2002-2008 BMW 7-Series: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation BMW 7-Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation BMW 7-Series .
Trouble Spots
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.
Battery:
The battery may die overnight if the key is left in the ignition on vehicles with electronic immobilizer system. (2004-06)
Electrical problem:
The instrument display may switch back and forth between US and metric requiring the computer to be recoded. (2002)
Electrical problem:
Night vision display malfunctions due to wiring harness damage near headlights. (2006-07)
Electrical problem:
The Cingular digital phone may malfunction (dropped calls, failure to receive incoming calls, etc.) requiring reprogramming of the telephone control unit. (2002)
Electrical problem:
Automatic headlights may not go off when exiting a tunnel or parking garage due to conflict between headlight module and rain sensor. (2005-06)
Engine noise:
Engine may ping under light load, idle high or stumble when cold requiring software update. (2005-07)
Transmission problems:
Transmission may intermittently go into fail-safe mode (and may feel strange) due to controller area network (CAN) bus system errors. (2005-06)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
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.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $810 |
| Alternator | $765 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $6,550 |
| Brakes | $600 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $950 |
| Exhaust System | $560 |
| Radiator | $650 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,890 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,825 |
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