2022 BMW Alpina B7

The 2022 BMW Alpina B7 is a high-performance luxury sedan based on the BMW 7 Series. It’s known for its hand-finished interior, exclusive exterior design elements, and a focus on both performance and comfort. The sole engine option is a heavily modified 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Alpina B7 for its exceptional ride quality, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes sometimes include the high price point, and the fact that some driver assistance technologies are less sophisticated than those found in some competitors.

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks (Various Locations)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected gasket or line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported turbocharger issues, including failures of the turbocharger impeller. This can result in reduced power, increased oil consumption, and unusual noises from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP76)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough shifting, hesitation, or jerky movements between gears, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update of the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 for software update, $1,500 - $3,000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The Alpina B7 features an air suspension system. Issues can arise with the air struts or compressor. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, sagging, or failure to adjust ride height. Warning messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty component (air strut, compressor, or level sensor). Replacement of the malfunctioning part is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $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, including freezing, slow response times, and unexpected reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. If the problem persists, hardware replacement of the iDrive unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update, $1,000 - $2,000+ for hardware replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Various)
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle (e.g., parking sensors, driver-assistance sensors) can fail, leading to warning lights and/or malfunctioning systems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor, depending on the type and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Functionality Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with seat adjustment motors, heating, or cooling functions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty motors, heating elements, or control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+, depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trim Pieces Loosening
  • Description/Symptoms: Some reports of interior trim pieces (e.g., around the dashboard, doors) becoming loose or detached.
  • Solution: Reattaching or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the piece and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2022 BMW Alpina B7, while a luxurious and high-performing vehicle, has a few potential issues to be aware of. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be costly to repair. Air suspension malfunctions are also relatively common and expensive. Electrical issues are also possible, but not necessarily serious. Overall, the issues present range from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs, which is not surprising considering the complexity of the vehicle. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.