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2011 BMW 740Li Report

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

Updated Jul 4, 2026·Ethan Miller
2011 BMW 740Li Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2011 BMW 740Li has a high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (161), indicating potential known issues that require thorough inspection.
  • While no recalls or complaints were logged, the TSBs suggest a need for diligent pre-purchase mechanical checks.
  • This luxury sedan offers respectable fuel economy for its class, achieving 20 MPG combined.
  • The rear-wheel-drive configuration and 6-speed automatic transmission are standard for this model.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 BMW 740Li

The 2011 BMW 740Li offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance, powered by a 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. It achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. Despite an absence of recalls and consumer complaints logged with NHTSA, a substantial 161 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest a history of known issues that owners and technicians have addressed. This high TSB count warrants careful consideration for potential buyers, as it may indicate underlying complexities or areas prone to issues that did not rise to the level of a recall or widespread complaint.

Critical Failure Risk

The twin-turbo system on the 740Li can develop issues with wastegates, seals, or the turbo itself, leading to reduced power and potential engine damage.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

0.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing luxury appointments and a comfortable ride over long-term, low-cost ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 BMW 740Li Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 BMW 740Li.

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

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Most Common Issues

1. Turbocharger Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Cooling System Leaks

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 BMW 740Li reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 BMW 740Li is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 BMW 740Li for daily use?▾

EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 BMW 740Li is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Turbocharger System (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1500 • Max: $3000).

What engine is in the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2011 BMW 740Li use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 BMW 740Li, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 740Li require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 BMW 740Li, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 BMW 740Li use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 BMW 740Li, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 BMW 740Li?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 2011 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

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