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E38 Sedan
BMW 7 Series · Sedan · 1994–2001
The 90s flagship — clean design, robust running gear.
Production run
1994–2001
Engines covered
5
Avg. part price
—
19902026
Interactive systems map
Inspect the E38
Tap a hotspot to inspect that system
Systems map
Where it goes wrong
Each numbered hotspot counts the documented failure points in that area. Select one to see the specifics for this chassis and engine.
Failure points by system
Engine3
Cooling2
Intake1
Fuel1
Electrical1
Exhaust1
Documented issues per engine
4M52
5M54
4M62
4M73
4M57
Known weak points
What breaks on the E38
Nikasil bore wear on early high-sulphur-fuel carsDiagnose →VANOS sealsDiagnose →DISA valve failureDiagnose →CCV / oil separatorDiagnose →Timing chain guide failureDiagnose →Valley pan and VANOS sealsDiagnose →Coolant leaksDiagnose →Throttle actuatorsDiagnose →Swirl flap failure (early)Diagnose →EGR cooler leaksDiagnose →
Guides & playbooks
E38 playbooks
Maintenance scheduleGive me a mileage-based maintenance schedule for a BMW 7 Series E38, including the items the factory schedule skips.Buyer's inspectionI'm inspecting a used BMW 7 Series E38. What exactly should I check, test drive and look for underneath?Build planPlan a staged performance build for a BMW 7 Series E38 that stays reliable as a daily driver.Fault code lookupI have a fault code on my BMW 7 Series E38. Walk me through what it means and how to confirm the cause.
Fits your E38
Parts & tools
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