The 2021 BMW 740Li has 5 recalls, the most serious being two separate fire risks: the starter motor can overheat from electrical overload and ignite nearby material in the engine compartment, and a battery connection issue can generate enough electrical resistance to start a fire as well.
On the drivetrain side, the rear output shafts that deliver power to the rear wheels can break, either cutting drive power while moving or allowing a parked vehicle to roll if the parking brake is not set. The braking system also has a concern: a fault in the hydraulic brake assist can disable anti-lock brakes and reduce the stopping force available to the driver, making it harder to maintain control during an emergency stop. Rounding out the list is a child restraint issue specific to the rear middle seat, where the top tether anchor point for a child seat is not easily accessible. If a caregiver installs a child seat in that position without connecting the top tether, the seat may not restrain a child properly in a crash.
At a glance
What can fail
The starter motor may overheat due to electrical overload after repeated starting attempts.
What the fix does
The engine starter will be replaced at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The rotor and shaft inside the brake system may not be properly welded and could separate during hard braking, causing loss of ABS and braking assistance.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the integrated brake system at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The output shafts that transfer engine power to the rear wheels may break due to a heat treatment error during manufacturing.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the output shaft(s) at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The connection between the 48-volt battery and starter-generator may not be properly assembled, causing increased electrical resistance at the connection points.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the 48-volt battery and starter-generator connection and replace it if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The top tether anchor for child car seats on the rear middle seat may be hard to reach or access.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a cover at the rear middle seat's top tether anchor position to make it accessible.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
