1999 BMW 850Ci

Introduction:

The 1999 BMW 850Ci is a luxurious grand tourer equipped with a powerful V12 engine. Despite its impressive performance and style, this vehicle has been plagued by a range of issues reported by owners.

Engine

M73 V12

• Vanos System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine power loss, rough idling, increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replace Vanos solenoid or system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throttle Position Sensor Faults:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine behavior, hesitation, stalling
  • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Cooling System Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss
  • Solution: Replace leaking hoses, gaskets, or water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Zf)

• Harsh Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, especially when downshifting
  • Solution: Replace solenoid pack or transmission fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking noises when turning or driving over bumps
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Rear Subframe Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Structural damage causing abnormal handling and noises
  • Solution: Subframe repair or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow cranking or dead battery after period of inactivity
  • Solution: Identify source of drain, such as faulty alternator or parasitic draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
• Xenon Headlight Bulb Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or inoperative headlights
  • Solution: Replace xenon bulb or ballast
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Interior

• Climate Control Problems:
• Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning heater, air conditioning, or ventilation
• Solution: Diagnose and repair issues with system components

• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

• Instrument Panel Pixelation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fade or flickering of pixels on the instrument panel display
  • Solution: Replace instrument panel display or circuit board
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or damaged alignment of the trunk lid
  • Solution: Repair or replace trunk lid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000

Summary

The 1999 BMW 850Ci has a history of various issues that can be costly to repair. Owners have reported problems with the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, interior, and exterior. While the performance and styling of the vehicle are praised, the high cost of maintenance and repairs can be a deterrent.