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Plan d’maintenance BMW 7 Series Long (E38)
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📖BMW 7 Series Long E38: timeless long-wheelbase executive saloon demanding cooling system and gearbox discipline

BMW 7 Series Long (E38) (1995-1998)

Introduced in 1995, the long-wheelbase BMW 7 Series Long E38 (iL) extended the wheelbase by 14 cm, transforming Paul Bracq and Boyke Boyer's sleek saloon into a majestic head-of-state limousine. Offering immense rear legroom, rear footrests and optional double glazing, it remains celebrated as one of the most handsome BMWs ever built. Keeping this classic limousine roadworthy requires meticulous BMW 7 Series maintenance, particularly regarding thermal management and transmission longevity.

The pre-facelift engine lineup offered the smooth M52B28 straight-six (728iL), the quad-cam M60 and early non-VANOS M62 V8s (730iL, 740iL) and the silky 5.4-litre M73 V12 (750iL). Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic gearbox. The chassis features aluminium front suspension arms and self-levelling rear suspension (EDC/LAD), while the fragile plastic cooling system components require vigilant oversight.

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Owner notes

The reassuring points, known weak spots and deadlines you should not let slip.

Reassuring points

Reliability
  • Regal proportions, timeless styling and superior high-speed stability on the extended wheelbase.
  • The 728iL M52 and 740iL M62 provide enduring reliability when cooling components are proactively refreshed.
  • Exceptional analogue build quality, plush rear seating comfort and quiet cabin ambience.

Chronic weak spots

Keep an eye on
  • Cooling system: inspect plastic radiator necks, expansion tank, thermostat housing and water pump for brittleness.
  • M60 and M62 V8 engines: check for valve cover oil leaks, intake manifold PCV diaphragm failure and timing chain guide noise.
  • 750iL M73 V12: inspect dual throttle bodies, distributor caps, dual batteries and wiring harness condition.
  • Five-speed automatic gearbox: verify smooth cold-to-hot shifting and check for torque converter clutch shudder.
  • Self-levelling rear suspension and front arms: inspect hydraulic lines, accumulators and thrust arm hydro-bushes.

Critical deadlines

Do not miss
  • Cooling system overhaul: replace radiator, water pump, thermostat and expansion tank every 80,000 km or 6 years.
  • Engine oil renewal: perform every 10,000 km or annually using premium synthetic oil meeting BMW specifications.
  • Automatic gearbox fluid service: renew transmission fluid and pan filter every 60,000 to 80,000 km.
  • Brake fluid replacement: flush hydraulic fluid every 24 months to protect ABS valves and brake calipers.

Fréquences d'maintenance recommandées

Service markers for petrol/diesel versions. Exact intervals vary by engine and model year.

Oil change

Every 15 000 km

Every 1 year

Service

Every 15 000 km

Every 1 year

Brake pads

Every 30 000 to 40 000 km

Every 2 years

Poids ou puissance élevés : usure des number platettes accélérée sur certaines versions

Timing belt / chain

Timing chain - designed to last, no scheduled replacement

Battery (12 V)

Every 50 000 km

Every 4 years

Powertrains and average consumption

Average consumption from manufacturer data for the versions available in this generation.

Petrol and diesel powertrains
▾

Petrol, diesel or LPG versions. The intervals shown cover the usual mechanical jobs.

Série 7 Long (E38)

Estimated average budget

Premium cost

Servicing a BMW 7 Series Long (E38) sits about 56% above the market average (premium positioning).

Simple oil change~185 €
Full service~495 €
Front brake pads~235 €
Timing-belt kit~945 €
Tyres (set of 4)~400 €

Price shown for belt-driven engines; some versions use a chain (no due date).

* Indicative estimates for parts and labour.

Frequently asked questions about BMW 7 Series Long (E38)

What are the common problems on the 7 Series Long (E38)?▾
7 Series Long (E38) owners should especially watch: Cooling system: inspect plastic radiator necks, expansion tank, thermostat housing and water pump for brittleness. M60 and M62 V8 engines: check for valve cover oil leaks, intake manifold PCV diaphragm failure and timing chain guide noise. Garajo includes these watch points so you can act early.
Does the 7 Series Long (E38) timing chain need to be replaced?▾
The 7 Series Long (E38) engine uses a timing chain designed to last the life of the engine, with no scheduled replacement. Listening for noise during a service is enough.
Where can I find the service book for the BMW 7 Series Long (E38)?▾
Garajo offers a free digital service book, always up to date, with reminders and a detailed history for your BMW 7 Series Long (E38).
How much does it cost to service a BMW 7 Series Long (E38)?▾
The service budget for a BMW 7 Series Long (E38) sits about 56% above the market average (premium positioning). Allow about 495 € for a full service, for example. Garajo estimates your budget by powertrain and tracks what you actually spend, for free.
Which BMW 7 Series Long (E38) powertrain is best for town use?▾
This model is only available as petrol/diesel. Fuel mix: 3 petrol versions. In town, prefer the most economical, well-serviced petrol/diesel version.
Which BMW 7 Series Long (E38) powertrain should you choose if you mostly drive on the motorway?▾
This model is only available as petrol/diesel. Fuel mix: 3 petrol versions. On the motorway, prefer petrol/diesel versions with the best power-to-consumption compromise.

Compatible engine oil

Which engine oil for BMW 7 Series Long (E38)?

These links are limited to the engines of this generation when oil data is available.

Unsure between two viscosities?5W-30 vs 5W-405W-40 vs 10W-405W-40 vs 0W-40
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