1994 BMW 850CSi

Introduction

The 1994 BMW 850CSi is a grand touring coupe powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.6-liter V12 engine producing 375 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. It’s known for its luxurious interior, sleek exterior, and powerful performance. However, it also has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

5.6L V12

• Valve Stem Seal Failure: Oil leaks, excessive smoke from the exhaust, rough idling. Replace valve stem seals. $1000 - $1500+
• Hydraulic Lifter Failure: Tapping or ticking noise from the engine. Replace hydraulic lifters. $500 - $1000+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Engine rattling noise, reduced power. Replace timing chain tensioner. $800 - $1200+
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Vacuum leaks, rough idling. Replace intake manifold gasket. $300 - $500+

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: Clutch pedal feels spongy or sinks to the floor. Replace clutch master cylinder. $300 - $500+
• Slave Cylinder Failure: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch slipping. Replace slave cylinder. $400 - $600+

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Failure: Shifting problems, slipping, delayed engagement. Overhaul or replace valve body. $1000 - $1500+
• Torque Converter Failure: Slipping, overheating, shuddering. Replace torque converter. $1500 - $2000+

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: Squeaking or clunking noise during turns or over bumps. Replace strut mount bearing. $200 - $300+
• Control Arm Bushing Failure: Loose or rattling suspension, poor handling. Replace control arm bushings. $400 - $600+
• Sway Bar End Link Failure: Knocking or clunking noise over bumps. Replace sway bar end links. $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Dimming headlights, electrical problems. Replace alternator. $500 - $700+
• Starter Solenoid Failure: Difficulty starting the engine. Replace starter solenoid. $200 - $300+
• Battery Drain: Battery discharges quickly. Inspect for electrical leaks or replace battery. $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Sunroof Seal Failure: Leaks during rain or car wash. Replace sunroof seal. $200 - $400+
• Door Handle Failure: Door handle becomes loose or broken. Replace door handle. $100 - $200+
• Antenna Mast Failure: Antenna mast gets stuck or breaks off. Replace antenna mast. $100 - $200+

Interior

• Center Console Cracking: Center console develops cracks or breaks. Replace center console. $500 - $700+
• Climate Control Panel Failure: Climate control buttons or knobs stop working. Replace climate control panel. $200 - $400+
• Instrument Cluster Failure: Gauges or display malfunction. Replace instrument cluster. $400 - $600+

Summary

The 1994 BMW 850CSi is a powerful and luxurious grand touring coupe, but it also has some potential issues. The most common issues include engine valve stem seal and timing chain tensioner failures, transmission valve body and torque converter failures, suspension strut mount bearing and control arm bushing failures, electrical alternator and starter solenoid failures, and interior center console and climate control panel failures. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the condition of the vehicle. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchase decision.