Thinking about buying a 1996-1998 740iL, anyone with ownership experiences?

Question

I have a 1998 328iC, and I'm considering a change to the 740iL. Any comments from owners?

Answer 1

The 740iL is a great car. As with anything there are pros & cons.
As long as you go in with some idea of what to expect you will love the car, if not you can be very un-happy.
The car does have some problem with oxegyn sensors and catalytic converters if the cars are not maintained properly. Yes BMW does need suspension work as the miles add up but its because of the ride and control the give. Its a trade of they could build cars that don't need it but you would lose the feel that make it a BMW.
If you buy an automatic look for one with low miles. The car has "lifetime fluid" which means that if its not changed that trans will most likley fail around 100,000 to 130,000 miles.
On the engine they have few problems other than the thermostat housing and the oil breather on the back of the heads. Since you already have a BMW I belive you know about keeping an eye on the cooling system.
Good luck hope you get the car you want.

Answer 2

I have 3 BMW's and one of them is a 1997 740iL! and it is AMAZING to drive, but there are some things to look at when buying one of these cars especially this old! First off the mileage should be no higher then 60,000 because some parts go out like control arms, steering and suspension parts, the radiator, maybe fuel pump, catalytic converters, O2 sensors, pixels fading on the cluster ( which can be fixed easily) and a lot of other parts and problems it can happen if the car is not maintained almost perfectly! If you buy any BMW be VERY prepared to pay a lot for repairs and other maintainence! Also look at www.e38.org!

Hope you find the Perfect one, and have fun driving!

Answer 3

The 740iL, if its no longer in warranty, is a black hole of a money pit.

GREAT car but mind-boggling, skull-crushing repair costs should anything major happen.

Major issues? Electronic component failures mostly.

If you find a nice low miles car, first of all take it in for a thorough inspection. Then, you yourself should play with every switch and accessory over and over again; also take a long test drive.

And don't pay too much---these cars depreciate heavily over time.

Answer 4

You are about making a revolution :
With your 328iC you can see the road but driving with the 740iL you can feel how to fly.
finally why not if not.

Answer 5

I have 3 BMW and never had experience electric problem, usually Audi's cam with electric problems. You can buy high mileage but tack to BMW dealer and let them to put in a computer and they can find out if the car in a perfect condition or has problems. good luck

Answer 6

i had a 2004 325i new and that son of a gun was always overheating becazuse the mechanic told the cooling system parts are all made of pl;astic and those bills werent cheap then also alot of emission related parts which made my check engine light go on and that was only with 45000 miles and when my mechanic told me to go buy a honda and i did id like to thank him for that no problems and 21000 miles on it now

Answer 7

Be ready to shell out big bucks when it needs servicing, German cars are famous for electric problems, their engines are great but treat right or the engine will end up costing you $10,000 USD.

Answer 8

Omg man, that's my dream, dude don't hesitate, go for it. Just make sure its under 60,000 Miles and it has a clean carfax report. Also try to get a certified per owned one from you local BMW dealer.

Answer 9

nice rig!! just few issues:

1.- headlights relay
2.- radiator fan clutch
3.- the radiator who is inside the dashboard for heather, I think is names something with core.

Everything else is sweet!!