1994 BMW 740I
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1994
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1994: 7 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1993 | 15 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 9 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1997 | 3 |
| 1998 | 8 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 12 |
| 2001 | 15 |
| 2012 | 4 |
| 2013 | 1 |
| 2014 | 1 |
| 2015 | 1 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 7 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 4 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2023 | 12 |
| 2024 | 3 |
| 2025 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine.
Show complaint excerpts
1994 740I BMW leak down problem that destroyed the engine**cc the leak down flaw caused the engine to develop worn linings and exhibit a rough idle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-01-11
Since 1999 my 1994 740I with 41,367 miles has interim car shakes on the street and at freeway speeds. For two years the dealer told me it was nothing and we should replace the mounts.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-05-18
I have listed a number of complaints that are equal to the type of problem that I am having. Tell if this true and what can I do. I have a 1994 BMW 740I with 89,000 miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-01-23
Steering
2 of 7 total reports mention: steering, most commonly citing arm and hydraulic power assist system.
Show complaint excerpts
Driver turned on to heavily traveled state highway when steering wheel failed to turn tires. Car traveled across highway and came to rest just short of ditch. Car had to be towed to dealership for repair.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-09-21
Vehicle speed control
1 of 7 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Suspension
1 of 7 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
When putting vehicle in neutral, it rolls back like vechicle is still in reverse. Dealer contacted.*jb replaced bushings and idler arm and wheel alignment. Left valve cover gasket replaced. Replaced power steering return clamp.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-05-23
Also filed under Power train
Power train
1 of 7 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1996-09-30Exterior lighting96V111000 The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "Brake lights off" Position or in the "Brake lights on" Position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.
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R
1997-10-30Vehicle speed control97V131000 The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to…
Remedy: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from…
Buy-smart checklist
1994 BMW 740I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 96V111000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
FAQ
- Is the 1994 BMW 740I reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1994 BMW 740I?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1994 BMW 740I have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.