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2006 BMW 760Li

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2006 BMW 760Li is a luxury sedan that offered a high level of performance, comfort, and technology for its time. The 760Li specifically came with a 6.0L V12 engine producing 438 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available on the 2006 7 Series included a 3.0L Inline-6 (730i/Li), a 3.5L V8 (740i/Li), and a 4.4L V8 (745i/Li). All models were equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the smooth ride, powerful engine (especially in the 760Li), and luxurious features. Common complaints revolve around the car’s complex electronics, which can be prone to failure, and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

6.0L V12 (N73)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing chain covers. Visible oil puddles under the car and oil consumption may also be noticed.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating due to coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, or water pump. The engine temperature gauge may rise quickly, and steam may be visible.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty component (hose, radiator, water pump).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the part.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Stem Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke upon start-up, especially after the car has been sitting for a while, as oil leaks into the cylinders.
    • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, hard or jerky shifts, and failure to engage gears properly.
    • Solution: Typically involves a transmission fluid flush and filter change, valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement if the damage is severe.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission entering failsafe mode (limp mode), error codes related to the mechatronic unit, and erratic shifting behavior.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car sitting low on one or more corners, air compressor failing to pump up the suspension, “Self Level Inact.” warning on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut. $500-$1,500 for the compressor
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn 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 freezing, crashing, or displaying error messages. Navigation, radio, and other functions may become unavailable.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacing the iDrive controller, or replacing the entire iDrive unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (unit replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery draining quickly, especially when the car is parked for extended periods. Difficult starting or complete failure to start.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic draws, replacing the battery, or replacing the voltage regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (battery replacement) - $500+ (diagnosing and fixing parasitic draws).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Comfort Access Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access system failing to unlock or lock the doors, or failing to start the car without inserting the key.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty door handle sensors or the comfort access module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Panoramic Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, or making grinding noises. Water leaks from the sunroof seal.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Seats failing to adjust properly, or making grinding noises when adjusting.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2006 BMW 760Li is a complex luxury car that offers a high level of performance and features, but it is prone to a variety of problems, particularly with its engine, transmission, suspension, and electronics. Many of these issues can be expensive to repair, making it essential to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in BMWs. The most severe and costly issues are generally related to the engine (oil leaks, cooling system), transmission (slipping, mechatronic unit), and air suspension. While the car is luxurious and powerful, potential buyers should be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs.

BMW, 760Li
BMW 760Li 2006
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