1998 BMW 740IL
Only 26 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 26 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1993 | 9 |
| 1994 | 3 |
| 1995 | 12 |
| 1996 | 11 |
| 1997 | 19 |
| 1998 | 26 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2000 | 20 |
| 2001 | 26 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 26 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
6 of 26 total reports mention: electrical system.
4 of 26 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
FAULTY RADIATORS THAT HAVE A DESIGN FLAW THAT ALLOWS FOR THE RADIATOR NECK TO BREAK OFF WITHOUT NOTICE AND SPRAY HOT COOLANT EVERYWHERE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20031022
3 of 26 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline.
3 of 26 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline.
2 of 26 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
I WAS DRIVING MY BMW 740IL ON 2-17-2015 WHEN AFTER GETTING ONTO THE HIGHWAY AND ACCELERATING, THERE WAS A LOUD BOOM NOISE AND BLACK PIECES SHOT OUT ONTO THE ROAD IN FRONT OF ME.
NHTSA ODI report, 20150225
SAFETY TIMELINE
FCP GROTON IS RECALLING CERTAIN STEERING CENTER DRAG LINKS, P/N 32 21 1 096 057, SOLD FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 9, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL YEAR 1995 THROUGH 2001 BMW 740I, 74
Remedy: FCP GROTON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE TIE ROD WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FCP GROTON TOLL-FREE AT 1-877-634-0
Campaign 10E021000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 BMW 740IL — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 10E021000 (steering) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1998 BMW 740IL 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 1998 BMW 740IL?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 BMW 740IL have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.