1998 BMW 7 Series: common problems and reliability
67 owner complaints on record.
Most complaints are about engine and engine cooling. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 1998 7 Series?The 1998 BMW 7 Series has 67 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and engine cooling and electrical system.
Safety record for the 1998 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 1998 BMW 7 Series vehicles (US, public record).
Is 1998 a good year for the 7 Series?
Across the 30 7 Series model years we track, complaint volume runs from 4 (2022) to 317 (2006). With 67 complaints, the 1998 7 Series sits above the model's median of 35.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 1998 7 Series
steering:linkages:drag:link:connection
Campaign 10E021000FCP GROTON IS RECALLING CERTAIN STEERING CENTER DRAG LINKS, P/N 32 21 1 096 057, SOLD FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 9, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL YEAR 1995 THROUGH 2001 BMW 740I, 740IL, AND 750IL PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SHAFT OF THE STEERING CENTER TIE ROD MAY SHEAR OFF.
power train:driveline:differential unit
Campaign 98V142000VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE DIFFERENTIAL PINION SHAFT WITHIN THE DIFFERENTIAL CASE ASSEMBLY WAS PRODUCED WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE SURFACE HARDENING. THIS CAN RESULT IN THE SHAFT EXPERIENCING PREMATURE WEAR.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and ownership phase.
Owner insights cover all generations of the 7 Series. See the full 7 Series owner picture and every model year.
Other 7 Series model years
Compare every 7 Series year side by side to see how 1998 ranks against the rest.
Compare the 7 Series against its rivals
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