2020 BMW 740i

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

2RecallsNHTSA Verified0ComplaintsLimited Data0InvestigationsLimited Data
Expert Verdict
⚠️Elevated Concerns

The 2020 BMW 740i exhibits concerning reliability due to its two recalls, both of which target critical systems related to safety and the electrical framework. Particularly, the back over prevention system's flaws may compromise rear visibility when reversing, while issues with the starter assembly could prevent the vehicle from starting altogether.

Key Factor:Critical safety concerns

📋Why This Matters

The recalls impacting the 2020 BMW 740i highlight serious defects that have direct implications on user safety and operational reliability. The back over prevention system is especially crucial in preventing accidents by ensuring full visibility when reversing, a fundamental expectation in luxury vehicles that prioritize driver and pedestrian safety. Similarly, an issue with the starter assembly could lead to unexpected failures that leave drivers stranded – a scenario incompatible with BMW's reputation for reliability and engineering excellence in its luxury sedans.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
📊

Expert Analysis

Overall, the safety trend for the BMW 740i shows a less favorable outlook compared to segment expectations. In a market where high-quality engineering is the norm for luxury sedans, these two recalls reflect areas where BMW must reinforce its commitment to reliability and driver assurance.

Critical Component: Various

Safety & Reliability Score

81/100
Very Good

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-16
Complaint Impact-2.75
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2020 BMW 740i

Model Year2020
MakeBMW
Model740i
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Dec19
ISSUEFirst Report
Jan20
NEWProduction
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan24
RECALLRecall Issued
✅

No Consumer Complaints Reported

Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2020 BMW 740i. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

BACK OVER PREVENTIONELECTRICAL SYSTEM

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Back Over Prevention System

Issue: Rearview image obstruction when shifting into reverse may compromise safety.

✅

Ensure all recall work is completed at an authorized service center.

🔍

Inquire about completed recall repairs prior to purchase.

2

Starter Assembly

Issue: Starter motor overheating can prevent vehicle operation after repeated attempts to start.

✅

Monitor starting performance closely and contact a dealer if failures occur.

🔍

'Check for recall completion relating to starter issues during inspection.

💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your BMW dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (2)

Campaign: 21V096000

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

Campaign: 24V576000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

Summary

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.

Consequence

A starter motor that overheats can ignite nearby combustible material in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
✓

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

0 complaints
✓

No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Safety Check: Cross-reference your VIN with official BMW records to ensure no 2 recalls remain open.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in BMW's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific 740i year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.
⚖️

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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.