After its introduction in 2018, the BMW X7 become the biggest and most expensive BMW SUV. This car is a true definition of luxury and opulence as it offers a luxurious interior, highly advanced technology, excellent performance, and top-notch safety features.
Despite offering lots of amazing features, this 7-seater from BMW also has some issues that interested buyers should know about. The common BMW X7 problems are issues with the transmission, detached front axle beam, default hydraulic unit of the braking system, problems with the suspension, and much more.
What are the common problems of the BMW X7?
Default hydraulic unit of the braking system
This problem is common on BMW X7 models made between 14 December 2018 and 1 February 2021. The default hydraulic system of the braking unit can lead to limited braking support and increased braking distance. As a result, the ABS system may not be available, which increases the risk of an accident taking place.
Issues with the transmission
The BMW X7 has transmission issues. This is not a result of the car overheating or lack of fluids, but because of the BMW construction error. It has been confirmed that some BMW X7 models come with an additional bolt in the starter motor that can fall into the transmission and lead to several problems.
Improperly bolted steering spindle
This issue can only be found on the 2020 BMW X7. Some users have noted that the steering spindle may have been improperly bolted and could become detached. This is dangerous as the steering control may be lost and increase the chances of an accident taking place.
Problems with the car’s electrical system
Most BMWs have issues with the electrical system. Surprisingly, the BMW X7 also has some electrical problems, which is kind of disappointing considering its quality and price. Some of the electrical problems include a weak passenger side power window module and a malfunctioning backup camera.
Besides, the remote car app stopped working in some BMW X7 models.
Detached front axle beam
This is another problem found on the 2020 BMW X7. However, it is only limited to the 2020 BMW X7s made between 29 May and 27 October 2020. Because of the defective welding, the push bars on the front axle beam can become detached, causing an accident as the wheel might lose control.
Issues with the vehicle structure
Sold at such a high price, the BMW X7 shouldn’t have structural problems. Nonetheless, that’s not the case as several users have reported car structural problems. One user reported their panoramic sunroof shattered, while another reported rear reflex reflectors don’t produce enough reflection, which can lower on-road visibility.
Problems with the suspension
Another common problem that BMW X7 users are facing is issues with suspension. Many users have reported that the suspension is slow and will turn back to any level that the modes tell them to. Besides, some X7 models feature steering rack pinion teeth that can break under a heavy load.
This is very dangerous and if it happens, the driver may lose control of the car and cause an accident.
Steering and brakes become less responsive while driving at 70 mph
Some 2020 BMW X7 users have also noted that the steering and braking become less responsive when driving at 70 mph. Aside from that, the dashboard illuminates several warning signs and the brakes become very weak. This is dangerous as it can also lead to an accident.
FAQ
Which model year of the BMW X7 should you avoid?
Since its introduction in 2018, BMW has produced a new BMW X7 model, every year. However, among the few models that BMW has produced, the 2020 BMW X7 is the least reliable. This model year has had several recalls and complaints. Nonetheless, it is still an excellent car as long as the issues are tackled.
Which model year of the BMW X7 is the most reliable?
BMW X7 may still be new to the market, but it has released enough models to know which one is reliable and which one is not. While the 2020 BMW X7 is the least reliable BMW model, the 2022 BMW X7 is the most reliable model. According to J.D. Power, it has a predicted reliability score of 91 out of 100.
Is it expensive to maintain the BMW X7?
No, the BMW X7 is expensive to maintain. This is because it comes equipped with lots of the latest technologies that can develop issues easily. What’s more, this large SUV is made up of high-end materials and features that cost a lot to replace. And with the high cost of BMW’s service, it is very costly to maintain it.
Is the BMW X7 reliable?
BMW X7 is among the least reliable SUVs on the market. According to cars.unews.com, BMW X7 has a reliability score of 83 out of 100. This is quite lower considering other cars like the Mercedes-Benz GLS have a higher score. This is mainly because of the costly repairs and high-end technology that the car comes with.
After how many miles does the BMW X7 start to develop problems?
You may start to experience issues with your BMW X7 after 80,000 miles. Since the BMW X7 has been on the market for less than 7 years, it is quite difficult to answer this question precisely. Nonetheless, this is the period that most BMW SUVs start to experience problems and the X7 shouldn’t be an exception.
Conclusion
Before you invest in the luxurious and powerful BMW X7 SUV, it is crucial to know some of the issues that you will come across as the car ages. Some of the common issues that BMW X7 users have reported are the default hydraulic unit of the braking system, detached front axle beam, problems with the suspension, and much more.
Like all cars, proper maintenance and care of the BMW X7 will reduce the chances of most of these issues happening. However, it is also vital to know if the used BMW X7 model you desire to buy was recalled and the original owner amended the issues. Overall, the BMW X7 is one of the best luxurious SUVs on the market.