Engine Cooling System Problems of BMW 740

In April 2008 low coolant warning caused me open hood and add coolant. The coolant level was perfect but I still added more. The light for low coolant was still appearing every time I drove the car. Every preventive maintenance has been done by book on this BMW. The car has been to the dealer twice after this low coolant light but not for the coolant related service. They could have checked this and advised me of potential problem. Car has 65,000 miles. Plastic was found hardened by heat and brittleness cracked the same. 385 other BMW 740il owners have filed petition on internet for same cracked plastic radiators (on BMW 740i ,and IL models between years 1995 through 2001. BMW ignored our pleas for free replacement. Major safety issue not expected on premium car like this.

See all problems of the 2001 BMW 740 🔎.

Low coolant message came on while driving. Within a few miles, radiator cap overpresured and steam burst out while on the highway. Pulled over and was towed to the dealer. Replaced coolant hoses. 4 months later, low coolant message came on again while traveling; stopped at a service station to check level; level was very low, and a slow leak was visible. Replaced coolant reservoir assembly. 6 mos later, check engine light came on. Dealer replaced sensor. One week later, the low coolant message came on again (3rd time). Coolant was low; took to dealer for repair. All work was at owner's expense (non-warranty).

See all problems of the 1998 BMW 740 🔎.

While driving on a higway and taking a turn over a curved portion of the highway I found the power in the steering was not functioning and the steering wheel became extremely hard. Whe I tried to brake and pull to the side the brake was also quite hard. The car had then to be towed to a BMW dealershi, and the problem was detected and fixed. I was informed that the water pump had failed which resulted in the belts to break, causing a loss of power in the steering and the brakes. This was quite a disturbing experience whiel driving this car on a higway and could have caused a major accident. The BMW 740 IL is quite a heavy car and without power in the steering and the brakes it is very difficult to control the car at highway speeds. The power system failing due to water pump failure appears to be of serious concern in a vehicle that is advertised as one of the marvels of engineering. The car is still under warranty.

While driving 60mph water pump failed, causing steam to come up from hood, resulting in loss of control. Consumer stated the radiator hose blew off and the serpentine belt failed when the water pump went out.

See all problems of the 1997 BMW 740 🔎.