2011 BMW 740Li

The 2011 BMW 740Li is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The 740Li is equipped with a 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine producing 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Another engine option available in the 7 Series is the 4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 740Li for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. However, some common complaints include electrical issues, high maintenance costs, and occasional drivetrain problems.

Engine

3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (N54)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket or seal is the typical solution. Thoroughly clean the affected area after the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the leak location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Common issues include water pump failure, thermostat failure, and coolant leaks. Symptoms include overheating, coolant loss, and warning lights. The water pump is a known weak point.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty water pump, thermostat, or hoses. Ensure proper bleeding of the cooling system after repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the mechatronic sleeve where the wiring harness enters the transmission. Can cause transmission slipping and shifting problems.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement is the usual fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 740Li utilizes an air suspension system, which can be prone to leaks in the air springs or failure of the air compressor. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a rough ride, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air spring(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per corner for air springs, $600-$1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system, which controls many of the car’s functions, can experience software glitches, screen failures, or control knob issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, component replacement (screen, controller), or module replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the specific issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various electrical components not shutting down properly or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component. Test and possibly replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning adaptive headlights can cause the lights to not adjust properly, display error messages, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or individual components like the stepper motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat motors that control seat adjustment can fail, leading to limited or no seat movement.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor or the entire seat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 BMW 740Li, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, is prone to several common issues. The most prevalent issues involve the engine (oil leaks, cooling system), transmission (mechatronic sleeve leaks, torque converter), suspension (air suspension), and electrical systems (iDrive malfunctions, battery drain). The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, and the associated costs can be substantial, potentially exceeding several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision and long-term maintenance budget.