2014 BMW 740i

The 2014 BMW 740i is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. The 740i comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine, producing 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 in the 750i and 750Li, and a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 in the 760Li. A hybrid powertrain was also offered in the ActiveHybrid 7. The standard transmission is an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s smooth and powerful engine, luxurious features, and quiet cabin. Common complaints revolve around potentially high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and some reported issues with reliability.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55B30)

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto other engine components. The smell of burning oil is common. Low oil levels can result if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, rough idling, and decreased performance. Error codes related to VANOS system.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 (N63B44)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, visible oil leaks around the engine, and potential smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve stem seals and various gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and fuel smell. Error codes related to fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per injector.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic sleeve, causing rough shifting and/or transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, rough shifts, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, particularly at the rear, along with a warning light on the dash. Compressor failing to inflate the air springs.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Spring Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly, especially after being parked. Hissing sound from the air springs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200 per air spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days. Can be caused by various electrical components not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Diagnosis: $100 - $300, Repair: Varies depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating smoothly or not operating at all. Clicking or grinding noises when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not self-leveling, aiming incorrectly, or displaying error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the headlight control module or the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly with the key fob or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 BMW 740i offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine oil leaks, particularly in the V8 models, and electrical problems with the iDrive system and battery drain are frequent concerns. Suspension issues related to the air suspension can also be costly. While the inline-6 engine is generally more reliable than the V8, it’s not immune to problems like oil filter housing gasket leaks and VANOS issues. Transmission problems, such as mechatronic sleeve leaks, can affect the overall driving experience. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand for major engine or suspension overhauls. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic is highly recommended.