BMW 7 Series 65 body. BMW E65 car: description, specifications, features and reviews. Restyle and dorestyle

The history of the fourth generation BMW 7-Series luxury sedan (model index E65) goes back to 1997, when the chief designer of the Bavarian automaker (at that time) Chris Bangle met with the designers from DesignworksUSA. The car itself appeared before the public in the fall of 2001 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and a few months later its sales started. An extended version of the BMW 7-series sedan with the E66 index made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2002. In 2005, the Bavarian went through an update, after which it stayed on the assembly line for another three years. The total circulation of the fourth generation model was more than 330 thousand copies.

If we compare the BMW 7 E65 with its predecessors, then the appearance of the flagship has undergone drastic changes that fans of the brand received with criticism. At the same time, we can say with confidence that the "fourth seven" looks solid and stylish, its relief forms are diluted with sportiness. Despite the design change, the car has retained its "family" features - this is a rather aggressive "look" of the head lighting technology and the "nostrils" of the radiator grille.

The silhouette of the car is perceived as stylish and harmonious, and all thanks to the verified proportions and large wheel rims... The rear end stands out for its massive proportions and tail lights that extend over the trunk lid.

The length of the fourth-generation BMW 7 ranges from 5040 to 5180 mm, the height is from 1480 to 1490 mm, and the wheelbase is from 2990 to 3130 mm. The width does not depend on the version - 190 mm. The curb weight of the car varies from 1810 to 2185 kg, depending on the version.

The interior of the BMW 7 E65 looks stylish and attractive, the ergonomics of the interior space is at a high level, and everything is made of natural and high-quality materials. Dashboard it is highly informative, in addition to the speedometer and tachometer, there are a couple of additional displays. The center console looks massive, on top of it there is a place for the color display of the iDrive multimedia information complex. There are no more displays on the dashboard - only the minimum number of buttons responsible for the main functions.

The front seats of the BMW 7-Series boast a comfortable layout, pronounced side support and a lot of electrical adjustments. And the stock of space is more than enough in all directions.
The rear sofa of a sedan with a standard base offers comfortable seating for two passengers - the third will be superfluous, as evidenced by the too high transmission tunnel. If there is a lot of space above the head and in the shoulders, then it may not seem enough in the knees. No, the legs do not rest on the backs of the front seats, but you expect more from a car of this class. The long wheelbase version of the BMW 7 E66 is a different matter, where the first row of seats is located at such a distance that you can easily stretch your legs.

The luggage compartment of the 4th generation sedan is spacious - 500 liters. However, its shape is not entirely successful - the opening is narrow and deep, so the transportation of some large-sized items will be difficult. There is a separate tool compartment in the boot lid.

Specifications. For the fourth generation BMW 7 Series, a wide range of engines was offered, a total of eight. But they all work with a 6-band "automatic", and the torque is transmitted exclusively to rear wheels.
Two eight-cylinder units were specially developed for the fourth generation "seven". The first is a 3.6-liter engine producing 272 "horses", the second is a 4.4-liter engine that produces 333 horsepower. Several more engines were proposed for the car with a working volume of 3.0 to 6.0 liters with a capacity of 231 to 445 forces.
The Bavarian flagship was not without diesel units. The sedan was equipped with 3.0 and 4.4 liter turbodiesels, the output of which is 218 and 258 "horses", respectively.
This power range gave the 7 Series excellent dynamics - even with the weakest engine, the car conquers the 100 km / h mark in just 8.1 seconds, and with the most powerful one - in 5.5 seconds. The maximum capabilities reach 237-250 km / h.

The suspension arrangement of the BMW 7 E65 is classic for cars of this brand. It is a fully independent suspension with two arms at the front and four arms at the rear, adjustable shock absorbers and active anti-roll bars. Ventilated disc brakes can be seen on all wheels.

The "seven" had several more factory modifications, which were not as common as the first two:

• The armored version of the BMW High Security 7-Series is designated E67 and features B7 security. Such a car is equipped with an automatic fire extinguishing system, fresh air supply technology, oxygen supply for being under water, and much more.
• The "hydrogen hybrid" BMW Hydrogen 7, indexed E68, was released in a circulation of 100 copies.

Equipment and prices. On secondary market Russia can buy a BMW 7-Series E65 / E66 in 2014 at a price of 700,000 to 1,500,000 rubles, depending on the modification, configuration, year of manufacture and condition. At the same time, even the simplest sedan of the seventh series will be equipped with everything you need - climate control, airbags in front and on the sides, bi-xenon head optics, power accessories, standard "music" and an immobilizer.

Before starting the description of the standard "sores" of BMW 7 series cars, or rather the E65, it is worth plunging into history. And it began in 2001 with the debut of the car, the design of which turned all the ideas about the executive class of that time from the German company. The car stood out not only in design, but also in technical innovations. However, this promises not only positive, but also negative emotions from the possession of a supported "seven"

Back in 2001, there was a strict division between fans of different brands. That is, a car lover from Audi rarely stared at car models from other manufacturers. But the release of the BMW 7 Series shook the established position and was able not only to attract buyers from a number of fans of other brands, but also to lose a significant share of its adherents. It turned out that a radical change in the corporate approach to design and technical equipment cars may not be pleasant to many, and those who expected to see classic car BMW - disappointed.

The car, released in an era of change, changed the idea of ​​BMW cars. The German manufacturer has established itself as a car manufacturer for drivers. And the appearance of the flagship sedan, which was designed primarily for the comfort of passengers, surprised many. Therefore, in the segment of cars for drivers, the primacy passed to the Audi A8 of that time. But the E65 still managed to surprise the world community with its technical equipment.

In the model line of the flagship series, there were not only regular sedans, but also versions with a wheelbase extended by 140 mm, which made it possible to achieve higher comfort for rear passengers. By 2006, the line of "sevens" could boast of eleven different modifications, which were completed with motors with a working volume of three to six liters, and developed power from 240 to 450 Horse power.

It is worth noting that the versions with an extended base were equipped with additional tools that increase comfort. For example: two passenger seats in the back row with increased comfort were installed in the car, they had many adjustments in different ranges, electric heating, ventilation, an additional climate control panel, a mini-refrigerator and a flat-screen multimedia system. Air suspension was added on the rear axle with automatic clearance adjustment, allowing for a smoother ride.

The package bundle of the flagship car could not be “budgetary”. Therefore, it is said that she can be rich or very rich. But there were significant differences between the trim levels offered on the European and domestic markets. If the domestic versions were offered in "standardized" trim levels, then the European consumer could independently choose the necessary options for their car.

External and internal finishing

As always, the paintwork of BVM cars does not cause any complaints, and can live for many years with proper care. But the "seven" still has some drawbacks in the body. For example, after several years of operation, due to technical salts and other chemical elements, chrome elements begin to peel off. Also, over time, automatic door closers may fail (which will lead to the replacement of locks, the hood lock may also fail and paint may peel off the sills inside the cabin. In addition, due to an incorrectly adjusted wiper on the driver's side, scratches may appear on the windshield ...

As for the trunk, which has 508 liters of volume, then there are no complaints about it, except for the possibility of transforming the rear seats, or rather the lack of such an opportunity. The only thing that saves is a small hatch, which will help to transport narrow but long objects.

Inside the "seven" has changed even more than outside. There is practically nothing left of the previous generations, except for the "propeller" on the steering wheel.

Moving on to the interior in more detail, we can mention that premium models of any manufacturer have always been equipped with numerous comfort and safety systems. But BMW engineers exceeded all expectations, and "stuffed" the E65 with an unimaginable amount of electronics by the standards of the time.

But here, too, there is a small minus in so many electronics. Like any electronic device, and even more innovative, in this car can "shut down" anything, from electronic seat adjustment to a light in the trunk. That is, over time, everything where there is at least one electrical connector may malfunction.

We must pay tribute to the quality of all devices, because only some of the problems arise due to poor design or ill-considered use in a car. Most of the malfunctions are associated with difficult operating conditions in our conditions (which are only severe winters and large temperature differences in spring and autumn). In addition, the human factor plays an important role in malfunctions, especially owners who are not experienced in all the varieties of complex systems of a new car.

For example, although the instructions forbid watching the built-in TV or listening to music with the engine turned off, few people have read it and few have thought about the consequences. But the "seven" is a car with its own character, and a completely discharged battery due to watching TV led to an interesting malfunction: the airbag health sensor began to fail, and it was impossible to eliminate the error without visiting the technical station.

After some time of operation, problems began with the front electric windows, which began to creak desperately and "cry" for help. In this case, you have to endure or pay for replacement (they cannot be restored).

The drive for opening and closing the boot lid may fail. At the same time, the problem arises in two cases: with a malfunction of the electronic control unit, and with a failure of the hydraulic cylinder.

Another frequent and surprising breakdown is the failure of the audio system. At the same time, breakdowns may vary, but they all relate to sound amplifiers, which are located not only inside the radio, but also under the trim in the trunk.

In addition, the abundance of electronics in all elements of the cabin leads to unexpected malfunctions due to frequent dry cleaning or simply dampness inside the car. Also, the cause of malfunctions can be a leakage of hydraulic cushions inside the seat pumping unit.

Another incomprehensible move of the company's engineers was the limit on reprogramming the control units responsible for everything in this car. Moreover, the updated software came out with enviable regularity, and there are times when a flashing is inevitable. For example, one of the control units has failed in the car, when replaced with a new one containing an already updated version of the firmware, the rest require a software update. At the same time, several of them are quietly updating, and some do not accept the new program due to the exhaustion of the update limit. As a result, it is necessary to replace completely serviceable blocks with new ones.

And at the end of the question about the electronics of the prestigious "seven", you can warn current owners or future ones about unwanted interference. That is, it is not advisable to install your own audio system or alarm system. Because of this, unforeseen consequences and "glitches" of all electronic systems in the car can begin.

Possible engine problems

Its useful to note. That cars from BMW have always been distinguished by a wide range power units offering customers a choice for every taste, wallet and power. That's why. You could always choose a cheaper option and a relaxed driving style, or by paying an additional amount to become the "king of the road".

But at all stages of car production, German manufacturer distinguished by innovative developments in engine systems internal combustion... In addition to increased power and torque, or the ability to handle higher loads, this has led to unexpected failures and costly repairs, compounded by stringent quality requirements. car oil and fuel. Therefore, when owning a BMW car, it is always worth having in stock a rather large amount of money for unforeseen repairs.

The basic equipment of the BMW 730 was distinguished not only by the weakest engine in the series and the lowest price. But also a six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 3 liters. Which is capable of developing up to 230 horsepower. In operation, the engine has proven itself to be reliable and not surprising. The current situation did not allow this modification to become popular; among the clients of the premium sedan, it was considered not prestigious to own a car of the cheapest configuration. Therefore, modifications are more widespread in the middle price segment.

The most popular models were the BMW 735, equipped with a 3.6-liter engine and developing up to 272 horsepower, as well as the BMW 745, equipped with a 4.4-liter engine with a maximum output of 333 horsepower. The first option became popular due to the fact that the car was offered for a little more than a BMW 730, but with a V-shaped engine with eight cylinders. And the second option is the most logical maximum in terms of logic and economy. Over the entire existence of the model, both power units have shown themselves to be quite reliable, except for the first versions released in 2001, which had increased piston group wear.

As for the maximum configuration - BMW 760, equipped with a powerful engine with a displacement of 6 liters and twelve cylinders, which is capable of developing up to 445 horsepower, it has not become popular in the secondary market, and its cost is comparable to the BMW 745. The fact is that The top version of the car is very expensive to maintain, and most of the consumers of the secondary market do not want to purchase an unprofitable car in advance (but there are also those amateurs who want to have everything “top”, regardless of the possible costs).

And yet, from a general description of the modifications and their power units, let's move on to specific "sores" that are inevitable in any cars and engines. All engines use 95 or 98 gasoline. But to extend the work of the original platinum candles (capable of working up to 40,000 km), it is better to use a high-quality AI-98.

Like fuel, motors require the use of only high-quality oils, preferably from the Long-Life series. Only in this case, you can expect long-term operation of the engine and the ability to trust the readings of the on-board computer about the oil change period. Nevertheless, although the computer will show an interval within 15,000 - 24,000 km, many experts recommend replacing at least 15,000 km.

One of the best qualities of German engines is the use of chains that do not require replacement as a drive for the gas distribution mechanism. But numerous attachments requires the use of two belts and numerous rollers, which it is desirable to change at a time, on which you have to spend a rather large sum of money.

BMW 730

The smallest engine in the BMW 7 Series family is considered very reliable, and the only malfunction that the owner may encounter is the failure of the ignition coils (they can also fail on other units of the line). BMW made the replacement of all coils, on promotional terms, with modified ones.

BMW 735, 745

Unfortunately, the motors of these models are not as reliable as the previous ones. Especially cars produced in 2001. The first engines had the same problems with the electric drives of the variable valve timing system, which led to an increased load on the piston group. Already by 100,000 km of run, the motors of the first cars required overhaul... Therefore, when choosing a used car, you should avoid cars of this model produced in 2001.

Compared to the first versions, cars have become more reliable since 2002. But still, the valve cover gaskets periodically leak, and there are cases of failure of the exhaust gas recirculation valve, failure of the ignition coils and the generator.

BMW 760

The motor of the top model is also reliable, but it is undesirable for it to drive through traffic jams or at low revs. In this regard, carbon deposits may form on the intake valves, which will lead to the need to replace all 24 pieces. Therefore, the engine must be allowed to run under maximum load at regular intervals. It is worth noting that acceleration to maximum speeds not necessary. For preventive measures, it is necessary to switch to manual transmission control mode and drive the engine at high speeds.

It should be noted that there are no special problems with the operation of the top-end motor. Of the permanent faults, the same problems can be noted as with previous units, except for problems with the valve cover and generator gasket. But the general maintenance of the motor is an order of magnitude more expensive than other representatives in this line.

Concerning diesel engines, then there are no special problems with them. Especially after the introduction of technology with the use of an all-aluminum engine block and the commissioning of piezoelectric fuel injection and a particulate filter, all engines began to comply with the Euro-4 environmental standard. The only caveat is the requirement to use high-quality fuel.

BMW 7 Series transmission

Not without innovations in the transmission of the new BMW 7 Series (E65). All modifications of the line used the same automatic transmission for six gears, which does not require changing the transmission oil throughout the entire service life. Which made it the first of its kind in the world.

Also, the company has not been without innovations in the field of transmission ergonomics. The new principle of placing the gearbox selector lever near the steering column made it easier to operate, and there was no need to remove your hands from the steering wheel to switch modes. And to switch to parking mode, a convenient button at the end of the lever was used. But it is worth noting that such an arrangement of the control lever led to bad consequences for strangers with this car. Mistaking the gear selector for a wiper mode switch, some drivers have managed to break it off.

Surprisingly, the first-of-its-kind six-speed automatic transmission has only two drawbacks. The first of which is the risk of breakage when driving on a cold box. It is worth clarifying that this does not apply to accurate driving, if you start abruptly from a place on a cold transmission, you may experience jerks when switching between the first and second stage. If you pay attention to this in time, then there is a chance to correct the situation by changing the oil (with a strictly recommended type), otherwise, you will have to completely change the transmission. The second disadvantage is the leak from under the pan gasket, but it can only be solved by changing it completely.

In addition, the engineers introduced a new principle for using the parking brake. The car completely lacks the classic elements of the parking brake, instead, to the left of the steering wheel there is a special button that turns on the handbrake mode. At the same time, it automatically turns off when you start driving.

It's worth noting that the company has come up with an interesting approach to using the handbrake for safety and redundancy. brake system... If you press the handbrake button while driving, the car will automatically stop using the readings from the ABS sensors.

Another function of the parking brake is automatic activation when the car stops. This function is configured in the proprietary electronics control menu - iDrive. In this mode, at any stop, the car independently activates the parking brake and disengages it when starting to move. This allows you not to worry about the car rolling in neutral in all conditions. Even at traffic lights or in traffic jams, there is no need to constantly keep your foot on the brake pedal. Also, this function makes it much easier to start driving downhill by not allowing the car to roll back before starting to move.

Hodovka BMW 7 Series

It is worth noting that although the driving performance has changed towards comfort, taking away some of the sensations from the classic sports sensations of BMW cars, nevertheless, dynamics and extreme are enough for any driver.

But there is an excellent feature of the entire E65 line - it is a good quality of all elements of the "walker". Here it is worth paying tribute to the company's engineers, they did not support the general trends, according to which, more and more often, executive class cars are equipped with weak parts that quickly fail.

In this car, most often you have to deal with the replacement of steering rods, ball joints and rear suspension arms, but these are the consequences of the large weight of the car, and not bad parts.

Still, although the quality of the suspension is not in doubt, in the aftermarket it is better to choose a car with a conventional suspension. The fact is that the cars are equipped with the "Dynamic Drive" suspension, which is distinguished by the presence of adjustable shock absorbers and active stabilizers. lateral stability... This does not mean that shock absorbers often break, but the costs of possible repairs will be significantly higher. But stabilizers can fail at any time. Usually the front stabilizers break - they begin to leak, and the rear ones remain intact, but the tubes begin to leak. And everything would not be bad if the on-board computer did not fix errors. Because of this, you will have to change the entire set of stabilizers and the control unit.

There are also some "nuances" in the steering mechanism. The lower cardan of the steering shaft wears out quite quickly, it wears out already at around 50,000 km. A steering rack knocks from the conveyor itself, but the knock does not affect anything and remains the same throughout the entire period of operation, but masks the same symptoms from the cardan. The rest of the steering components last a long time, and rarely need to pay attention to them even after 100,000 kilometers.

Output

The problem with all used cars is the cost of maintenance. After all, buying a car from hands, the future car owner wants to save money. Although the price becomes significantly cheaper over time, the cost of repairs and maintenance does not decrease.

The above becomes even more relevant in the context of premium vehicles like the E65. Despite the fact that now there is an opportunity to visit quality stations Maintenance besides the official ones. On which the repair will be made of no less high quality - the cost of high-quality spare parts will not change downward.

How profitable it is to buy a premium car in the secondary market depends on many factors, but most of all on the initial condition of the car.

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BMW E65 7 Series the fourth generation of luxury sedans, which was unveiled at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and launched in Europe on November 17, 2001.

This model became a replacement for and was produced until September 2008. The development of the car began in early 1996 and was completed in mid-2001, the exterior of the car was created by chief designer Chris Bangle.

In the fourth generation of the 7 series for the first time special versions the bodies were designated with a separate code: the extended version -, the armored version had an internal number - and the hydrogen version was designated as -.

Specifications

Engines and modifications

For the first time, the 735i and 745i with a V-engine were launched on the market.

In March 2002, an extended version of the E66 (140 mm longer than the base version) was presented at the Geneva Motor Show - the 735Li and 745Li with the same engines as the 735i and 745i.

In September 2002, production began on a diesel version with a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine and a V-shaped 3.9-liter turbo-diesel engine capacity. Diesel option the extended 740 model was not available.

In January 2003, the most powerful version was presented - and with a 6.0-liter V-shaped engine.

In the same year, in February, an armored model was presented, and in March, production of the 730i started with the new Sport Package.

In October, cars began to be equipped with adaptive headlights, an IDrive system with two additional buttons, a Bluetooth connection with mobile phone, screen with extended functionality and automatic climate control with fogging sensor.

	Motor	Volume, cubic meters cm	Power, h.p.	Torque, Nm
730i / Li	N52B30	2979 2996	231 258	300 300
735i / Li	N62B36	3600	272	360
740i / Li	N62B40	4000	306	390
745i / Li	N62B44	4398	333	450
750i / Li	N62B48	4799	367	490
760i / Li	N73B60	5972	445	600
730d / Ld	M57TUD30 M57TU2D30	2993 2993	218 231	500 520
740d	M67D39	3901	258	600
745d	M67D44	4423	329	750

Dimensions (edit)

Restyling

In April 2005, the 7 series lineup was updated. The sedan has become more refined and sporty. New engine options were presented for the 730Li - 3.0-liter

Test drive BMW E65 from Vladimir Potanin

Videos of BMW E66 / E67 7 Series

BMW in the back of E65 / E66 was released in 2001 and produced until 2008. The model impresses with the quality of the finish, the combination of dynamics and controllability and the progressiveness of the equipment. However, not everyone can afford to maintain a 15-year-old "premium". Let's see what the owners are complaining about. And why do they still choose E65 / E66.

The background of the model is simple: the well-deserved E38 retired, and its place was taken by the "hippo". So called for a sharply different design of the E65 ordinary people. The massive design was criticized by critics and praised by buyers - in a couple of years the car overtook its predecessors in sales. Well, the list of equipment was amazing: iDrive multimedia system, automatic "handbrake", adaptive suspension, turning headlights, engine start with a button, the first 6-speed "automatic" ZF and even before a bunch of options and chips like a door closer or loading maps into the navigator from DVDs.

There is no need to even talk about comfort and convenience, as well as about the quality of finishing of this "seven". Well, the Dynamic Drive system raised the car's handling to such a level that the BMW E65 became the best driver's sedan in the F class, beating both the 220th and the Audi S8.

Main complaints from owners associated with electronics glitches (and there are many of them) and, in particular, with the operation of the multimedia system. The bulk of iDrive issues were resolved by the manufacturer in the early years of the model's release, but the complex design of the system requires not only constant updating, but also intervention in the filling.

With motors, the situation is as follows - at first, the E65 was equipped with reliable series of the legendary M54, M57 and good N62 units. But after restyling, they were replaced with new and not so reliable engines of the N52 and N62 families.

The ZF 6HP26 series box contains several major drawbacks. We wrote about them in detail.

Body and interior

The body of the E65 is durable, well painted by the manufacturer. Many elements are made of aluminum. The owners do not notice serious corrosion on this model - rather, it will be a sign of poor recovery from an accident. Deserved "age" corrosion should be looked for on the rear arches and in places where plastic parts are attached to the bottom.

It is also important to choose the E65 with original elements underbody kit and sills - plastic parts are easily lost, are expensive and are directly related to comfortable noise insulation in the cabin.

The salon is filled with such high-quality materials that the "crumpled" interiors will be a sign of a company car.

Electronics

What can be said about electronic system E65? Very difficult. Multiplex data buses, many controllers and control units ... Almost everything is electronically controlled in the machine. Shock absorbers, active anti-roll bars, active steering- all this is looked after by a whole group of sensors and control units, which is also included in the iDrive kit. This is a potential problem for owners.

The electrician herself is made with high quality, but the wiring on the engine shield, the power contacts and the generator loaded to the eyeballs are becoming a frequent problem.

Software failures of numerous blocks directly make a hole in the owners' budget, and not every specialist will undertake to troubleshoot. The pre-styling versions of the E65 are especially prone to breakdowns.

The leader in terms of the number of complaints about electronics is, of course, the Dynamic Drive active suspension control system. Often, the hydraulic shock absorber of the boot lid, starters and batteries fail. Owners also complain about a malfunction in the steering column, which is expressed in the failure of electrical adjustments.

Engines

• On the 730i / Li version, gasoline engines of the M54 family were initially installed, after restyling in 2005 they were replaced by the 3.0-liter N52 (231 and 258 hp, respectively).
• Versions 735i / Li and 740i / Li received V-shaped in-line "eights" of the N62 family, with a capacity of 272 hp. and 306 hp. Forced up to 333 and 367 "horses", depending on the version, the same "eights" N62 were put on 745i / Li and 750i / Li.
• The top-end gasoline engine, the N73 with a volume of 6.0 liters and a capacity of 445 hp, received a modification of the 760i / Li.
• Diesel versions of the "seven" with a volume of 3.0 liters, 730d / Ld, were equipped with the legendary M57TU, with a capacity of 218 to 231, depending on the year of manufacture.
• Versions 740d and 745d received units of the M67 family, with a capacity of 258 and 329 hp. respectively.

Inline “six” of the M series, regardless of the type of fuel, are the most successful engines of the Bavarians in principle. Gasoline M54s were installed on the BMW E65 until 2005, diesel M57 - until the end of the model's production. After restyling, the engines of the M54 family were replaced with new ones from the N52 series, which was rather a disadvantage. The tendency of the latter to coke piston rings and to other problems has reduced their resource. At the same time, the expected increase in power did not occur.

Gasoline V-shaped "eights" N62 set the entire production period of the model, and all the time the owners complained about the coking of this engine, even with scrupulous service at a dealer with original consumables. But in general, the design of the motor allows you to get a good resource.

True, for this you will have to take serious care of the N62: change a good oil every 8-10 thousand km, not save on consumables and reprogram the engine control unit in order to change the thermostat operation to a "colder" mode.

As for the V12 engines of the N73 series, they perfectly pull a heavy car, and their resource is clearly higher than that of other engines of the N family. But the complex design with vanos and direct injection significantly increases the cost of their maintenance.

A stone in the garden of diesel M57 can be thrown only in terms of fragile piezo injectors. But if you do not drive with an empty tank and refuel with normal fuel, these motors are traditionally considered the most successful in terms of thrust and reliability.

The problem of the diesel V8 of the M67 series is perhaps the delicate fuel equipment and the EGR valve, which must be promptly repaired (changed) at the first sign of a malfunction.

Transmission

A mechanical box for this "seven" was not provided in principle.

The classic 6-speed automatic ZF 6HP26 cannot be called reliable. The wear of the torque converter lock-up linings, bushings and the valve body of the mechatronics - all these troubles await the owners who do not observe the oil change interval and like to drive. The box is maintainable, but the costs cannot be called small.

It is logical that the resource of the box is higher on versions with in-line petrol "sixes" and below - on the V12. The owners go to some tricks to extend the life of the "machine". For example, they install additional radiators and change the gaskets of the plastic pallet of the automatic transmission with each oil change.

Suspension and steering

BMW E65 received a traditional solution for the Bavarian concern: McPherson front and multi-link rear suspension. In general, the unpretentious design is distinguished by high prices for original parts especially for EDC racks.

Suspension arms run on average 30-70 thousand km without major repairs, depending on operating conditions. For owners of versions with Dynamic Drive, replacing the active anti-roll bar costs a penny and you have to pay dearly for the pleasure.

Most expensive in rear suspension- pneumatics, not the cylinders themselves, but pneumatic drives and a control unit. Therefore, connoisseurs try to avoid versions with air suspension.

Steering with the Servotronic system is fraught with the unpredictability of the life of the rail - on some cars it starts knocking after 30 thousand km, but sometimes it even goes over 300 thousand. It is difficult to sort it out; replacement is required.

The resource of steering rods and tips with careful operation can really double and even triple, compared with an average value of 30 thousand km.

Some owners are fond of high-speed maneuvers and quickly wear out the brake pads, which is not surprising given such a mass of the car and the capabilities of its dynamics. Deformed discs are common and are associated, among other things, with the passage of puddles.

Hub bearings are quite reliable. Even in versions with V12 and in combination with low-profile tires, they go 30-40 thousand km.

Total

If you decide to buy a BMW E65 / 66, consider the cost of owning such a car. For supporting good condition this sedan will require investments, and considerable - and this is if you do not have to restore it after the previous owners. A lot of components, a complex design with a bunch of sensors and expensive spare parts - all this will hurt your pocket. But the pleasure of driving such a "premium" is guaranteed to you.

To minimize risks, choose options with in-line gasoline "sixes" and a reliable diesel M57. But it is better to refrain from buying top-end versions with V8, V12.

Don't miss other reviews of popular BMW models:

• BMW E39 - read
• BMW E46 - read
• BMW E60 - read
• BMW E90 - read

For $ 10,000 you can buy different cars... For example, a completely new interior, but poorly equipped, with a weak engine and not very good driving performance... Or a well-equipped, dynamic, but used - say, a luxury Bavarian sedan with an 8-cylinder 367-horsepower gasoline engine and a rich set of functions.

I already hear from you exclamations that such things cannot be compared. It's like apples and bricks, and operating a powerful premium sedan is ruinous. Yes, it is possible, but not necessary. It all depends on what kind of car you buy and what kind of history it has. If you are interested in a luxury sedan with a "big" gasoline engine, you probably do not belong to the categories: "I want the cheapest one you have," and "And if you take the floor mats and spare tire, will you give me a discount?"

A premium sedan with an 8-cylinder engine is something special. There will be no such cars in the near future. But before you dare to "break the piggy bank", find out what awaits you.

BMW presented its next "seven" of the E65 series (E66 - an extended version with the L prefix) in 2001. The body and interior design of the BMW 7 immediately caused a storm of indignation. The ever-conservative model has taken on very bold forms thanks to Chris Bangle. It took too long for everyone to get used to them. Some customers are said to have abandoned BMW in favor of Mercedes and Audi. After restyling in 2005, the "limousine" began to look much softer, but the characteristic proportions remained. In terms of comfort and practicality, there was not much criticism. Inside, the car is huge, especially in the elongated version, and it rides very well.

Often, the plastic glazing of the headlights is covered with a fine mesh of scratches.

Equipment

Those interested in premium segment sedans expect a luxurious "dowry", but, as practice shows, this does not always happen. For example, in copies from Europe, the equipment is sometimes so meager (within the class) that there is not even seat heating. Things like a night vision system, an adaptive chassis or luxurious seats with ventilation and massage are non-standard and are found in high-end versions, such as the BMW 760Li. But in the case of luxury used cars, less electronics means fewer potential problems in the future.

However, automatic climate control, power seats, cruise control and an on-board computer are standard equipment on the base.

The interior design of the BMW 7 takes some time to adapt. The various functions are controlled via the first generation iDrive system. She is very annoying with incredibly slow reactions and a lack of logic in management.

However, in general, the ergonomics are not bad and you can get used to it. The driver's seat has a wide range of different adjustments, allowing you to find the optimal driving position.

The scuffs on the side bolsters of the chair are not surprising.

On the run

The huge sedan is as easy to drive as any other car. Perhaps, only confused by the large efforts on the steering wheel, unusual for sedans. But you will be surprised by the superb response at high speeds.

This does not mean that the BMW e65 behaves like sport car... Despite the good balance, the body in sharp turns, in the absence of active stabilizers, heels heavily, and the rear wheels lose reliable grip, especially in winter conditions. In addition, there is significant understeer at the entrance, and oversteer at the exit, especially if you act a little roughly. BMW 7 is not suitable for dynamic driving. It feels best on high-speed highways with smooth road curves.

Door locks require regular maintenance - lubrication.

The eight-cylinder 4.8-liter engine has more than enough power headroom for fast overtaking. The driver has 367 hp. at 6300 rpm and 490 Nm of torque at 3400 rpm. The N62B48 is linked to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission. The thrust increase is linear, without diesel surges.

The engine sounds stronger on the outside than on the inside. Unlike modern premium cars, this "seven" does not hide the growth of speed. And this is a fact. Let aerodynamic noise not penetrate into the cabin, but the hum is clearly audible big wheels with rain tires.

Speaking of wheels, it should be admitted that it is better to install tires with the maximum profile. Serial Runflats are more practical to replace with regular ones - with soft sides. Owners of BMW 7s with Runflat report more frequent air leaks, as well as an unpleasant shake-up on the road, as the heavy tires do not filter bumps well.

The suspension, though tight, is comfortable. It guarantees the classic compromise between comfort and agility that they are renowned for. BMW cars starting from the last "millennium". However, check the condition of the suspension carefully. In "sevens" components of the front axle wear out rather quickly. It is also necessary to check the status of the automatic rear height control system.

Better to keep an eye on vehicles without sophisticated Dynamic Drive active stabilizers. The advantage of conventional suspension is inexpensive spare parts that are not much different in price from similar components. Volkswagen passat or Opel Insignia. Some of them are even cheaper.

It is true that most consumable parts, like brakes, are inexpensive, but the price tag for the service is heartbreaking. Especially if you contact an official dealer of the brand for help.

BMW 7 series E65 and E66 is a car that requires qualified service. Advantage: comparative simplicity of engines and good accessibility to all vital components. Classic rear-wheel drive concept reduces the risk of costly repairs cardan shaft which all modern BMWs with xDrive suffer from. The rear differential is virtually immortal, because the car is practically not included in the "drift". And in order to limit the intervention of the non-disconnected stabilization system, you need to make your way through the complex iDrive menu. Believe me, few will want to do this, perhaps the most desperate.

Engines

One of the common engines is the 5-liter N62B48. The engine is reliable in principle, but loves fresh and high-quality oil. Even if you do not plan to drive several tens of thousands of kilometers a year, but only 8-10 thousand kilometers or less, be sure to change the oil at least once a year. Trouble can only be caused by the variable valve timing system, but diagnostics and an experienced mechanic will tell you about problems with it. They will also help you deal with the on-board computer and reset all error messages.

The engine requires inspection for oil leaks from under the block head and valve cover. Most often, N62B44, installed in the BMW 745i before restyling, is noticed "behind this". This problem is less common in the BMW 750i after the update. The new engine, in contrast to the 4.4-liter unit, is equipped with an additional oil cooler, which helps to keep the lubricant temperature at a normal level. But it is around it that leaks can occur, especially if it has not been replaced after a small "poke" in the front bumper.

The 3-liter gasoline unit of the M54 series has proven itself well. It has an electronic choke, an aluminum block with cast iron sleeves and variable valve timing on both camshafts... The only serious problem is the crankcase ventilation system valve clogged with sludge. For preventive purposes, mechanics recommend updating it every 2-3 oil changes. The successor to the N52 series has garnered far less positive reviews.

The inline six-cylinder 3-liter turbodiesel was intended for the 730d version. The engine mechanics are very reliable and the operating costs are relatively reasonable. Real expense fuel fits into 9 liters.

8-cylinder turbodiesels 740d and 745d require more high costs for operation and maintenance than gasoline G8s.

During inspection, pay attention to the condition drive belt water pump, generator and air conditioner. Also check if the radiator fan turns on and if the radiator is leaking.

The motor chain is reliable. The noise of a still cold engine is an acceptable phenomenon, but after warming up the engine, it should disappear. If this does not happen, then the chain tensioner may be faulty. Extraneous noise can also come from faulty plastic flaps in the intake manifold.

Transmission

The biggest sticking point in the BMW 7 is the ZF automatic transmission. They say that BMW literally burns it. But in fact, the reason lies in the maintenance of the box. The manufacturer claims that the working volume of the oil is sufficient for "lifetime" use. Probably, you can imagine what will remain there after 200,000 km traveled on one oil - solid "scrap metal". Some mechanics recommend changing the lubricant every six years or 100,000 km. For your peace of mind, it is better to carry out this procedure immediately after purchase. Thanks to this, the machine will last much longer, but you must understand that it is not immortal. Some BMWs had problems with the box before reaching the 100,000 km mark. And this is a bad sign!

During a test drive of the BMW 7, notice how it shifts down one or two gears. Some boxes do not want to downshift, while others change speeds with jerks. You can even hear a metallic bang, as if someone drove into you from behind. When shifting up, there should also be no rough jolts. However, slight jerking when shifting down in manual mode is perfectly acceptable.

Undercarriage

The BMW 7 is very sensitive to the condition of the chassis. Therefore, regular wheel balancing and geometry correction is necessary. Also, pay attention to brake wear, as many do not worry about the condition of these items before selling. The prices for these components are not sky-high, and any service can handle replacement.

Suspension components are simple and durable, but not limitless. Active Dynamic Drive stabilizers are quite expensive. If you get a car without them, you will be less worried in the future.

Typical problems and malfunctions

BMW 7 German engineers literally riddled with electronics. Problems appear when vital systems cease to function. According to statistics, the share of electricians in the general list of faults is 35%. The most capricious was the iDrive system, which in the first cars (before restyling) often hung, especially at temperatures below zero.

Indicator lights are a nightmare for BMW owners. The system reported a malfunction of the parking sensors.

To a lesser extent, there are problems with the radio and CD changer. Sometimes the audio cable is damaged. When inspecting the car, turn on the radio, and in the settings menu, change the balance - forward-backward, left-right. This will tell you if all the speakers are playing.

Also, sometimes the trunk does not want to open, and the automatic headlight range control system fails. Pay attention to the correct functioning of the electronic parking brake and central locking.

Sometimes the air conditioner makes you nervous. Sometimes there is simply not enough cold air, in other cases it refuses to redistribute the flows.

Do not forget to check the operation of all comfort systems before buying, including air conditioning and seats. Pay attention to the ventilation holes. Air guides often break - not controlled.

Conclusion

Don't worry too much about the future of the BMW 7 if you've checked it thoroughly. These cars are bought primarily for the soul. Therefore, as a rule, motorists are mentally prepared for expensive breakdowns and have a small amount of money in stock - just in case. But the amount must be significant. After all, for just one repair of the box you can be asked for almost $ 3,000. It is necessary to come to terms with high fuel consumption - 12-14 l / 100 km. Do not think that you can save money on the operation of such a car. Most likely, the most you can handle is changing the oil and filters. Remember, the BMW 7 loves an attentive and generous owner.

The main thing!

• 1. Rely on clean history and service transparency.
• 2. Have the vehicle checked with an experienced mechanic.
• 3. Test the vehicle thoroughly during a test drive.
• 4. The automatic transmission should run smoothly without jerking.
• 5. Pay attention to the absence of drifts, balance of the suspension and wheels.
• 6. Check if the electrical equipment is functioning properly.