BMW 7 Series G12 (2015–2022)
Generation-specific owner insights from 144+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy one?
91
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2015–2022
2
recall campaigns
electrical system
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the G12 7 Series consistently describe it as an exceptionally comfortable, imposing luxury cruiser with a ride quality unmatched by other BMWs.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · low confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequent22-inch wheels with low-profile run-flat tires prone to blowouts and bent wheels on potholes
- RecurrentActive grill shutters
Soft close doors, head up display, leather pulling up from dash, seat buttons all reported as failure points.
- RecurrentCarbon Black paint swirls extremely easily and requires careful hand washing
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedOil in turbo lines around 100k miles (B7 model)
- IsolatedMotor mounts can cost approximately $4,000 to replace
- IsolatedRear sunroof shade not functioning (2021 model)
- IsolatedCracked dashboard screen from airbag deployment found on a used example
The version owners recommend
The 740i with the B58 inline-six engine is the clear consensus pick. Multiple owners explicitly advise avoiding the 750i and its N63 V8, describing the inline-six as "better built" and more reliable. The 740i is also noted as the better financial choice for long-term ownership.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS and BMW 5 Series.
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Overall sentiment
Owners of the G12 7 Series consistently describe it as an exceptionally comfortable, imposing luxury cruiser with a ride quality unmatched by other BMWs. The 740i's B58 inline-six engine is widely praised as reliable, while the 750i's N63 V8 is flagged as problematic. Many owners note that while the car is expensive to maintain and suffers from heavy depreciation, the value on the used market is strong for those willing to accept the costs. The pre-2016 F01 generation is frequently criticized in passing, but G12 owners themselves express genuine satisfaction with the car's presence, comfort, and surprising agility for its size.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the G12 7 Series as a more driver-focused alternative to the S-Class, which is repeatedly described as having a superior interior and technology. The S-Class is seen as the benchmark for luxury, while the 7 Series is viewed as the better-driving option. The Lexus LS is recommended by several owners as a more reliable status symbol. Within BMW's own lineup, owners note the 5 Series offers most of the same tech and better value, while the 3 Series is more fun and cheaper to maintain. The 7 Series is described as a "league above" the 5 Series in seat comfort and features.
Recommended configurations
Owners consistently recommend the 740i over the 750i for reliability and maintenance costs. The 740d diesel is mentioned as a cost-saving alternative. For the 750i, owners strongly advise having a powertrain warranty in place. Regarding wheels, owners with 22-inch rims report frequent blowouts and bent wheels; several recommend downgrading to 20-inch wheels with thicker tires for practicality.
General recommendations
Owners suggest this generation is best suited to buyers who prioritize comfort and presence over running costs and who are prepared for expensive maintenance. The 740i is the recommended model year range of 2016-2019, with the B58 engine noted as reliable. Buyers should be extremely cautious with suspiciously cheap listings, as one owner found a car with evidence of airbag deployment and unbolted rear seats. CPO warranties are highly recommended, particularly for V8 models. Owners also advise checking service history carefully and finding a good independent repair shop, as dealer costs are steep.
Remarks
Owners frequently note that the G12 7 Series is a poor status symbol in cities like Los Angeles where it is common, but still impresses the average person. The car's technology is described as dating quickly, though the 2016 redesign was expected to hold up technologically for 5-6 years. Several owners mention the car feels "enclosed and secure" due to its weight, contributing to its exceptional ride quality. The pre-2016 F01 generation is often referenced negatively in discussions about the G12, with owners noting the G11/G12 was designed to address complaints about weight, handling, and fuel efficiency. Analysis based on approximately 144 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 4 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 5 | 0 | wheels |
| 2020 | 5 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 4 | 0 | power train |
| 2018 | 16 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 24 | 0 | engine |
| 2016 | 25 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 8 | 1 | engine |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2016 · air bags:frontal:sensor/control module-inactivecampaign 16V173000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2016 740Li, 750Li, and 750Lxi vehicles manufactured July 1, 2015, to December 11, 2015. The affected vehicles have an air bag control module that may randomly reset due to an electrical short circuit as a result of residual metallic particles from the manufacturing process.
2015 · exterior lightingcampaign 17V379000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2015 740i, 740Li, 740Lxi, 750i, 750xi, 750Li and 750Lxi and 2014 ActiveHybrid 7 vehicles. The affected vehicles may have received incorrect replacement left rear taillight assemblies. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.