1996 BMW 850Ci

Introduction:

The 1996 BMW 850Ci is a grand touring coupé with a sleek design and powerful performance. It is equipped with a 5.4-liter V12 engine producing 326 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed through a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The 850Ci is known for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive acceleration. However, like all vehicles, it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• V12 5.4L with Manual Transmission
  • Valve stem seal failure: Oil leaks from the valve cover area and increased oil consumption. This issue is common in high-mileage vehicles.
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: Timing chain slackens and can jump, causing engine damage. Requires replacement of the tensioner and chain.
  • Crankshaft position sensor failure: Engine stalls or hesitates. Sensor replacement is necessary.
  • Alternator failure: Loss of electrical power and battery discharge. Alternator replacement is required.
• V12 5.4L with Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission fluid leaks: Seals and gaskets fail, leading to leaks. Seals and gaskets replacement is necessary.
  • Throttle position sensor failure: Irregular idle and poor throttle response. Sensor replacement is required.
  • Torque converter failure: Transmission slips or fails to engage. Replacement of the torque converter is required.

Transmission

• 6-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Synchronizer wear: Difficulty shifting gears or gears popping out. Synchronizer replacement is required.
• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Valve body failure: Gear slipping or harsh shifting. Valve body repair or replacement is necessary.
  • Torque converter lock-up failure: Transmission remains in lower gears. Torque converter replacement is required.

Suspension

• Strut/shock failure: Reduced damping and handling. Replacement of struts and shocks is necessary.
• Control arm bushings wear: Loose front end and excessive tire wear. Bushings replacement is required.
• Rear subframe mounts failure: Cracks in subframe mounts. Requires subframe mount replacement.

Electrical

• Battery failure: Electrical power loss. Battery replacement is required.
• Alternator failure: Loss of electrical power and battery discharge. Alternator replacement is required.
• Starter failure: Difficulty starting the engine. Starter replacement is required.

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Handle breaks or becomes loose. Handle replacement is required.
• Headlight switch failure: Headlights do not turn on or stay on. Switch replacement is required.
• Sunroof leaks: Water leaks into the cabin from the sunroof. Seal replacement is required.

Interior

• Instrument cluster failure: Gauges malfunction. Instrument cluster replacement is required.
• Air conditioning/heater failure: Reduced or no cooling or heating. Compressor, blower, or heater core replacement may be required.
• Electrical window failure: Windows do not operate properly. Motor or switch replacement is required.

Summary:

The 1996 BMW 850Ci is a reliable and comfortable vehicle, but it is not without its potential issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, but are relatively rare. Suspension issues are typically found in high-mileage vehicles. Electrical problems are minor and can be fixed at a reasonable cost. Overall, the 850Ci is a solid choice for those seeking a classic BMW grand tourer.