2002 BMW 745Li
Okay, here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints related to the 2002 BMW 745Li, formatted for your website. This is based on publicly available information and repair data. Keep in mind that the age of these vehicles means condition varies widely based on maintenance history.
The 2002 BMW 745Li marked a significant departure for the 7 Series, introducing a new design and advanced technology. The primary engine option was the 4.4-liter N62 V8 engine, producing 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. A key dislike for many was the complex iDrive system, which controlled many vehicle functions. Likes often centered around the car’s luxurious appointments, smooth ride, and powerful engine. The only transmission option available was a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Engine
4.4L N62 V8
- Valve Stem Seal Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust, especially after start-up or after idling for a period. This indicates oil is leaking past the valve stem seals into the combustion chamber.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve stem seals. This is a labor-intensive job, often requiring the cylinder heads to be removed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks (Valley Pan, Timing Chain Cover)
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle or within the engine bay. The valley pan (under the intake manifold) and the timing chain cover are common leak points.
- Solution: Replacement of the valley pan gasket and/or timing chain cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (Valley Pan), $2,000 - $4,000+ (Timing Chain Cover)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Pan Gasket)
- Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, visible oil accumulation around the valve covers or oil pan.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or oil pan gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 (Valve Cover Gaskets), $800 - $2,000 (Oil Pan Gasket)
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery light illumination, dimming headlights, difficulty starting, or complete electrical failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)
- Slipping/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, “Transmission Failsafe Prog.” error message on the dashboard.
- Solution: Could range from a fluid and filter change, to valve body repair/replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (Fluid/Filter), $1,500 - $3,000 (Valve Body), $4,000 - $8,000+ (Rebuild/Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak near the transmission pan. Can lead to low fluid levels and transmission issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve (the electrical connector seal).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (Struts, Compressor, Valve Block)
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging of the vehicle, particularly overnight. “Self-leveling inactive” message on the dashboard. Noisy air compressor.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500 (Compressor), $300 - $800 (Valve Block)
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering.
- Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per control arm
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the iDrive screen. Difficulty controlling vehicle functions.
- Solution: Software update (if possible), replacement of the iDrive controller or the entire head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (Software Update), $500 - $2,000+ (Controller/Head Unit)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for a short period.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, lights staying on). This often requires specialized diagnostic equipment.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
- Comfort Access Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock doors using the comfort access system. Key fob not recognized.
- Solution: Replacement of the door handle sensor or antenna.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per door handle
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen goes blank or displays distorted images.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2002 BMW 745Li, while a luxurious and technologically advanced vehicle for its time, suffers from age-related issues that can be expensive to repair. Engine oil leaks and coolant leaks are common, along with transmission problems and air suspension failures. Electrical issues related to the iDrive system are also frequently reported. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially exceeding the vehicle’s current market value. Potential buyers should prioritize a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic and carefully review the vehicle’s maintenance history.