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2011 BMW Alpina B7L

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By Research the Car 2 min read

Introduction:

The 2011 BMW Alpina B7L is a high-performance luxury sedan based on the BMW 7 Series. It features an upgraded 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine, producing an impressive 540 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle offers an exceptional combination of power and refinement. However, some common issues have been reported by owners.

Engine

  • 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 Engine:
    • Intake Valve Sticking: Sticking intake valves can lead to engine misfires, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, rough idle, illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty intake valves and cleaning of carbon deposits.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Transmission

  • 8-Speed Automatic Transmission:
    • Sudden Transmission Gear Slippage: Transmission gears may slip unexpectedly during driving, causing rough shifts and loss of power.
    • Description/Symptoms: Jerking or slipping during gear changes, difficulty shifting, illuminated transmission warning light.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty transmission components (e.g., torque converter, valve body).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

Suspension

  • Front Control Arms:
    • Control Arm Bushing Failure: Worn or damaged control arm bushings can lead to excessive noise and vibration during driving, as well as reduced handling stability.
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per side

Electrical

  • Power Tailgate:
    • Defective Actuator: The tailgate actuator may malfunction, causing the tailgate to open or close unexpectedly.
    • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate not opening or closing properly, intermittent tailgate operation.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty tailgate actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Rearview Camera:
    • Blurry or Distorted Image: The rearview camera may produce a blurry or distorted image, making it difficult to see behind the vehicle.
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor image quality on the rearview camera display.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty camera or wiring harness.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

  • Headlights:
    • Dim or Flickering Headlights: Headlights may begin to dim or flicker prematurely.
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced headlight brightness, flickering or intermittent headlight operation.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty headlight bulbs or ballasts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

  • Navigation System:
    • Navigation Map Freezing: The navigation system may freeze or become unresponsive during use.
    • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, inability to enter or follow directions.
    • Solution: Software update or replacement of faulty navigation unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+

Summary:

The 2011 BMW Alpina B7L is a powerful and luxurious vehicle that does have some reported issues. The most common problems involve the engine, transmission, and suspension components. While some of these repairs can be costly, many of the electrical and interior issues can be resolved for a reasonable price. Overall, the severity and cost of the potential issues should be considered before purchasing a used B7L.

BMW, Alpina B7L
BMW Alpina B7L 2011
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