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2008 BMW 750Li

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2008 BMW 750Li is a luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. This model year is part of the E65/E66 generation. The 750Li is equipped with a 4.8L V8 engine (N62B48TU) producing approximately 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2008 7 Series include the 740Li which has a 3.0L Inline-6 and the 760Li which has a 6.0L V12. These engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car’s smooth ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Common complaints revolve around the car’s complex electronics, high maintenance costs, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.8L V8 (N62B48TU)

  • Valve Stem Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon startup after the car has been sitting.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, including the expansion tank, water pump, hoses, and radiator. Overheating can occur if the leaks are severe.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking components (expansion tank, water pump, hoses, radiator).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing cover.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+ depending on the location and severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, warning lights on the dashboard, car may stall, electrical components not working properly.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

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: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifts. Often exacerbated when the transmission is warm.
    • Solution: Depending on the severity, could require a valve body replacement, full transmission rebuild, or replacement. Fluid changes can sometimes provide temporary relief, but often indicate a more significant underlying issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $5,000+ (replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Car sagging on one or more corners, “Self-Leveling Inactive” warning light, failure to maintain ride height.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut, $500-$1500 for compressor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Thrust Arms and Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during braking, clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the thrust arms and/or bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Frozen screen, unresponsive buttons, software glitches, system reboots.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit (CCC).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Comfort Access Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles not unlocking/locking, key fob not recognized, starting problems.
    • Solution: Replacement of door handle sensors, key fobs, or comfort access module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight, difficulty starting the car, various electrical malfunctions.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drains caused by faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis), $200 - $1,000+ (repair, depending on the cause).
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling properly, error messages on the dashboard, headlights pointing in the wrong direction.
    • Solution: Replacement of headlight motors, sensors, or the entire headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly, unusual noises, leaks.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: One or more of the electric seat motors no longer operate.
    • Solution: Replacement of seat motors
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 750Li, while luxurious and powerful, is prone to a number of common issues, particularly related to its engine, transmission, suspension, and complex electronics. Repair costs can be significant, especially for issues like valve stem seal failure and air suspension malfunctions. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures that can render the car undrivable. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their ownership costs. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic is highly recommended.

BMW, 750Li
BMW 750Li 2008
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