"Is the 7 Serisi 730ld reliable, and what should you check?"
When buying a used BMW 7 Series 730ld 2009 (F01/F02), the most frequently mentioned issue is carbon buildup in the EGR and intake manifold. Additionally, the swirl flaps in the intake manifold are also commonly reported.
Engine: N57
N57D30A · 730ld · Used in this car from 2009-2015
Known engine issues
Swirl flapsCompared to the M57 diesel, the intake manifold flap system has been improved and they can no longer fall off and drop directly into the cylinders. However, they still get dirty and stick, so the intake needs cleaning every 100,000 km.
Timing chain stretchThe timing chains in this engine are quite durable and only stretch after 200,000 km, but their replacement is very complex and expensive because they are located on the flywheel side. Also, chain breaks occasionally occur due to tensioner failure.
Crankshaft damper pulleyAs in many diesel engines, a crankshaft damper pulley is used here, which is very expensive and often fails at 100,000–150,000 km. With pulley failure, the load on the crankshaft increases and it may crack.
+1 more issues on the engine detail page
Known issues and risks
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
Carbon buildup in EGR and intake manifold
Often reported
In the N57 engine, carbon and oily deposits can accumulate in the EGR valve and intake ports, impairing airflow and combustion. This buildup can cause intake manifold flaps to stick, EGR faults, and loss of engine response.
Engine Bay
Swirl flaps in the intake manifold
Often reported
The 3.0 diesel engine (N57) in the 730d can experience issues with the swirl flaps in the intake manifold. Carbon deposits and oil vapors can cause them to stick, malfunction, or break.
Engine Internal
Timing chain wear / chain noise
Often reported
In the N57 engine, as mileage increases, the timing chain or tensioner may wear, with a metallic rattling noise reported from the rear of the engine when cold.
Timing chain
Clogged Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
Often reported
In the 3.0 diesel engine of the 730d, the DPF tends to clog if the vehicle is mostly used in city driving or short trips that do not allow full regeneration. This leads to frequent forced regenerations, warning lights, power loss, and sometimes the need to replace the filter.
Exhaust Emissions
BMW 7 Serisi 730ld technical specs
BMW 7 Serisi 730ld (2009): boot 500 L; fuel use 6,9 l/100 km (urban 9,1 l/100 km · extra-urban 5,6 l/100 km); 0–100 in 7.3 s.
Boot capacity
500 L
Fuel consumption
6,9 l/100 km (urban 9,1 l/100 km · extra-urban 5,6 l/100 km)
What should I look for when buying a BMW 7 Series 730ld?+
When buying a 2009 730ld, check the service history, perform a test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. The most commonly reported issues are: carbon buildup in the EGR and intake manifold; swirl flaps in the intake manifold; timing chain wear/chain noise.
What are the common problems of the BMW 7 Series 730ld?+
The most frequently reported issues are: carbon buildup in the EGR and intake manifold; swirl flaps in the intake manifold; timing chain wear/chain noise.
Is the BMW 7 Series 730ld reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it's best to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 4 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from Difetti fault database records; the source vehicle and target vehicle are verified for brand, fuel type, engine, and generation compatibility. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.