2019 BMW Alpina B7

The 2019 BMW Alpina B7 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its blend of power, comfort, and exclusivity. It’s essentially a heavily modified version of the BMW 7 Series, offering enhanced performance and unique styling. The sole engine option is a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the B7 for its impressive acceleration, refined handling, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include its high price tag and potentially expensive maintenance costs.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may be observed around the valve cover area, potentially leading to a burning smell or oil accumulating on the engine components.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks from Expansion Tank/Hoses
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur at the expansion tank or radiator hoses, leading to low coolant levels and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected coolant hoses or the expansion tank.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of rough shifting, particularly during downshifts, or hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience issues such as sagging, uneven ride height, or failure to adjust properly. These issues can stem from a leak in one of the air struts or a faulty compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected air strut(s) or the air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, such as freezing, lagging, or random reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the iDrive unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (iDrive unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to a dead battery, particularly if the vehicle is left unattended for extended periods. This can be due to a faulty module not properly shutting down.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights may malfunction, causing them to aim incorrectly or fail to adjust properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the headlight control module or the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight assembly
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors may fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor or the entire seat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 BMW Alpina B7, while a luxurious and high-performing vehicle, can be susceptible to certain issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks are relatively common, as are issues with the air suspension system. Electrical glitches within the infotainment system and adaptive headlights can also occur. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for more extensive work, particularly involving the suspension or transmission. While not every B7 will experience these issues, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problem areas.