1996 BMW 740IL: problems, recalls and reliability
2 recalls and 11 owner complaints on record; most reports concern engine and engine cooling.
Data updated weekly · latest recall May 2010
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“Anytime you are accelerating the throttle cable will either get stuck or if you let off the gas pedal its will continue to accelerate. This can be very dangerous especially upon entering the highway. This occurred pretty regularly until we had the throttle cable replaced. *tr”Owner report · Vehicle Speed Control · Jun 2008
“Vehicle is experiencing sudden acceleration. As soon as the vehicle is started, the rpm's will rev up to 3500 rpms preventing the driver from putting the vehicle in gear without a possible crash. Driver would apply the brakes but the vehicle will continue to surge. Provide further detail. Defective parts replaced. Car went by itself to 90 mph on the interstate. Replaced front throttle body gasket and idle speed regulator. *bf *nm”Owner report · Vehicle Speed Control · Feb 2005
“Hood came crashing up against windshield while driving on freeeway. This could have caused a crash dealer found that the safety hold down pin on the left side hood lock was missing, dealer replaced the hood lock assembly. *ak *slc”Owner report · Latches/Locks/Linkages · Nov 2000
Show 3 more owner reports
“Gas tank imploded sucking itself in and causing gas to leak and spill. Tank was replaced in september of 2000. However, problem has been ongoing since then. Also, there are popping noises coming from tank area, which means that gas in tank is not properly venting,causing a build up. Technicians have heard the noise, but are unable to rectify it when it's not doing it.*ak”Owner report · Fuel System, Gasoline · Sep 2000
“Brake warning light switch failed, allowing the switch to remain in the brake light off position or in the brake light on position. Also, when turning vehicle off, the warning brake light comes on. *ak”Owner report · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · Jan 2000
“Vehicle was involed in sudden acceleration while traveling on the highway with cruise control engaged at approximately 55 mph. Consumer was approaching oncoming vehicle, applied brakes to slow down, as soon as he lifted his foot from pedal, vehicle suddenly took off. Went out of control and hit a parked vehicle on side of road before stopping. Als,o both air bags failed to delpoy. Seeking help from NHTSA in this matter. Dealer notified. *ak”Owner report · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · May 1999
When filing, owners marked a crash in 1 of these complaints and injuries in 1 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 2 campaigns
FCP GROTON IS RECALLING CERTAIN STEERING CENTER DRAG LINKS, P/N 32 21 1 096 057, SOLD FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 9, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL YEAR 1995 THROUGH 2001 BMW 740I, 740IL, AND 750IL PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SHAFT OF THE STEERING CENTER TIE ROD MAY SHEAR OFF.
Remedy: FCP GROTON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE TIE ROD WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FCP GROTON TOLL-FREE AT 1-877-634-0063.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. ROAD GRIT AND GRAVEL ASSOCIATED WITH WINTER ROAD CONDITIONS CAN PENETRATE THE RUBBER OF THE LOWER FRONT SPRING MOUNTS AND ACCUMULATE IN THE MOUNTS CAUSING NOTCHES OR PITS TO DEVELOP. THESE NOTCHES CAN DEVELOP CRACKS RESULTING IN BREAKAGE OF A BOTTOM COIL OF THE SPRING.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH FRONT SPRINGS AND LOWER SPRING MOUNTS.
Specifications
Factory options offered for the 1996 model year, decoded from the NHTSA vPIC database. Individual vehicles have one of each.
How other years compare
Check your exact 740IL by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 1996 BMW 740IL reliable?
NHTSA has 11 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns on record for the 1996 BMW 740IL. The most complained-about area is engine and engine cooling.
Does the 1996 BMW 740IL have open recalls?
2 recall campaigns have been issued, the latest concerning steering:linkages:drag:link:connection. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.