2021 BMW Alpina B7

The 2021 BMW Alpina B7 is a high-performance luxury sedan based on the BMW 7 Series. It is known for its blend of comfort, performance, and exclusivity. The Alpina B7 for the 2021 model year came equipped with a heavily modified version of BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing around 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. There were no other engine options available. It came standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission built by ZF. Owners typically praise the B7 for its effortless power, refined ride quality, luxurious interior, and subtle yet distinctive styling. Common dislikes revolve around the high price tag, potential maintenance costs associated with a high-performance vehicle, and the fact that some may prefer a more overtly sporty driving experience.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the water pump, coolant hoses, or the radiator. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, low coolant level warnings, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty water pump, hoses, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears, or hesitation when accelerating from a stop. This can be due to worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $8,000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Alpina B7 utilizes an air suspension system for enhanced ride comfort. Issues can arise with the air struts, air compressor, or the control module. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a rough ride, or error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Modern luxury vehicles are heavily reliant on complex software. Some owners have reported experiencing software glitches that can affect various systems, including the infotainment system, driver assistance features, and even engine management. Symptoms can vary widely, but may include frozen screens, error messages, or malfunctioning features.
  • Solution: Software updates, module reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory. Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the car, or warning messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• iDrive Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience glitches, freezing, or unresponsiveness.
  • Solution: Software update, module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 BMW Alpina B7, while a stunning and high-performing vehicle, does have some potential issues owners might encounter. These include oil and coolant leaks, transmission issues, air suspension problems, electrical glitches, and iDrive malfunctions. The severity of these issues can vary, with potential repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for more complex repairs. While not every B7 will experience these problems, being aware of them can help prospective buyers make a more informed decision and budget accordingly for potential maintenance.