Does the 2003 7 Series have the same issues as 2002?

[andrewn80]

I was reading up on the 7 series and why the early models had so many problems. I was wondering though, does the 2003 model have the same issues as the 2002 model?

I'm in the market for an early year 7 series due to its price but I don't want the issues that come with the 02's.

This forum has bred fear in my eyes for the 2002.

[magastos2]

It is a hit amd miss thing. Just like any manufacturer they do have problems with some of their cars.

[Multani]

Lol, I guess. They both look the same, exactly the same. Maybe minor adjustments..

[BobSC]

Most of the stuff I read, seems to point to the 2002 model being the most problematic and that early 2003 models may have similar problems.

There are plenty of members on this board who have one of these years and can give some better first hand experience.

[KeifR]

All dealerships and shops that I talked to (a lot) when looking for my current 2002 E66 put the 2002 and 2003 years in the same category as each other and none made any distinction in issues between the two years. That being said, you'll find plenty of people cursing these and plenty singing their praises. For what it's worth, I happen to love mine, but I may have just gotten lucky.

That being said, you can typically find a 2004 model for roughly the same price as a 2002 or 2003 if you are patient -- I found plenty a year ago when I was looking.

[Bear]

I have a late-year build 2003 745i. BMW solved most of the early problems with this model by mid 2003. Specifically and most critically I-Drive issues. Most of the 2002 and early 2003 7's have been recalled and retro-fitted with newer I-Drive and software...still makes me a little queezy.

All that being said, I have had BMW's since the late 80's and this is my 3rd 7-series. Best car I have ever owned. 100% reliable. I can't remember the last time it was in the shop other than for routine maintenance under the maintenance warranty.