2017 BMW Alpina B7

The 2017 BMW Alpina B7 is a high-performance luxury sedan, renowned for its blend of speed, comfort, and exclusivity. It features a modified version of BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing around 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the B7 for its exceptional power delivery, smooth ride quality, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes can include the higher running costs associated with a performance vehicle, complex electronics that can be prone to glitches, and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gaskets, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks from Plastic Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and leaking of plastic coolant pipes and expansion tanks. This leads to coolant loss and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the plastic components with updated or aftermarket aluminum parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, reduced power, and eventual failure of the turbochargers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ (depending on if both turbos are replaced and labor costs).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, rough shifts between gears, and potential slipping.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement, or valve body replacement. In severe cases, complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 for fluid flush to $5,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low, especially overnight. “Selflevel susp. inactive” error message on the iDrive screen. Noises coming from the air compressor while attempting to inflate the bags.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual deflation of the air struts, causing the vehicle to sit unevenly and degrade ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut (including labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or complete failure of the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for software updates to $2,000+ for control unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially when the vehicle is left unused for extended periods. Can be caused by parasitic drain from various modules.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic drain and repair or replacement of the faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive LED Headlight Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning adaptive headlights, including erratic movement, failure to self-level, or complete failure of the LED elements.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly or individual components, depending on the nature of the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the electric seat motors, resulting in the inability to adjust the seat position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the motor and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW Alpina B7, while offering exceptional performance and luxury, has common issues related to its complex systems. Engine oil and coolant leaks, turbocharger problems, air suspension failures, and electrical glitches are the most prevalent. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs. Owners should be prepared for higher maintenance costs associated with this high-performance vehicle.