2016 BMW 750Li
The 2016 BMW 750Li is a luxury sedan known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. It offers a blend of performance and opulence that appeals to discerning drivers. The 750Li comes standard with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2016 7 Series included a 3.0-liter inline-6 cylinder engine (740i/Li) and a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine paired with an electric motor (740e/Le xDrive iPerformance). All models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the 750Li’s smooth power delivery, luxurious interior, and abundance of features. Common dislikes include the complex electronics, potential for expensive repairs, and somewhat numb steering feel compared to older BMWs.
Engine
N63 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Retorquing bolts has sometimes been successful for minor leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the leak location.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are common around the turbocharger coolant lines and the “valley” of the engine, causing overheating, low coolant level warnings, and white smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking hoses, pipes, or water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ depending on the location.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation during acceleration is also reported.
- Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) might help in some cases. Otherwise, fluid change and/or valve body replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (software update) to $2,500+ (valve body replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, responsible for the 750Li’s smooth ride, can develop leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or sensor malfunctions. This results in a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, or suspension malfunction warnings.
- Solution: Replace the leaking air struts, air compressor, or faulty sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800-$1500 for the compressor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience freezing, rebooting, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
- Solution: Software updates sometimes resolve the issue. Otherwise, replacement of the iDrive control unit may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (software update), $1,500 - $3,000+ (control unit replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain is a common complaint, often related to modules not properly going to sleep or excessive electrical draw when the vehicle is off. Can cause the car to not start after sitting for only a few days.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw. This can involve updating software for various modules or replacing faulty components that are not shutting down properly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (battery test) to $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can fail to adjust properly, display error messages, or stop working altogether.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty headlight unit or control module is usually necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Comfort Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Motors in the seats fail, causing adjustment issues.
- Solution: Replace the seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ depending on motor and if its DIY or Professional work.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 BMW 750Li offers a luxurious and powerful driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues it faces. Engine oil and coolant leaks are prevalent, and the air suspension and electrical systems can be prone to malfunctions. Repairs can be expensive, particularly those involving the engine, suspension, and iDrive system. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, being aware of them can help prospective buyers make informed decisions and budget accordingly. The issues range from moderate to severe in terms of impact, and repair costs can vary significantly depending on the specific problem and repair shop.