2017 BMW 740e xDrive

The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that blends performance and fuel efficiency. Its powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 322 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 740e is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 740e was discontinued after 2019. Owners often praise the car’s smooth ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. However, some criticisms include limited all-electric range, relatively small trunk space due to the battery pack, and the complexity of the hybrid system leading to potential maintenance issues. The 740i and 750i models feature different engines. The 740i features a 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder with 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque and the 750i features a 4.4L turbo V8 with 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.

Electric Motor

• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric motor may fail to operate, resulting in reduced performance and the inability to drive in all-electric mode. Error messages related to the electric drive system may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the electric motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may develop around the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replacing the coolant reservoir and hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing, can occur. These leaks may be minor initially but can worsen over time, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Visible oil spots under the car are a common sign.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly during low-speed acceleration or downshifting. This can manifest as jerky movements or a noticeable lag between gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update, valve body replacement, or transmission replacement (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, which provides a comfortable ride, can be prone to leaks or compressor failures. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, or a non-functional suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or related sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (control unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging System Errors
  • Description/Symptoms: Charging issues, such as failure to charge, slow charging speeds, or error messages related to the charging system, can occur. This may be due to a faulty charging cable, onboard charger, or battery management system.
  • Solution: Replacing the charging cable, onboard charger, or battery management system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (charging cable) - $3,000+ (onboard charger/battery management system)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery pack failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery pack failure will trigger an alert on the dashboard. The electric driving range will be reduced, and if the battery pack has failed completely the vehicle will not start.
  • Solution: Replace the entire battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000 - $20,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light LED Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The LED taillights may experience individual LED failures or complete assembly failure.
  • Solution: Taillight assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Comfort System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The multi-contour seats, while offering excellent adjustability and comfort, can experience issues with the massaging function, lumbar support, or heating/cooling elements.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive, while offering a blend of luxury and efficiency, is prone to issues related to its complex hybrid powertrain and advanced technology. Issues range from relatively minor coolant and oil leaks to more significant problems with the electric motor, air suspension, and iDrive system. Battery pack failure can be extremely costly. These issues suggest potential repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to upwards of $20,000, depending on the severity and component involved.