDrive & Electrical Glitches
BMW’s iDrive system is innovative but can be temperamental. We’ve seen issues ranging from Bluetooth disconnections to the screen freezing completely. Electrical gremlins can also affect sensors, window switches, and battery drain.
Common electrical symptoms:
• Infotainment system restarting
• Parking sensors malfunctioning
• Flat battery after short periods
Electrical problems are annoying and can affect drivability. If your screen or dash lights start behaving strangely, it’s time for a diagnostic check.
Need Help? Call Reds Recovery
If you’re stuck on the roadside or need recovery after one of these BMW 6 Series common problems, Reds Recovery has you covered. We offer:
24/7 vehicle recovery
Fast response across Kent & the South East
Fault diagnostics and transport to trusted garages
Friendly, professional service
Don’t let small problems turn into major breakdowns. Call Reds Recovery on 01634 926 901 — and we’ll get you back on the road.