What Do You Love About the BMW 7 Series E38?

General Discussion
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The BMW 7 Series E38 has become a classic in the automotive world, and for good reason. Its blend of luxury, performance, and timeless design makes it a favorite among enthusiasts. Here are some aspects worth discussing:

Specifications and Features

  • Engine Options: The E38 was offered with various engines, from the smooth 2.8L inline-6 to the powerful 4.4L V8.
  • Comfort and Tech: With options like heated seats, high-quality leather interiors, and advanced (for its time) audio systems, the E38 was a benchmark for luxury.

Common Issues

While the E38 is a fantastic car, it’s not without its quirks. Owners often discuss:

  • Electrical Problems: Issues with windows and central locking sometimes arise due to aging components.
  • Suspension Concerns: The air suspension can require maintenance or replacement over time.

Modifications and Accessories

Many E38 fans love to upgrade their rides. Have you considered:

  • Aftermarket Multimedia Systems: Enhance your driving experience with modern features.
  • Performance Enhancements: What upgrades do you recommend for better handling or power?

E38 in Gaming

It’s interesting to see the E38’s presence in car games like Forza. It’s a blast to drive in-game, and it shows how far it’s come since its production days.

Let’s hear your thoughts on the BMW E38! What do you love or dislike about it? Any tips for potential buyers or current owners?

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I absolutely love the E38 for its classic styling and luxury. To keep it in top shape, I recommend adhering to the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual. Regular oil changes are crucial!

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I completely agree! I’ve found that changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles significantly improves performance. Anyone else have tips?

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One common issue I’ve noticed is the wear on the control arms. Keeping an eye on them can save you a lot of headaches later on. Did anyone experience this?

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Definitely! I’ve also had success with preventive measures like regularly checking the coolant levels to avoid overheating.

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Routine checks can make a world of difference! Has anyone tried using synthetic oil? I’ve heard it helps with engine wear over time.

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I switched to synthetic oil a year ago, and my engine feels smoother than ever! Totally worth it for the E38. Plus, it lasts longer too!

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On a lighter note, I always joke that working on my E38 feels like a science experiment. The more I learn, the more tools I accumulate! Anyone else feel this way?

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Haha, yes! I think I have a full toolbox just for my E38! The investment is worth it to keep this beauty running.

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As for common issues, the air suspension can be problematic. Keeping a close eye on it can prevent a big headache. Have any of you replaced your suspension components?

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I had to replace mine last year, but the ride quality is unbeatable now. Invest in good parts and it’s worth it for long-term comfort!

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Absolutely! Investing in high-quality parts is crucial for reliability. Anyone using aftermarket parts? I’d love to know your experiences.

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I’ve had mixed results with aftermarket parts. Sometimes they fit great, and other times it feels like a puzzle piece that doesn’t belong! Anyone else?

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I’ve also found that keeping the battery terminals clean helps a lot with electrical issues! Just a little maintenance goes a long way.

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Totally agree with you, andrew16! Cleaning those terminals might sound minor, but it seriously improves the electrical system. Great tip!

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Looking back, I wish I had started a maintenance log for my E38. It would have helped track service intervals and issues. Any recommendations on apps or methods?

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I absolutely love the E38’s smooth ride, but if you want a performance boost, consider a custom ECU tune. It can really unlock more power from the M62 engine!

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That’s a great suggestion! Pairing that with a good set of aftermarket headers could really enhance both performance and sound.

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Suspension upgrades like coilovers can drastically improve handling. A firm setup allows for better cornering and overall road feel.

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Agreed! I’ve also added sway bars to my E38, and the difference is phenomenal. It feels so much more planted now.

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