740 Common Problems

Engine / Drive Train
Nikasil Engine block
Transmission Valve body
Transmission fluid is very expensive, $25 per liter
Transmission Flex Disk (Normal wear item)
Transmission mounts (Normal wear item)
Oxygen sensors (Normal wear item)
Idle control valve (usually just dirty)

Suspension
Front end components (these are heavy cars)
LAD, Self leveling system. Installed on all iL cars in the US.
LAD Accumulators (inexpensive), or Struts (Expensive)
Brakes & amp; brake disks (these are heavy cars)
Sway bar links

Cosmetic / Interior
Seat back twist (or other seat position problems)
Seat wiggle
Door and windshield seals

The transmission is sealed with no way to check with a dipstick. The fluid (Shell LA 2634) should be replaced at least every 100k miles. If not already done, this can cost over $300. The valve body can be a DIY job, the kit costs about $100. If it was done once, it should be good to go. If you notice any shifting problems with the car, offer a lot less for it. A rebuilt tranny will cost at least $2000 plus installation.

If it has a Nikasil engine, stay away unless you get a great price. Engine replacements can cost $4000 or more. Make sure it is an Alusil block.

The LAD is a great system but the struts are expensive. The system usually holds up pretty well, but you may need to do adjustments. A SUSPENSION LEVELING warning message usually means the system is out of adjustment. Use it for a barganing chip for a lower price if it shows up.

The IHKA (Heater/Air Conditioner) system is complex and there have been a lot of problems with the older cars (88-90). It has not seemed to have caught up to the newer cars yet, but I could be wrong. The microfilter needs to be replaced on schedule.

This is a partial list but I think it covers most of the big items.
All prices are in US dollars. As always, get it checked by a competent BMW mechanic before you buy and make sure it has good maintenance history records.


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Eric Hall
1994 740iL Black/Tan 80k
Albany, OR