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2015 BMW 740i

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2015 BMW 740i, categorized by major component. This model year 7 Series, part of the F01/F02 generation, offers a blend of luxury, technology, and performance. Owners appreciate the smooth ride, spacious interior, and advanced features. Some common dislikes include the complex iDrive system and the potential for costly repairs, especially as the car ages. The 2015 740i is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine producing 315 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2015 7 Series include a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 in the 750i and a 6.0-liter V12 in the 760i. A hybrid model, the ActiveHybrid 7, was also available. All models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55B30)

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, often noticed as oil drips under the car or a burning smell. The oil filter housing gasket deteriorates over time, causing oil to leak onto hot engine components.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the oil filter housing gasket leak, this results in oil leaks, a burning smell, and potentially low oil levels. The valve cover gasket hardens and cracks with age.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Camshaft Timing) system can experience issues due to faulty solenoids. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased performance, and potential engine error codes.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per solenoid
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic unit sleeve where the wiring harness connects to the transmission. Can lead to shifting problems or complete transmission failure if fluid levels drop too low.
    • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and refill the transmission fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid and can experience wear or failure of solenoids and valves over time. Symptoms include harsh shifting, slipping, delayed engagement, and potential transmission error codes.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience compressor failure, resulting in a saggy ride height, uneven stance, and error messages.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The air struts can develop leaks over time, causing the suspension to lose pressure and resulting in a bouncy ride or uneven stance.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000 per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system, responsible for controlling many vehicle functions, can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures.
    • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the iDrive unit may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,500+ (unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This is often caused by a module not properly shutting down.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the battery drain (often requires a professional mechanic with specialized diagnostic equipment) and repair or replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (simple fix) - $1,000+ (complex issue)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to go up or down, or makes grinding noises.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle LED Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The LED lights integrated into the exterior door handles may fail.
    • Solution: Replace the affected door handle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per handle
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can become stuck, make excessive noise, or leak water.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof mechanism, which may involve cleaning, lubrication, or replacement of damaged parts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 BMW 740i offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues outlined above. The most prevalent issues seem to revolve around oil leaks, transmission issues, and electrical glitches. The severity of these problems can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs, potentially reaching several thousand dollars for major components like the transmission or air suspension. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

BMW, 740i
BMW 740i 2015
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