1991 BMW 750iL
Introduction
The 1991 BMW 750iL is a luxury sedan powered by a 5.0L V12 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 750iL was highly regarded for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and smooth ride. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its potential issues.
Engine
- 5.0L V12
- Intake manifold gasket failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak near the intake manifold, rough idle, engine overheating
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cylinder head gasket failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak near the cylinder head, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
- Solution: Replace cylinder head gaskets
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake manifold gasket failure:
Transmission
- 4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission slipping:
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, lack of power during acceleration
- Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission slipping:
Suspension
- Front suspension strut failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace front suspension struts
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, battery warning light on
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, clicking sound when attempting to start
- Solution: Replace starter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof switch failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof won’t open or close, sunroof button doesn’t respond
- Solution: Replace sunroof switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Instrument cluster failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Gauges or lights not working, inaccurate readings
- Solution: Replace instrument cluster
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power window failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Window won’t open or close, window switch not responding
- Solution: Replace window motor or switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1991 BMW 750iL is a well-built and luxurious vehicle, but it is not immune to some common issues. The most severe and costly issues include engine and transmission problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and transmission slipping. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the 750iL is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for those who can afford its premium price point and potential maintenance costs.