BMW 740 2009

🚨 What to check before buying

Overall risk score: 10/10

Serious risks

• VANOS solenoid & bolts: VANOS solenoid bolts can loosen/break. BMW issued recall for some models. VANOS solenoids themselves also wear.
• Valve cover / oil filter housing gasket: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket. Very common. Budget for replacement.
• Ignition coil failure: Coil packs can fail intermittently, causing misfires under load.
• Electric water pump failure: Same electric water pump as N52 — can fail without warning. Preventative replacement recommended.
• Oil pan gasket leak: Oil pan gasket can seep at higher mileage, leaving oil on undertray.
• Wastegate rattle / charge pipe: Wastegate can develop rattle. Plastic charge pipe can crack under boost. Aftermarket aluminium pipe is a permanent fix.

Additional notes

• Older BMW with 200k+ km will likely need suspension refresh (control arms, bushings: €600-1,200), possibly cooling system components (water pump, thermostat: €300-700), and various sensor replacements. Budget accordingly.
• Vehicle is 15+ years old. Age-related issues: rubber seals/hoses degrade, electrical connectors corrode, suspension bushings wear. Not specific to any engine, but expect €500-1,500/year in age-related maintenance beyond normal service items.
• Any car with 200k+ km requires extra scrutiny. At this mileage: suspension components are worn (bushings, ball joints, shocks), seals and gaskets are hardened, electrical connectors corrode, and major components approach end-of-life. For luxury cars (BMW, Mercedes, Audi) the cost of 200k+ km maintenance can exceed the car's value. Always get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) and budget 15-25% of purchase price for immediate maintenance.