CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. BMW›
  4. 740i›
  5. 2020

2020 BMW 740i Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 4, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 BMW 740i boasts a good overall reliability rating, bolstered by a lack of reported owner complaints.
  • A critical recall concerning engine control module software and potential starter motor overheating demands verification of repair completion.
  • Another recall addresses rearview camera software and hardware, impacting rear visibility; ensure this is resolved.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 BMW 740i

The 2020 BMW 740i offers a blend of executive comfort and dynamic capability, wrapped in a sophisticated package. For the used car shopper, this model represents a significant step down in price from new, providing access to premium features and a refined driving experience. However, its luxury status means potential buyers should be prepared for the realities of maintaining a high-end German sedan. While owner complaints are notably absent in the data, a handful of significant recalls, including one critical issue related to the engine control module and starter motor overheating, warrant careful attention and inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall addresses potential starter motor overheating due to electrical overload, which can lead to a vehicle non-start or fire risk. This is primarily a software issue managed by the Engine Control Module (ECM).

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a comfortable and technologically advanced luxury sedan at a depreciated price.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford potential premium repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 BMW 740i Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 BMW 740i.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
24

CarFocal account required

See the full 2020 BMW 740i buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Starter Motor Overheating

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Rearview Camera Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 BMW 740i reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 BMW 740i is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2020 BMW 740i for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 BMW 740i is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 BMW 740i?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Starter Motor (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2020 BMW 740i use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 BMW 740i, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2020 740i require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 BMW 740i?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 BMW 740i, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 BMW 740i, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2020 BMW 740i use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 BMW 740i, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 BMW 740i?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 2020 Audi A8.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.