2003 BMW 745LI Engine Problems
- Complaints
- 3about this part
- Share
- 6%of 50 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 143,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the engine of the 2003 BMW 745LI, 6% of the 50 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 143,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Terrible transmission in this car!!!while driving, this car jumps into gear. Feels like someone hit me from behind whenever I stop. It also started leaking transmission fluid. After researching this car, I have found out the 745LI models are known for transmission problems,and leaks. This car should have a recall on it,because apparently Bmw knows this,and has done nothing about it. They should make consumers aware they have ongoing problems with the transmissions. I went to drop car off for repair,and there were 4 other 745LI's needing same repair. …”
NHTSA complaint #10470881, filed 2012-08, 143,000 miles“The contact owns a 2003 Bmw 745LI. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled and the engine warning light illuminated. The contact also mentioned that the chime sounded throughout the vehicle. The vehicle was able to restart on the second attempt. After restarting, the vehicle vibrated and stalled. The failure occurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10616384, filed 2014-07, 160,000 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10151068Feb 1, 2016This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B07 03 14 dated October 2015. Diagnosing Stored Fault Codes to Help Avoid Repeat Repair Visits. Fault codes stored in vehicles…
- 10147598Jan 1, 2015"SUBJECT N62TU: ISTA Service Function for DME ""RAM Backup"". The ISTA Service Function test plan should be performed to clear stored values in the DME RAM memory after repairs…
Engine: other model years
Other parts of the 2003 BMW 745LI
11 complaintsBrakes
10 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
8 complaintsElectrical system
7 complaintsEngine cooling
5 complaintsFuel system
5 complaintsVehicle speed control
5 complaintsTires
4 complaintsEquipment
3 complaintsSeat belts
3 complaintsBody and structure
3 complaintsSuspension
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2003 BMW 745LI
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology