1996 BMW 740IL problems

Filed Mar 5, 2014 · Engine, Fuel system · 133,000 miles · FL

The gas tank started to make popping noises and thumping sounds. Then when I realized something is wrong when the gas gauge started reading 1/4 tank when it was empty, strangely when I was filling up with gas the cap was hard to remove and as soon as I removed the cap air was rushing in. I ran out of gas on the interstate without any warning managed to get the car on the shoulder. Later on the way to work I started smelling a strong gas odor I assumed it was the cars surrounding me. When I went on my lunch break my coworkers informed me that there was a large puddle of gas under my car, when I got back to work I started to investigate what happened and my tank was imploded and developed leaks around the seams. I find this a major concern since this is right next to a hot exhaust system and may cause a fire due to poor gas tank ventilation. I'm lucky that my car didn't catch on fire due to the amount of gas I lost and noticed leaking on the seams that are extremely close to the exhaust.

Filed Jul 24, 2008 · Acceleration · 179,000 miles · WV

Anytime you are accelerating the throttle cable will either get stuck or if you let off the gas pedal its will continue to accelerate. This can be very dangerous especially upon entering the highway. This occurred pretty regularly until we had the throttle cable replaced.

Filed May 14, 2008 · Engine · 203,000 miles · NY

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 bmw 740il. While parking the vehicle, the contact attempted to shut off the engine and exit the vehicle. As she turned the key and removed it from the ignition, the engine remained running and would not shut off. She had to remove the engine fuses from under the hood and disconnect the battery in order to shut off the engine. Afterwards, the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a mechanic. The mechanic installed a new cylinder and housing. Three weeks after the repairs, the failure recurred and the vehicle was towed back to the dealer, who is not taking any responsibility for the defect. The vehicle is currently still at the dealer. The failure and current mileages were 203,000.

Filed Mar 30, 2005 · Acceleration · 86,312 miles · IL

Vehicle is experiencing sudden acceleration. As soon as the vehicle is started, the RPM's will rev up to 3500 rpms preventing the driver from putting the vehicle in gear without a possible crash. Driver would apply the brakes but the vehicle will continue to surge. Provide further detail. Defective parts replaced. Car went by itself to 90 MPH on the interstate. Replaced front throttle body gasket and idle speed regulator. *bf

Filed Apr 29, 2002 · Engine · GA · 1 injury

This problem w/ radiator is very common w/ this vehicle and manufacturer refuses any responsibility.

Filed Oct 10, 2001 · Fuel system · PA

No summary listed for above vehicle.

Filed Aug 22, 2001 · Fuel system · OH

Gas tank imploded sucking itself in and causing gas to leak and spill. Tank was replaced in september of 2000. However, problem has been ongoing since then. Also, there are popping noises coming from tank area, which means that gas in tank is not properly venting,causing a build up. Technicians have heard the noise, but are unable to rectify it when it's not doing it.

Filed Dec 19, 2000 · Locks · NY

Hood came crashing up against windshield while driving on freeeway. This could have caused a crash dealer found that the safety hold down pin on the left side hood lock was missing, dealer replaced the hood lock assembly. *ak

Filed Dec 19, 2000 · Locks · NY

Hood came smashing into windshield frame, blocking visibility of highway.

Filed Mar 16, 2000 · Brakes · MD

Brake warning light switch failed, allowing the switch to remain in the brake light off position or in the brake light on position. Also, when turning vehicle off, the warning brake light comes on.