2009 BMW 750i

The 2009 BMW 750i is a luxury sedan that blends performance and comfort. The 750i features a 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. While known for its smooth ride, advanced technology, and opulent interior, the 2009 750i is also criticized for its high maintenance costs, complex electronics prone to failure, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

N62B48 4.8L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common due to the deterioration of valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gaskets, and the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the affected gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can originate from various locations, including the expansion tank, radiator hoses, and water pump. Overheating can occur as a result.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component, such as the expansion tank, hoses, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke upon start-up, especially after the car has been sitting for a while, indicates oil seeping past worn valve stem seals into the combustion chamber.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve stem seals requires removing the cylinder heads, making it a labor-intensive job.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 6HP26 6-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from the mechatronic sleeve, leading to rough shifting or transmission malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and potentially the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds and abnormal shifting patterns may indicate torque converter problems.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor fails, leading to the vehicle sitting low, or a “Suspension Fault” warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The air struts can develop leaks, causing the car to sit unevenly or drop overnight. Hissing noises may also be heard.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive system malfunctions can range from screen freezing to complete system failure, affecting navigation, audio, and climate control.
  • Solution: Software update, module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to faulty modules or systems that do not shut down correctly, leading to a dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty module, or address the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Comfort Access (keyless entry and start) malfunctions. The car may fail to lock/unlock or start without manually inserting the key.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected door handle sensor, key fob, or related module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can fail to self-level or turn with the steering wheel, resulting in poor visibility and error messages.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the headlight motor, control module, or headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can jam, fail to open/close correctly, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motors can fail, preventing adjustment of the seats.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 BMW 750i can be a rewarding vehicle to own due to its luxury features and performance, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues. Many of the problems, particularly those related to the engine, suspension, and electrical systems, can be costly to repair. Potential owners should budget for these repairs or seek out well-maintained examples with thorough service records. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The cost to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousands.