2021 BMW 745e

2021 BMW 745e

Overview

The 2021 BMW 745e, a plug-in hybrid variant of the flagship 7 Series sedan, combines luxury, performance, and electrified efficiency. It features a sophisticated powertrain designed for both spirited driving and reduced emissions. As with any advanced vehicle, understanding potential reliability concerns is crucial for owners. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into common problem areas and their potential resolutions. The 745e’s complex hybrid system and premium features necessitate a detailed look at its reliability profile.

---

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 Plug-in Hybrid

Hybrid Battery Degradation

• Symptoms: Reduced electric-only range, decreased overall power output, charging issues.
• Solution: Battery pack replacement.
• Cost: $10,000 - $20,000+

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, warning lights.
• Solution: Repair or replace leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
• Cost: $500 - $1,500

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (with Hybrid Integration)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Adaptive Air Suspension

Air Spring Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, uneven ride height, compressor running excessively.
• Solution: Replace leaking air springs or air compressor.
• Cost: $800 - $2,500 per corner for springs, $500 - $1,200 for compressor.

Electrical

Infotainment System

Software Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, connectivity issues (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
• Solution: Software updates, system resets, or module replacement.
• Cost: $200 - $1,000

Hybrid System Electronics

Control Module Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Hybrid system warning lights, loss of power, charging faults.
• Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty control modules.
• Cost: $1,000 - $3,000

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Climate Control System

Actuator Failures

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow to specific zones, unusual noises from dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty HVAC actuators.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Seat Adjustments

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

---

Summary Verdict

The 2021 BMW 745e, while offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience, presents some potential reliability concerns primarily related to its complex hybrid powertrain and associated electronics. Issues such as hybrid battery degradation and cooling system leaks are significant but not uncommon for vehicles of this type. Electrical gremlins within the infotainment and hybrid control modules can also arise. The air suspension, a common feature in luxury sedans, can experience leaks. While the engine and transmission are generally robust, the hybrid components and advanced electrical systems require diligent maintenance and can lead to costly repairs if issues develop. Owners should be prepared for potential expenses related to these advanced systems.