2018 BMW M760Li xDrive
The 2018 BMW M760Li xDrive is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful V12 engine, opulent interior, and advanced technology. The M760Li variant, offered with all-wheel drive (xDrive), delivers impressive acceleration and handling for its size. Besides the V12, the standard 7 Series lineup offers engine options such as turbocharged inline-six and V8 engines. The M760Li is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, strong acceleration, and luxurious features, while some common criticisms include the high cost of maintenance and potential reliability issues that come with complex systems. The M760Li generates 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.
Engine
N74B66T V12 Engine
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, typically from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. This can lead to visible oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and potentially low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the location of the leak and shop rates.
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various points in the cooling system such as hoses, radiator, or expansion tank. Can lead to overheating.
- Solution: Locate and repair leaking components, and replace any deteriorating parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and potentially a check engine light. Can be caused by faulty ignition coils.
- Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on how many coils need replacing and shop rates.
Transmission
8HP90 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Can also include slipping or hesitation during gear changes.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and potentially software update. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid flush and software update. $1,500 - $4,000+ for valve body or rebuild.
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds or during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Car sitting unevenly, sagging on one or more corners, or the compressor running constantly. “Level Control System Inactive” message on the iDrive screen.
- Solution: Replacing faulty air struts, compressor, or ride height sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, depending on whether it’s front or rear and aftermarket vs. OEM. Compressor replacement: $800 - $1,500+.
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or displaying error messages. Could also cause related issues with connected systems.
- Solution: Software updates, module reset, or replacement of the iDrive computer unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for software update. $500 - $2,000+ for module replacement, depending on the module.
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of inactivity. Can be caused by faulty modules not entering sleep mode or excessive parasitic draw.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, replace faulty module, or replace the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for diagnosis. $300 - $1,000+ to repair depending on the cause. Battery replacement $300 - $600+
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights related to advanced safety features such as blind spot monitoring, parking assist, or lane departure warning.
- Solution: Diagnostic to identify and replace faulty sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per sensor, depending on the sensor and labor.
Exterior
- Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling properly, or error message on the iDrive screen.
- Solution: Diagnosis to find if it is a sensor, a motor, or the whole unit
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
Interior
- Seat Massage and Ventilation System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The seat massage or ventilation functions not working, or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing faulty motors, fans, or control units.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500+
Summary
The 2018 BMW M760Li xDrive is a high-performance luxury sedan that delivers exceptional power and comfort. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, which include engine oil and coolant leaks, transmission problems, and electrical system glitches. The air suspension system is also known to be problematic. Repair costs can be high due to the complexity of the vehicle and the price of replacement parts. While many owners enjoy the M760Li’s performance and luxury, the potential for expensive repairs should be considered before purchasing.