MotorDeets

BMW 745I problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every 745I from 2001 to 2008: 128 owner complaints and 10 recalls across 8 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2002 (54), 2003 (32), 2004 (24). Best fuel economy: 19 mpg combined (2005).

BMW 745I
Photo: IFCAR · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Transmission & drivetrain38
Electrical27
Airbags20
Brakes (hydraulic)16
Engine15
Engine & cooling10
Brakes9
Seat belts6

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200101–
200225419
200323219
200402419
200531619
200610–
200711–
200810–

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the BMW 745I.

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Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the BMW 745I?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2002 (54), 2003 (32), 2004 (24).

How many recalls has the BMW 745I had?

Across 2001–2008, NHTSA lists 10 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).