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2021 BMW 740i

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2021 BMW 740i, categorized for clarity and accuracy.

The 2021 BMW 740i is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. The 740i, comes equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a plug-in hybrid inline-six in the 745e, a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 in the 750i, and a mighty 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 in the M760i. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 740i’s comfortable seats, quiet cabin, and user-friendly infotainment system. Criticisms often include the high price point, some complex tech features, and running costs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six (B58)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks often occur at the thermostat housing or expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing or expansion tank.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (8HP)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough shifting, particularly during downshifts, or hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
    • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4000+ (transmission replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension can sometimes experience issues, leading to the vehicle sitting unevenly or failing to adjust ride height correctly. Error messages might appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to identify leaking air struts or a malfunctioning air compressor. Replacement of the affected components is typically required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (per strut, compressor prices vary)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system glitches, screen freezing, or unresponsive controls. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto may also occur.
    • Solution: Software updates are often the first step. In some cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1500+ (control unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver assistance systems. This can manifest as false alerts or system inoperability.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per sensor)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Automatic Soft-Close Doors
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to fully latch or close automatically.
    • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the soft-close door actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ (per door)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust correctly or becoming stuck.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty motor or switch, followed by replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per seat)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 BMW 740i exhibits a range of potential issues, some of which can be costly to repair. Engine oil and coolant leaks are relatively common but typically not catastrophic. More significant concerns revolve around the air suspension and electrical systems, particularly the iDrive system, which can lead to expensive repairs. The 8-speed automatic transmission can also present problems with rough shifting. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering a 2021 740i.

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