2005 BMW 745Li

The 2005 BMW 745Li is a full-size luxury sedan known for its advanced technology and comfortable ride. The 745Li is powered by a 4.4-liter V8 engine, producing 325 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the car’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and distinctive styling. Conversely, others dislike the complexity of the iDrive system, the high maintenance costs, and the potential for electronic issues. There was also a standard wheelbase 745i available.

Engine

4.4L N62 V8

• Valve Stem Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust upon startup, especially after the car has been sitting for a while. This is due to oil leaking past the worn valve stem seals and into the combustion chamber.
  • Solution: Replace the valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, including the water pump, thermostat housing, valley pan gasket, and radiator hoses. Can lead to overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components (water pump, thermostat, hoses, valley pan gasket).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (depending on the location and extent of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming lights, and eventual loss of electrical power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to engage certain gears. Often accompanied by transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and replacement of the Mechatronic unit (valve body) or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sags on one or more corners, the air compressor runs constantly or fails to activate, suspension error messages appear on the iDrive screen.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts, air compressor, and/or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut, $500-$1000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also cause uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive screen freezes, reboots randomly, or displays error messages. Individual functions may stop working.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control module (CCC unit), or replacement of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity of the issue and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the car is not in use. Can be caused by a faulty module or electrical component that continues to draw power when the car is off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve disconnecting and testing individual components or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the diagnosis)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The keyless entry and start system malfunctions. The car may not unlock or start using the comfort access feature.
  • Solution: Replace door handle sensors, key fob, or CAS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door will not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights stop functioning correctly, headlight bulbs burn out frequently, or condensation forms inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replace headlight bulbs, headlight control modules, or complete headlight assemblies. Seal any gaps to prevent moisture intrusion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the instrument cluster display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats will not move or adjust, or make grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 BMW 745Li is a complex vehicle with several potential issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks are common, along with transmission problems and electrical gremlins. The air suspension is another area prone to failure. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. The cost of repairs can be quite high, making it important to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic experienced with BMWs.