BMW X7 Problems to Expect

Over the last 18 months I have done a lots of research and have personally experienced some issues with my BMW X7. In this video, I go over the common issues you can expect on BMW G07 X7, symptoms and possible fixes. I also discuss one of the biggest design flaws for those living in hot climates. Is this the luxury SUV built to last? Let's find out.

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[hl]

Finally a review by a real owner who doesn't shy away from detailing problems. This is highly useful to know as I am considered buying one. Thanks!

[peytonf]

I’m glad I saw this video. I have a 2020 bmw x7 40i CBS never shows maintenance items that are supposed to be required. I recently at 65k miles just changed the transfer case fluid and man was it dark like coffee. Made a big difference after changing the fluid

[JAWS]

I totally agree about the AC system. I live in Florida and it underperforms once the outside temperature hits 85 degrees.

[jeffdurling]

I have a 2021 xDrive 40i which is the same platform underneath and a lot of the same components throughout. Have had very few issues but as any car, there have been some. Had the sunroof leack but it was the same thing I have seen on other vehicles. The sunroof itself is fine and they are not known the leak, it's the drain tubes. I have had German, American, Japanese and all have somewhere had the same issue. To avoid I just find a reason to take the vehicle in under warranty and ask them to check them. They do it for free and make sure the drains are cleaned out. No issues with the shark fin leaking. For the transfer case I have had no issues at all. That being said the fluid will be changed along with the diffs and transmission at 50k as a precaution. BMW states these are lifetime, ummm no, and even ZF, who makes the transmission, says to change it at 50k or so. No issues with air suspension and doing research it is not a common problem at al on 2021 and up. Based on older BMW's, once they gets bugs worked out they tend to last many years unlike a certain UK based luxury SUV brand. The steering column mine does that every so often and I figured out the issue. The top piece, under the instrument cluster, is spring loaded to allow it to pivot with the column and keep it in place when it goes in and out. It gets built up dirt underneath. I now include in my interior clean to lift it and wipe underneath. Haven't had the noise since. Brakes have been great but be sure to change the fluid every 2 years regardless of what the computer says. Really a good rule for any car. I don't have soft close doors and have no interest in the feature. I did have the software update issue. My vehicle was stuck with the original software (bought CPO with 20k on it last year) and the dealer had to force the updates to all of the modules to resolve the issue. Other than that the software functionality has been perfect except for CarPlay. I am pretty sure it's my phone because if I forget the BMW and then pair it again, the issue goes away. As for the AC i have not had the issue, even on 90+ days. That being said I tinted all of my windows, including the privacy glass and front window. I used legal 3m Crystaline tint and for the privacy glass, front window, and sunroof, used pretty much a clear tint. Now, even on a hot day, you really have to back off the AC after it gets going because even at 74 degrees it gets too cold. A little expensive but I plan to have the vehicle for a while and the tint and front end clear paint protection, are worth it to me. B58 motor is flat our impressive and so far very reliable. I also have to say, for a BMW, it's amazing to me how DIY serviceable the vehicle is. I have an scan tool so I can set the service modes, etc. and beyond that nearly all of the service, including transmission, diffs, transfer case, oil, and brakes I can do myself in my driveway. You need certain tools for the drivetrain other than oil but if you have them, or access to them, its not hard. Plus you save hundreds, and some cases, well over a thousand dollars for the service. Just keep good records and pictures. One final things regarding the tires. I have the 22" staggered setup and what was siad is spot on. They tend to wear out a little fast and the stock size are really expensive. Plus, with having all-wheel-drive, the tire sizes are required to match or you could mess up the transfer case. Worse, there are very limited choices in tires and nearly all of summer tires so they wear really fast to begin with. Luckily there is a solution. The tires on my X5 to replace with about the only all-season that fits is $3500 which is ridiculous. They will last longer than 15 to 20k but just overpriced. Summer tires are nearly the same price. If you don't mind gaining a little comfort, and not really noticing any difference in handling, then there is an alternative size to use for front an rear. 275/40/22 in the front and 315/35/22 in the rear. Continental DWS 06 comes in the same are around $1600 for a set which is much more reasonable. Plus they have a decently high tread wear so should get around 45 to 50k out of a set.

[Openmindedlife]

I test drove a 2022 bmw X7 M50i and it was so nice! Im hesitating though with the issues after some miles.

[hf]

I had an issue with the sharkfin antenna twice as well. Luckily, the dealer covered it with what they call goodwill, as the car was just a month and 200 miles out of warranty. I just had an issue come up with one of the front control arms. Getting quotes, but it's looking like a $1000 fix. Also, the steering column makes noise when moving but doesn't seem to affect anything. Great video

[wheelSSpinner]

Yes please make that video with the case transfer oil change

[silversooner]

Transfer case fluid swap is easy and inexpensive insurance.

The soft close door is likely the cable becoming disconnected if you can still hear it try. This has happened in my wife's X7 on the drivers door.

[lilcappa]

was about to get a 2019 model oh hell naw

[damianp]

Make the transfer case fluid change video

[feitong]

2020 40i. Got the steering column replaced last year under warranty for the grinding noise. Currently planning to diy the transfer fluid.

[kurtverhoeven]

Wow the X7 really has to go back to the drawing board. Noway I'm paying brand new prices to fix these issues or some. I'm going to have to look at Mercedes or audi. Thanks alot for the video very helpful.

[Eclypsed_yt]

My mom bought a new x7 xdrive40i in 2020 and it now has just over 100k miles with no issues

[carenthusiast]

Thank you so much for the detailed video—it was incredibly helpful. I had hoped BMW would be more reliable with the B58 engine, but this video alone has convinced me to steer clear of BMW.

[remedypeter]

Will BMW EVER produce a reliable vehicle? I'm amazed they have any resale value. Very disappointing because I'd love to own one again, but I'm sick of making a house payment every time they break!

[dmitry.prokorym]

I had some of the issues you mentioned, but not all of them. Still love my X7.

Regarding the steering column grinding noise. I have it as well, and a dealer tried to address it twice by lubricating the telescoping mechanism. It helps at first, but the problem always comes back. And the steering column replacement is very expensive.

[ilshatshamsutdinov]

Thanks for video. I would appreciate if you could make a video on how to change transfer case fluid.

Have one problem so far with my 2020 BMW x7 - Daytime running light broken, passenger outer side - $5500 to replace (only option) if your car over 50k miles.

[bimmerfan]

wow what an awesome video. thanks for the graphics ont he screen makes it much easier to follow

[TommyAngello]

The X5 also has that very same steering column noise. Lubricating it does help but it’s only a temporary solution.

[_colquhoun]

Surprised this spec doesn't have m sport brake package