2005 BMW 7 Series Reliability Data: Problems & Recalls
No verdict The 2005 BMW 7 Series has a complaint index of 43 with 4 complaints and 1 recall, ranking 5th worst among 8 model years. It sits well below the higher-risk 2008 and 2009 years, which carry complaint indexes of 86 and 100.
Based on NHTSA complaints per model-year, not a reliability rating. Methodology
YearToAvoid Scorecard
- Complaint Index
- 43/100
- #5 of 8 7 Series years
- Verdict
- No verdict
- vs. other years of this model
- Complaints
- 4
- unique NHTSA reports
- Recalls
- 1
- distinct NHTSA campaigns
- Crashes
- 1
- reported in complaints
- Fires
- 0
- Injuries
- 0
- Top issue
- Brakes
Top 2005 BMW 7 Series problems
Share of this year’s NHTSA complaints by component group. Groups with 15+ complaints have their own page.
- Brakes2 (50%)
- Engine2 (50%)
- Airbags1 (25%)
- Fuel System1 (25%)
- Transmission & Powertrain1 (25%)
A complaint can list more than one component, so shares add up to more than 100%. Shares are % of complaints.
What owners report
- Owners describe power brake loss caused by a leaking vacuum pump check valve, sometimes leading to a crash.
- Some drivers report the check engine light coming on due to intake valves on the auxiliary pump leaking oil into the manifold, causing visible smoke and emissions failures.
- Owners describe the fuel pump failing, followed by the car jerking, losing power, and shutting off while merging onto a highway.
- Some owners report door tags and the comfort access system draining the battery, along with airbag warning lights and a fuel line leak appearing together.
2005 BMW 7 Series recalls
1 NHTSA recall campaign list this model year.
- NHTSA 10V446000Oct 1, 2010Brakes198,352 vehicles
Service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum
Bmw is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 5-series, 6-series, and model year 2002-2008 7-series vehicles. A check valve of the brake vacuum pump may leak a small amount of lubricating oil. Over time this could result in contamination of the brake booster.
Risk: Power assist braking performance could be adversely affected. In extreme cases there could be a complete loss of power assist braking. An unexpected reduction or loss in power braking assist may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Bmw will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on november 24, 2010. Owners may contact bmw at 1-800-525-7417.
2005 compared with other 7 Series years
Frequently asked questions
- Is the 2005 BMW 7 Series reliable?
- NHTSA lists 4 complaints and 1 recall for the 2005 BMW 7 Series, giving it a complaint index of 43. That ranks 5th worst out of 8 model years covered, meaning several other years report more owner complaints relative to this one.
- What problems does the 2005 BMW 7 Series have?
- Owners most often reported brake issues, tied to a recall for a leaking vacuum pump check valve, and engine problems involving oil leaking into the intake manifold. Brakes and engine complaints each account for half of the reports on file.
- Does the 2005 BMW 7 Series have any recalls?
- Yes, NHTSA lists one recall covering the brake vacuum pump check valve, which could leak lubricating oil and reduce braking power over time.
- What year BMW 7 Series should I avoid?
- Among the years with data, 2008 and 2009 are rated Avoid, with complaint indexes of 86 and 100. The 2005 model year is not rated as high-risk by comparison.