BMW 7 E38

The classic silhouette and well-designed interior have made the third-generation BMW 7 a dream for many motorists. BMW with the model code E38 debuted in 1994.

Review

The classic silhouette and well-designed interior have made the third-generation BMW 7 a dream for many motorists. BMW with the model code E38 debuted in 1994. Two years later, the engine line was revised, and in 1998 - restyling was carried out. A characteristic feature of the updated version is headlights with enlarged round reflectors. In 2001, there was a change of generations. The BMW 7 Series E38 is a cult car in a way. A significant contribution to this was made by Pierce Brosnan (James Bond, Tomorrow Never Dies), Jason Statham (The Transporter), and of course the Russian film Boomer. The car was offered only in the sedan. The length of 4.98 meters and the wheelbase of 2.93 meters indicate that we are dealing with a representative of the upper class. On the secondary market, you can find an elongated version with the letter “L”, which has a length of 5.12 meters, and the wheelbase is 3.07 m. As befits the flagship, you can not complain about the level of equipment of the BMW e38. Even in the very first instances on board there is a dual-zone climate control unit (although with manual control), a multifunctional steering wheel, a front panel decorated with elements of walnut wood, and velour upholstery. The leather was on the list of options. In later instances, the system of dynamic control of the DSC course stability appeared, a phone built into the center console, navigation with a screen and a TV tuner (standard equipment since 2000). In the last years of production, there is even an active cruise control.

Engines

At first, the car was offered only with gasoline V8 working volume of 3.0 liters and 4.0 liters. In addition, there was a flagship V12 capacity of 5.4 liters and a capacity of 326 hp. In the following years, more modest inline 6-cylinder engines appeared: gasoline 2.8 liters and diesel - 2.5 liters and 2.9 liters. The latter became popular in Europe, and the model received the designation 730d. After the update, carried out in 1998, the model range was replenished with a diesel engine - V8 with a working volume of 4.0 liters. What are the problems that BMW E38 owners face? First of all, it is overheating of gasoline engines. The cooling system requires constant monitoring of its condition. And the pump often fails. Sometimes there are expensive in eliminating leakage of oil from the glands of the crankshaft, the head of the cylinder block or the oil filter. One of the common ailments of cars with gasoline units is corrosion of the fuel tank. Motorists with a small amount of money are better suited BMW e 38 with the weakest in the lineup of 2.8-liter engine. This is the only 6-cylinder engine in the gasoline range. It copes well enough with the weight of a large sedan and at the same time inexpensive in maintenance. Much more dynamic 3-liter atmospheric. But many copies have an exorbitant oil appetite. No less interesting is the unit with a volume of 3.5 liters. It already allows you to fully experience all the charms of the “seven”. The cost of maintaining the BMW E38 increases in proportion to the power of the power unit. So the 4.4-liter unit is too voracious, and the cost of repairing the V12 will be just space.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Most of the copies have numerous problems. Most often, from the electrician, who does not tolerate unprofessional intervention and economy. Already in 1998, a liquid-cooled generator entered the standard equipment of cars with V8 and V12 engines. The cost of the new is about 35 000 rubles. In used copies, monitors, indicators, various sensors and additional equipment are often defective. Relatively often the control unit of the climate installation fails.

Due to the large number of electrical equipment, the battery has a low service life.

The suspension of the BMW e38 for a car of this class is quite cheap to repair. For about 15 000 rubles, you can replace all the Silent blocks and balls on one axis. However, versions with an active self-leveling hydropneumatic rear axle suspension should be avoided. Restoration of only one sphere with nitrogen will require at least 8000 rubles, and shock absorber - about 15 000 rubles. The new shock absorber will cost 30,000 rubles.

The suspension is considered hardy. The first problems begin to arise after 150-200 thousand km. There are many quality substitutes on the market.

In pre-restyling instances, window frames are often poorly fitted.

During the inspection, it is necessary to check the condition of the body. Even cars that have never been involved in an accident (and there are very few of them) can rust. Traces of corrosion should be sought on the trunk lid, in the corners of the doors, on the edges of the wings and under the door seals.

Automatic pre-restyling versions are considered not to be killed.

Review

• Age gives out burnt pixels on amber displays, cracks on the skin of the seats and creaking plastic.

Engines

• What are the problems that BMW E38 owners face?
• The cooling system requires constant monitoring of its condition. And the pump often fails.
• One of the common ailments of cars with gasoline units is corrosion of the fuel tank.
• So the 4.4-liter unit is too voracious, and the cost of repairing the V12 will be just space.
• With extreme caution, you need to approach the choice of diesel BMW 7.
• Expensive repairs can lead to a breakthrough of exhaust gases in the crankcase of the engine or worn-out turbocharger.
• Interestingly, due to the fact that the engines work in tandem with an automatic transmission, the two-mass flywheel does not present any problems for a very long time.
• We strongly recommend avoiding the BMW E38 with a top-end diesel V8 displacement of 3.9 liters and dual turbocharging.

Typical problems and malfunctions

• Most of the copies have numerous problems.
• Relatively often the control unit of the climate installation fails.
• The suspension of the BMW e38 for a car of this class is quite cheap to repair.
• However, versions with an active self-leveling hydropneumatic rear axle suspension should be avoided.
• The first problems begin to arise after 150-200 thousand km.
• During the inspection, it is necessary to check the condition of the body.
• Traces of corrosion should be sought on the trunk lid, in the corners of the doors, on the edges of the wings and under the door seals.

The BMW 7 Series E38 is not for everyone. A copy in good condition will give a lot of pleasant moments. Durability is estimated to be quite high. However, to maintain a healthy state requires a large financial cost. The most preferred 8-cylinder gasoline engines with a working volume of 3.5, 4.0 and 4.4 liters.

• Age gives out burnt pixels on amber displays, cracks on the skin of the seats and creaking plastic.
• What are the problems that BMW E38 owners face?
• Typical problems and malfunctions: Most instances have numerous problems.

Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.

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