Post
Research the Car Logo

1998 BMW 740i

Posted
By Research the Car 2 min read

Introduction:

The 1998 BMW 740i is a luxurious sedan known for its performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It comes with a powerful 4.4L V8 engine that produces 282 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque. The 740i is offered with two transmission options: a 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. While the 740i is generally praised for its handling, performance, and interior comfort, some common issues have been reported.

Engine

  • 4.4L V8
    • Valve Stem Seal Failure: Oil leaks from the valve cover and/or smoke from the exhaust. Replace valve stem seals. $1,000-$2,000+
    • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Noisy engine, especially on cold starts. Replace timing chain tensioner. $500-$1,000
    • Nikasil Cylinder Bore Degeneration: Engine oil consumption and potential engine failure. Requires engine rebuild or replacement. $5,000-$15,000
    • VANOS System Failure: Reduced engine power, rough idling. Replace VANOS solenoids or actuators. $500-$1,500

Transmission

  • 5-speed Automatic
    • Transmission Slipping: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power. Overhaul or replace transmission. $2,000-$4,000+
    • Torque Converter Shudder: Vibration during acceleration. Replace torque converter. $1,000-$2,000
  • 5-speed Manual
    • Clutch Wear: Difficulty engaging or disengaging gears. Replace clutch assembly. $500-$1,000+
    • Synchro Ring Failure: Grating noise when shifting gears. Replace synchro rings. $500-$1,200

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps. Replace control arm bushings. $200-$500 per side
  • Rear Subframe Mounts Cracking: Degraded handling, creaking or groaning noises. Reinforce or replace subframe mounts. $1,000-$2,000+
  • Air Suspension Failure: Uneven ride height, loss of stability. Replace air struts or compressor. $1,500-$3,000 per side

Electrical

  • Battery Discharge: Battery drains quickly. Replace battery or test electrical system for parasitic drain. $100-$400+
  • Alternator Failure: Dimming lights, electrical system issues. Replace alternator. $500-$800+
  • Window Regulator Failure: Windows fail to operate properly. Replace window regulator assembly. $200-$400 per window
  • Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure: Headlights flicker or fail to illuminate. Replace ballast. $200-$400 per side

Exterior

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure: Doors fail to lock or unlock properly. Replace actuator. $200-$400 per door
  • Trunk Lid Release Failure: Trunk lid fails to open. Replace trunk release mechanism. $100-$200

Interior

  • iDrive System Failure: Navigation, entertainment, and climate control issues. Software update or replacement of iDrive unit. $500-$2,000
  • Power Seat Motor Failure: Seats fail to adjust properly. Replace motor or seat assembly. $500-$1,000 per seat
  • Heater Core Failure: Loss of heat in the cabin. Replace heater core. $500-$1,000
  • Sunroof Motor Failure: Sunroof fails to open or close properly. Replace motor or sunroof assembly. $500-$1,500

Summary:

The 1998 BMW 740i is a luxurious and capable sedan, but it has some known issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, such as valve stem seal and VANOS system failures, are common. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, can also be expensive to fix. Suspension and electrical problems are also reported, and some interior components can fail prematurely. However, many owners still value the vehicle’s performance and comfort despite these potential issues.

BMW, 740i
BMW 740i 1998
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.