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2006 BMW 750i

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2006 BMW 750i is a full-size luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features for its time. The 750i is equipped with a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. There were no other engine options available for the 2006 750i. Owners often appreciate the car’s smooth ride, spacious cabin, and strong performance. However, common complaints revolve around the car’s complex electronics, high maintenance costs, and occasional reliability issues.

Engine

4.8L N62 V8

  • Valve Stem Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke upon startup, especially after the car has been sitting for a while. This indicates oil leaking past the valve stem seals into the combustion chamber.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the coolant transfer pipe (also known as the valley pan), water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking components (coolant transfer pipe, water pump, thermostat, hoses).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the leak location
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, or complete electrical failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

  • Slipping and Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates when shifting, shifts roughly, or slips out of gear. These symptoms can worsen over time.
    • Solution: Replacing the Mechatronic unit (valve body) or rebuilding the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Fluid Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the transmission pan gasket or the mechatronic sleeve.
    • Solution: Replacing the transmission pan gasket and/or the mechatronic sleeve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, the suspension feels bouncy or harsh, and there may be warning lights on the dashboard. This is due to leaks in the air struts or failure of the air compressor.
    • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or both.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. The car may also feel loose or unstable in the steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per control arm
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive screen freezes, reboots, or displays error messages. Some functions may become unavailable.
    • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the iDrive control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not being driven. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or sensor.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system fails to lock or unlock the doors, or only some of the doors work. This can be caused by a faulty door lock actuator or a problem with the central locking module.
    • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator or repairing/replacing the central locking module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Panoramic Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jamming, not opening/closing properly, or leaking water.
    • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Seats not adjusting properly.
    • Solution: Replacing seat motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 BMW 750i, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, is prone to several common issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to oil leaks, coolant leaks, and valve stem seals, can be costly to repair. The air suspension and electrical systems are also potential trouble spots. While some issues may be relatively minor, others can lead to significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their budget or consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

BMW, 750i
BMW 750i 2006
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