Used BMW 645

What to know before buying: BMW 645

From 3 forum threads and 1 press test · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The 4.4-litre V8 produces 333 hp and 450 Nm; the road test praised its performance, sound and strong torque.[4]one source
• The test car's six-speed Steptronic shifted almost imperceptibly and also offered manual and Sport modes.[4]one source
• The suspension absorbed small bumps well, while the Dynamic Drive active anti-roll system substantially reduced cornering roll.[4]one source
• Adults have little rear-seat room and awkward access, but the 450-litre boot is generous for this class of coupé.[4]one source

Typical faults

• 645Ci owners report coolant transfer-pipe leaks; fitting the original part may require engine removal or extensive front-end dismantling.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• Forum reports describe oil consumption of up to 1 litre per 1,000 km from the 4.4-litre V8, with an expensive underlying repair.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• Failure of the water-cooled alternator is reported; a new unit is described as costly and rebuilding as nearly impractical.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• Starter failure is another reported fault: a rebuilt unit is inexpensive, but installation is labour-intensive.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• An IVM module failure can cause malfunctions across several of the car's electronic systems.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• A failed CCV crankcase-ventilation system is also reported, with replacement described as simple and inexpensive.[1]one source

  4.4 V8

• Some E63 645Ci cars show unstable voltage, with flickering lights, system warnings, power-steering disruption and erratic automatic shifting.[2][3]

  95 000–140 000 km · 2004–2004 · 4.4 V8

Which engine and version to take

• Choose the 4.4-litre V8 only after a thorough condition check: it offers 333 hp and 450 Nm, but sources report costly cooling, oil-consumption and charging faults.[4][1][2]

What to avoid

• Avoid a 4.4-litre V8 showing coolant loss, heavy oil consumption or unstable voltage; the reported repairs can be expensive or labour-intensive.[1][2][3]

What to check at the inspection

• Check the coolant level and evidence of leakage, paying particular attention to the reported engine coolant-pipe failure.[1]one source
• Drive the car cold at a steady speed and check for repeated up/down shifts or a Dynamic Drive warning.[2]one source
• Measure battery voltage after an overnight rest and again with the engine running; large swings may indicate an alternator-regulator fault.[2]one source
• Verify that the correct battery is fitted and registered to the car; forum discussions associate improper replacement with continuing electronic faults.[1][2][3]
• Scan the complete fault memory, especially if the display flickers or ABS, Dynamic Drive, active-steering or power-steering warnings appear.[2][3]
• Establish actual oil consumption and inspect records for coolant-pipe, alternator, starter, IVM-module and CCV repairs.[1]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]bmwslo.com — 645ci - Oglasi z interneta - BMWslo.com forum · forum
2. [2]motor-talk.de — BMW 645ci Getriebeprobleme (Automatik) · forum
3. [3]motor-talk.de — BMW E63 645ci Problem Elektronik? · forum
4. [4]autocentre.ua — BMW 645: Не за красивые глаза · press

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