2017 BMW 550i GT XDrive Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive engine is stalling?

When your 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive experiences engine stalling, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking for error codes using a diagnostic scanner, as these codes can pinpoint specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump and filter, to ensure they are functioning correctly, as fuel delivery problems are a common cause of stalling. Following this, examine the ignition system components such as spark plugs and ignition coils, since faulty parts here can lead to misfires. It's also crucial to check the air intake system for any blockages, as a clean air filter is vital for optimal engine performance. Additionally, inspect the various sensors, including the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, since malfunctioning sensors can disrupt engine operation. Finally, evaluate the health of the battery, as a weak battery can lead to electrical issues that may contribute to stalling. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your BMW.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; failing ignition coils or worn spark plugs can prevent the engine from firing properly. Air intake problems, such as leaks or blockages, can also affect the air-fuel mixture, resulting in stalling. Furthermore, sensor failures, particularly with components like the mass airflow sensor or crankshaft position sensor, can send incorrect data to the engine control unit, causing it to stall unexpectedly. Lastly, electrical issues, including problems with the battery, alternator, or wiring, can disrupt the engine's operation. By understanding these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the root causes of engine stalling in their BMW, ensuring smoother performance and reliability.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive?

When it comes to a 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive experiencing engine stalling, the urgency of addressing this issue cannot be overstated. Engine stalling can lead to a sudden loss of power, which poses significant safety risks, especially in high-traffic situations where quick acceleration or maneuvering is necessary. This loss of power can result in a dangerous loss of control, not only endangering the driver and passengers but also other road users. Moreover, neglecting the symptoms of engine stalling can exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to more severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. Regular maintenance and timely intervention are essential for maintaining the vehicle's performance and longevity. Therefore, if you encounter stalling issues, it is crucial to inspect and address them immediately, either through DIY troubleshooting or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to ensure safe and reliable operation of your BMW.

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