Dream Deal or Mechanical Headache?

It’s exhausting to disregard the attraction of a used BMW 750i on the G11/G12 platform of the high-end sedan. As soon as the flagship of Bavaria’s luxurious lineup, the 2016–2022 7 Sequence supplied limousine-tier consolation and V8 efficiency wrapped in a delicate—but unmistakably premium—bundle. With depreciation working exhausting behind the scenes, particularly within the luxurious automobile phase, many of those once-$100,000 sedans can now be had for as little as $35,000. However beneath that tempting price ticket lies a vital query: is that this luxurious sedan a hidden gem or a mechanical lure?

Let’s break down what makes the G11/G12 technology 750i so fascinating—and the place issues can go very fallacious.

A $100K Expertise for Quarter of the Worth?

When the G11/G12 7 Sequence was up to date in 2019-2020, BMW pulled no punches. The facelift launched the daring and large new kidney grills, sleeker laser headlights, and one of the crucial refined interiors ever to grace a 7 Sequence. Extra importantly, the 750i obtained a considerably revised 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8—often called the N63TU3—delivering 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. That’s sufficient to catapult the 750i from 0 to 60 in slightly below 4 seconds, putting it squarely in M-level territory, but it stays whisper-quiet and composed at cruising speeds.

Inside, the cabin feels extra like a lounge than a automobile. Options like massaging, heated, and ventilated seats (each entrance and rear), the elective Bowers & Wilkins Diamond sound system, and the starlit Sky Lounge LED roof deliver a way of event that few rivals can match. It additionally has loads of new tech—iDrive 7.0, Gesture Control, adaptive cruise, semi-autonomous driving aids, and rear-seat leisure all featured prominently in better-equipped fashions.

From the motive force’s seat, the expertise was fairly spectacular for a automobile of this dimension, even on the track. And from the skin, the G11/G12 7 Sequence was daring, sporty, but luxurious. And even the grilles don’t appear too large by at the moment’s requirements.

The Hidden Prices Behind the Discount

After all, the used luxurious automobile market is affected by cautionary tales, and the BMW 750i is not any exception. Whereas the post-2019 N63TU3 engine is extra refined and dependable than its predecessors, it nonetheless calls for correct upkeep. Oil leaks, coolant points, and carbon buildup stay recognized considerations. And if these issues haven’t been addressed by a earlier proprietor, they will snowball into costly repairs.

The air suspension system, which delivers cloud-like consolation when functioning correctly, is one other potential bother spot. Over time, struts and compressors can fail—particularly in automobiles which have lived in harsher climates. A single air strut can value nicely over $1,500 to switch, and if multiple fails, the restore invoice climbs rapidly.

Then there’s the electronics. Like many fashionable BMWs, the 7 Sequence is full of options—and each single one among them can ultimately go fallacious. Homeowners have reported consolation entry points, infotainment bugs, battery drain issues, and glitchy gesture management. These aren’t catastrophic failures, however they’re a reminder that high-tech comfort usually comes with high-maintenance actuality.

Routine upkeep can be firmly within the “luxurious automobile” class. Oil modifications recurrently value over $250. A full set of tires, particularly the OEM run-flats, can exceed $1,200. Battery replacements, significantly in xDrive fashions with advanced programs, can strategy $600 or extra.

What Actual Homeowners Are Saying

Many present and former house owners of the G12 750i supply glowing evaluations of the driving expertise, however almost all of them ship the identical warning: purchase sensible, or remorse it later. One Bimmerpost person referred to as it one of the best automobile they’ve ever owned, however famous they wouldn’t contact one outdoors of a guaranty. A Redditor who bought their 750i as a Licensed Pre-Owned mannequin mentioned it was flawless—as long as they stayed forward of upkeep. One other YouTube reviewer praised the facility and luxury however admitted the electronics drove them mad after the 60,000-mile mark.

The widespread theme is that the 750i rewards proactive possession. In case you deal with it like a luxurious automobile and plan for long-term care, it would seemingly serve you nicely. However for those who attempt to personal it like a finances commuter? Anticipate the surprising—and anticipate it to be costly.

Good Methods for Consumers

The important thing to purchasing a BMW 750i that gained’t change into a cash pit is all about due diligence. First, keep on with 2019 or newer fashions. Not solely do they profit from the extra dependable model of the N63 engine, however in addition they embody significant tech and design upgrades. And actually, it seems fairly aggressive in design in comparison with the tamer, extra 5 Sequence-like pre-facelifted mannequin. That was one of many most important complaints of that decade: 3, 5 and seven Sequence automobiles look an excessive amount of alike.

Second, service historical past is non-negotiable. You need full documentation of normal oil modifications, coolant flushes, brake servicing, and any main part repairs. If there are gaps within the information or evasive sellers, stroll away. I might additionally ask the dealership to tug the service information to see any points that had been fastened.

Third, prioritize Licensed Pre-Owned automobiles or these with an lively extended warranty. An excellent guarantee can prevent 1000’s if one of many advanced programs fails. However as all the time, analysis the prolonged guarantee plans as a result of they don’t all the time cowl the most costly repairs.

Lastly, all the time put money into a pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist. These inspections are value their weight in gold in the case of recognizing air suspension sag, leaky valve covers, worn bushings, or lingering examine engine codes. I’ve talked about this in a recent podcast with Precision Sport Industries and it’s value a pay attention.

A Excessive-Stakes Gamble Value Taking?

So, is the used BMW 750i a cut price or a cash pit? The reality is, it may be both—relying fully on the way you strategy it. For these prepared to analysis, examine, and finances for maintenance, the 750i delivers a uniquely compelling mixture of efficiency, luxurious, and know-how that few different used automobiles within the $40,000 vary can match. It’s the form of automobile that may nonetheless impress on the valet or on a long-distance freeway cruise.

But it surely’s not a automobile for everybody. It’s not a finances every day driver, and it’s actually not maintenance-free. In that sense, it punishes neglect—however it rewards consideration. Ultimately, the BMW 750i isn’t a cash pit by design. However for those who deal with it like a bargain-bin particular, it’ll rapidly remind you that flagship luxurious by no means comes low-cost.