Table 1 shows two common engine and engine cooling related problems of the 1999 BMW 740.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Radiator problems | |
| Engine And Engine Cooling problems |
Fan clutch bearing seized while driving high rpm; fan blade broke, broke drive belts, hoses, water pump, shroud, radiator, and damaged hood.
BMW e38 have a high tendency for the guides for the camshaft chain (s) to fracture and come apart. This leads to plastic pieces to cause catastrophic failure, plastic and metal shavings to be observed in the lower oil pan as well as jump in timing for the owner who has to either pay$$$ or junk the car. The should have at least utilized carbon fiber guides. Many of these failures occur even before 125k. . I find it incomprehensible that someone who pays 70k for this vehicle to have to endure spending another 5-6k to get the car running again. Just look at youtube. Com and you will see what I am referring to. Wish I'd bought a used Ford.