1997 BMW 750iL

Introduction:

The 1997 BMW 750iL is a luxurious sedan known for its powerful performance and sophisticated features. It comes standard with a 5.4-liter V12 engine that produces 322 horsepower and 361 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is praised for its smooth ride, spacious cabin, and advanced technology. However, it has been reported to have several common issues.

Engine

• V12 5.4L
  • Intake Camshaft Eccentric Shaft Sensor Failure: Causes engine misfires, rough idle, and poor performance.
    • Solution: Replace intake camshaft eccentric shaft sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil seeps from under the valve cover gaskets.
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Causes rattling noises, engine misfires, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Fluid Leak: Fluid leaks from the transmission pan or other seals.
    • Solution: Repair or replace leaking component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Reverse Gear Failure: Transmission hesitates or fails to engage in reverse.
    • Solution: Replace reverse gear planetary gear set.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Slipping Gears: Transmission slips out of gear during acceleration or shifting.
    • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings Worn: Causes clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Sway Bar Links Corroded: Causes rattling noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Leaks: Air leaks from the suspension struts or lines, causing the vehicle to sag.
  • Solution: Repair or replace leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Causes battery discharge or engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure: Engine fails to start or cranks slowly.
  • Solution: Replace starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 03V525000 (Starter motor may fail to engage)
• Battery Drain: Battery discharges prematurely due to parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Locate and fix parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Plastic Bumper Clips Broken: Bumper clips break or become brittle, causing the bumper to sag or rattle.
  • Solution: Replace bumper clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Condensation: Moisture accumulates inside the headlight assemblies.
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies or seal the housings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Fan Failure: Blower motor fails to operate, resulting in poor airflow and temperature control.
  • Solution: Replace blower motor resistor or blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixels Fade: LCD pixels in the instrument cluster fade or display incorrectly.
  • Solution: Replace instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Seal Leaks: Water leaks into the cabin through the sunroof seal.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1997 BMW 750iL has a number of potential issues that owners could encounter. Some of the most common problems include engine misfires, transmission slipping, worn suspension bushings, electrical failures, and interior climate control issues. While these issues can be costly to repair, the overall reliability of the vehicle is generally good. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a used BMW 750iL.