2008 BMW Alpina B7

The 2008 BMW Alpina B7 is a high-performance luxury sedan based on the BMW 7 Series (E65/E66). The Alpina B7 distinguishes itself with unique styling, a handcrafted interior, and a specially tuned engine. The sole engine option available was a supercharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It was paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the B7 for its smooth power delivery, luxurious interior, and exclusivity. Criticisms often revolve around the higher running costs associated with its high-performance nature and the inherent maintenance concerns of the underlying BMW 7 Series platform.

Engine

4.4L Supercharged V8 (N62TU)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing chain covers. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The cooling system components, such as the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses, are prone to leaks. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (ZF 6HP26)

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The ZF 6HP26 transmission can experience rough shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement. This is often due to worn valve body components or contaminated transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement can sometimes improve the condition. In more severe cases, valve body rebuild or transmission replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, which provides a comfortable ride, is susceptible to leaks and compressor failure. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, and a “Suspension Fault” warning on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per corner depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The E65/E66 platform is known for electrical gremlins that can cause excessive battery drain. This can result in a dead battery, difficulty starting, and various electronic malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw. This can involve replacing faulty modules, wiring repairs, or software updates.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience software glitches, screen freezes, and control knob malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the entire iDrive unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight condensation, failure of the adaptive headlight system, or burnt-out bulbs.
  • Solution: Replacing headlight seals, replacing the adaptive headlight motor, or replacing bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof motor can fail, causing the sunroof to become stuck or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor or repairing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW Alpina B7, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, is known to have issues typical of high-performance BMWs of its era. Oil leaks, coolant leaks, and air suspension problems are common, and can be expensive to fix. Electrical issues, particularly related to battery drain and the iDrive system, are also prevalent. Transmission issues can also occur in the ZF 6HP26 transmission. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of the higher maintenance costs and potential repair needs associated with this vehicle, and be sure to have any prospective purchase thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic familiar with BMWs.