Used Car Expert Fault Guides tell you the common BMW 7-Series faults and wear items that can become problems and big bills for their owner.
Independent research indicated that using our fault guides to check a car before you buy it can save you an average of £300 in surprise bills and hidden problems.
That's because our BMW 7-Series fault guides are written so that anyone can understand them – even if you know nothing about cars and have no tools. For every common fault, we tell you what to look for, what it means and what it costs.
Select your BMW 7-Series fault guide:
BMW 7-Series (1994 - 1998) Fault Guide
BMW 7 - Series (2002 - Present) Fault Guide
BMW 7-Series (1994 - 1998) Fault Guide
We know of 16 BMW 7-Series (1994 - 1998) faults which our fault check guide makes it easy for you to spot and avoid.
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4 engine faults
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1 suspension wear items or faults
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5 interior problems
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1 bodywork issues
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5 recalls
Here's an example fault on the BMW 7-Series (1994 - 1998)
What to look for:
Open the bonnet and look for rubber hoses at the back of the engine (behind the cylinder head, near the top of the engine). Check to see if any of the rubber hoses look cracked or perished, or for any signs of a water leak.
What it means:
The hose behind the cylinder head is the most likely hose to spring a leak. This leak will quickly drain the engine of all it coolant, which can lead to overheating and serious engine damage. This hose is prone to going at around 80,000 miles.
What to do
Negotiate a £180 discount to have the hose replaced. Budget to have it done at around 80,000 miles.
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BMW 7 - Series (2002 - Present) Fault Guide
We know of 13 BMW 7 - Series (2002 - Present) faults which our fault check guide makes it easy for you to spot and avoid.
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2 engine faults
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2 suspension wear items or faults
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1 interior problems
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1 bodywork issues
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7 recalls
Here's an example fault on the BMW 7 - Series (2002 - Present)
What to look for:
1) Throughout the test drive, keep a close eye on all the electronic readings and devices. The car has had many software updates to fix sporadic and varied electronic faults.
2) Contact a dealer, read the car's VIN number to them and ask if there are any outstanding software updates.
What it means:
If there are any electronic faults or outstanding updates, the car needs a diagnostics test and software update from a specialist or main dealer.
What to do
Have the car examined before buying. A diagnostics check can cost up to £200.
Register to have full access to the BMW 7 - Series (2002 - Present) fault guide.
Registered users also get access to our regional price guides, cars for sale email alerts, and many other benefits to help you buy a safe, reliable used car at a great price.