Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Air conditioner: The air conditioning may leak and one of the hoses was being replaced whenever the vehicle was in for routine service. (1995-96)

Automatic transmission: The automatic transmission will malfunction, and eventually fail, if the wrong transmission fluid is added. (1995)

Dashboard lights: The oil warning light may come on due to a faulty oil pressure switch. (1995-96)

Headlights: The Xenon headlights may not illuminate if the switch is turned while cranking engine. (2000)

Odometer: The trip odometer resets itself after about 650 miles. (1995-98)

Oil leak: Oil and coolant leak from valley in V8 engine could be a rear main seal leaks. (1993-2001)

Paint/body: Using the jack bends the rocker panel on 740i models and the jacks were being replaced whenever the car was in for other service. (1995)

Poor transmission shift: The transmission will not shift out of third gear if there is a difference in tire sizes caused by low air pressure, mismatched tires, etc. (1997)

Power seats: The power seats fail due to wires being chafed underneath the seat. (1995-98)

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.

1995: Lower suspension-arm mounting eye on right rear axle-hub carrier has casting flaw and could crack and break, causing loss of control.

1995: Malfunction or failure of coolant system component can result in significantly increased coolant temperature and system pressure.

1995-97 740i: Plastic bushing for cruise control and throttle cables could break, causing throttle valve to remain partially open; car then might not decelerate as expected.

1995-97: Road grit and gravel on winter roads can damage lower front spring mounts; breakage of spring's bottom coil could affect ride height and dynamic stability, and also cause noise.

1998: Differential pinion shaft was produced without appropriate surface hardening, which can result in premature wear; would cause noise from differential and, ultimately, failure of the shaft and loss of power to rear wheels.

1999 740i: Thickness of main positive electrical cable is less than specified, making it susceptible to abrasion by attaching clip; short circuit could then occur.

1999 740i w/automatic transmission: Premature wear of ring gear can occur in some cars, leading to loss of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and reverse gears.

2000: Brake-lamp switch could fail internally, remaining either in "off" or "on" position.

2001 w/18-inch wheels: Tire sidewalls may have been damaged at the manufacturer. The damaged area could weaken to the point where a sudden loss of air from the tire could occur.

2001: Failure of the engine auxiliary/cooling fan motor can cause the electrical circuitry of the fan control unit to overload and fail, causing the fan to stop operating.