Unofficialbmw.com

[RickNeilH]

Hi,
I am looking at a fairly nice '98 740i. 90k miles.
I understand there was a differential / drive line recall. Do the dealers maintain a dbase that would show if this car, by VIN, has had that work done?
And is there any other weaknesses in the 98 E38 I should be aware of?

Thanks,
Rick
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Rick and Neil H
1995 525i
1998 740i

[edjack]

The electronics are problematic, probably the most troublesome part of the car, and these things are LOADED with electronics.

The only diff problem of which I'm aware is that, for one months' production, 11/97, the pinion gears were found to be too soft, and the diffs were replaced.

The VIN range was DL53841 to DL54302 (last 7 characters).

If you get no hits on this forum, check in at:

http://bimmer.roadfly.com/bmw/forums/e38/forum.php

If yours is in this range, a replaced diff should be noted on a round sticker on the driver's door jamb. The recall campaign number is 98V-142.
_________________


Ed BMW CCA member since 1987 (Nr. 62319).
'97 540i 6 speed Aspensilber over Aubergine interior.

[RickNeilH]

Thank you,
I was skeptical because of the amount of elec. control but everything works.
I will check the VIN and door jamb if this is in that range.

Do you recall if the diff replacement was at any cost to the owner?

Rick
_________________
Rick and Neil H
1995 525i
1998 740i

[edjack]

I'm sure it was a warranty issue, an obvious manufacturing defect.

BTW, it's a handsome car, and a great road machine.
_________________


Ed BMW CCA member since 1987 (Nr. 62319).
'97 540i 6 speed Aspensilber over Aubergine interior.