Is the Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 (2015-2022) reliable in Australia?

This generation is summarized with a trust score of 70 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.

Which Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 configuration should I buy used?

740i (B58 I6 Petrol): Excellent balance of power and efficiency Generally considered one of BMW's most reliable modern engines 730d/740d (B57 I6 Diesel): Strong torque and fuel economy Robust and proven powertrain

Which Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 configurations should I avoid?

750i (N63 V8 Petrol): While improved from earlier iterations, the N63 V8 can still be prone to oil consumption, turbocharger issues, and cooling system problems Higher maintenance costs and complexity compared to I6 engines M760Li (N74 V12 Petrol): Extremely complex and expensive to maintain and repair due to its V12 configuration Higher likelihood of costly component failures over time

What should I inspect on a used Bmw 7 Series model year 2018?

Air suspension component failures (e.g., compressor, airbags, sensors) which can be expensive to repair Advanced electronic system glitches or failures (e.g., iDrive, various sensors, driver assistance systems) Minor oil leaks from gaskets and seals, particularly as the vehicle ages High cost of replacement parts and specialized labor for repairs

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REPORT: BMW > 7 SERIES > MODEL YEAR 2018 (2015-2022)

Used car reliability snapshot for Australia: Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 (2015-2022). Compare recommended configurations, known weak points, and inspection priorities before you buy.

Multiple generations match this year

This model year appears across more than one listed generation. Choose the closest series below to refine context.

Vehicle background from retrieved sources

The G11/G12 generation of the BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan known for its advanced technology, opulent interior, refined ride quality, and strong performance. It introduced significant weight savings through its 'Carbon Core' construction and was available with a wide range of sophisticated powertrains.

Generation / series codes: G11, G12

Body styles: Sedan

Drivetrains: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (xDrive)

Trust score: 70 / 100

Verdict: RECOMMENDED

RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATIONS (THE 'BUY' LIST)

740i (B58 I6 Petrol)
- Excellent balance of power and efficiency
- Generally considered one of BMW's most reliable modern engines
- Smooth and refined operation
730d/740d (B57 I6 Diesel)
- Strong torque and fuel economy
- Robust and proven powertrain
- Long-distance comfort and efficiency

CONFIGURATIONS TO AVOID (THE 'LEMON' LIST)

750i (N63 V8 Petrol)
- While improved from earlier iterations, the N63 V8 can still be prone to oil consumption, turbocharger issues, and cooling system problems
- Higher maintenance costs and complexity compared to I6 engines
M760Li (N74 V12 Petrol)
- Extremely complex and expensive to maintain and repair due to its V12 configuration
- Higher likelihood of costly component failures over time
- Significantly higher running costs

Used car buyer guide (Australia)

Common problems & platform risks

For the Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 (2015-2022), recurring issues often cluster around specific engines, transmissions, and shared chassis electronics. The trust score reflects how often serious powertrain or drivetrain problems show up in real-world reports versus routine maintenance. Always verify with a pre-purchase inspection and service history.

What to inspect before you buy

Use the platform-wide inspection list above for leaks, rust, suspension wear, and electronics. On a test drive, listen for drivetrain noises, check transmission behaviour when hot, and scan for warning lights. In Australia, heat and urban short trips can accelerate wear—factor in climate-appropriate servicing.

Best engine or trim to target

A typical starting point is configurations similar to: 740i (B58 I6 Petrol). Cross-check against the recommended list and your budget; the "sweet spot" often balances fewer reported failures with parts availability.

Configurations to be cautious about

Sources frequently flag higher risk around: 750i (N63 V8 Petrol). That does not mean every car fails—use it as a prioritisation list for inspection and price negotiation.

Ownership cost signals

Higher reported failure rates usually mean more workshop time and parts cost. Before buying, get quotes for common jobs on this generation (timing, fluids, suspension, transmission service) from an independent specialist familiar with the brand.

PLATFORM-WIDE QUIRKS & INSPECTION POINTS (ALL MODELS)

Air suspension component failures (e.g., compressor, airbags, sensors) which can be expensive to repair
Advanced electronic system glitches or failures (e.g., iDrive, various sensors, driver assistance systems)
Minor oil leaks from gaskets and seals, particularly as the vehicle ages
High cost of replacement parts and specialized labor for repairs

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 (2015-2022) reliable in Australia?: This generation is summarized with a trust score of 70 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.
Which Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 configuration should I buy used?: 740i (B58 I6 Petrol): Excellent balance of power and efficiency Generally considered one of BMW's most reliable modern engines 730d/740d (B57 I6 Diesel): Strong torque and fuel economy Robust and proven powertrain
Which Bmw 7 Series model year 2018 configurations should I avoid?: 750i (N63 V8 Petrol): While improved from earlier iterations, the N63 V8 can still be prone to oil consumption, turbocharger issues, and cooling system problems Higher maintenance costs and complexity compared to I6 engines M760Li (N74 V12 Petrol): Extremely complex and expensive to maintain and repair due to its V12 configuration Higher likelihood of costly component failures over time
What should I inspect on a used Bmw 7 Series model year 2018?: Air suspension component failures (e.g., compressor, airbags, sensors) which can be expensive to repair Advanced electronic system glitches or failures (e.g., iDrive, various sensors, driver assistance systems) Minor oil leaks from gaskets and seals, particularly as the vehicle ages High cost of replacement parts and specialized labor for repairs

Sources

No web sources were attached to this report. This usually means grounding was unavailable and the fallback structured generation mode was used.