1992 BMW 850i

Introduction:

The 1992 BMW 850i is a grand tourer known for its powerful V12 engine and luxurious interior. It was offered with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. With 300 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the 850i provides a thrilling driving experience. However, like all vehicles, it has certain issues that owners may encounter.

Engine:

M70 V12 Engine

• Cam Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Guide Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, catastrophic engine failure if not addressed
  • Solution: Replace timing chain guides and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP30)

• Torque Converter Lockup Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping transmission, shuddering when changing gears
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts erratically, stuck in gear
  • Solution: Replace TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension:

• Front Control Arm Bushings Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or knocking noise when turning or braking
  • Solution: Replace front control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Mounting Points Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Subframe cracking or separating from the chassis
  • Solution: Inspect and potentially reinforce or replace subframe mounting points
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights, warning lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead when parked
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair sources of battery drain (e.g., faulty module or relay)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Sunroof Drain Plugs Clogging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into interior, mold or mildew
  • Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drain plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Instrument Panel Pixels Fading:
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the dashboard display fading or disappearing
  • Solution: Replace instrument panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, alarm issues
  • Solution: Replace central locking module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1992 BMW 850i is a high-performance grand tourer that offers a unique driving experience. However, it has some potential issues to be aware of, particularly with its V12 engine, automatic transmission, and suspension. While some issues can be relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be severe and costly. Regular maintenance and professional repairs are essential to keep the 850i running smoothly and reliably.