2005 BMW 745i
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2005 BMW 745i, categorized by major components. The 2005 BMW 745i is part of the E65/E66 generation (2002-2008). It’s known for its luxurious features, advanced technology for its time, and distinctive (though initially controversial) styling. The 745i is powered by a 4.4-liter V8 engine (N62B44) producing 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. While some appreciate its smooth ride, powerful engine, and feature-rich interior, others dislike its complex electronics, which can be prone to failures, and its high maintenance costs. Other engine options for that year may include the 760i with a V12.
Category
Engine
N62B44 4.4L V8
- Valve Stem Seal Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon startup after the car has been sitting for a while.
- Solution: Replacement of valve stem seals. Requires removal of cylinder heads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks (Valley Pan)
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible external leaks. Overheating. Sweet coolant smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the valley pan gasket. This is a labor-intensive job as the intake manifold needs to be removed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Bracket Oil Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the front of the engine, can drip onto other components.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator bracket gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (Various Locations)
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various gaskets, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front timing cover.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ (depending on the specific gasket)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 6HP26 6-Speed Automatic
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, rough shifting, transmission malfunction warning.
- Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Fluid Leaks (Seals)
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from various seals.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sagging, “Self-Leveling Inactive” warning on the iDrive screen, loud compressor noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, the car leaning to one side, hissing sounds from the struts.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking air struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vibrations at higher speeds, and poor handling.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or complete control arms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per arm/bushing set
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, error messages, or complete failure of the iDrive system.
- Solution: Software update (if possible), replacement of the iDrive control unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight, requiring frequent jump starts.
- Solution: Diagnosis to find the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module, a malfunctioning sensor, or an issue with the alarm system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Comfort Access System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Keyless entry/start not working, difficulty locking/unlocking the car.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty door handle sensors, antenna amplifiers, or the Comfort Access module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per door handle
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or key, unusual noises from the door.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cables, or other components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Seat Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Power seats not adjusting properly, motors making noises, or seats stuck in one position.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of faulty seat motors, switches, or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation Screen Pixelation/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Pixels dying on the navigation screen, display fading, or screen completely failing.
- Solution: Replacement of the screen or entire iDrive unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2005 BMW 745i, while luxurious and powerful, is prone to several common issues. Engine issues, particularly oil leaks and valve stem seal failures, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, especially with the Mechatronic unit and valve body, are also common. Suspension issues, involving the air suspension system, can lead to significant repair expenses. Electrical problems, focusing on the iDrive system and battery drain, can be frustrating. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance crucial.