Market Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking comfort, performance, and advanced technology
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Defining Characteristics:
Long wheelbase, V12 engine (760Li, not 750iL), advanced comfort features, sophisticated chassis dynamics, luxurious interior appointments
Innovation:
For 2001, the 7 Series introduced advanced electronics and driver aids that were cutting-edge for the era.
Primary Coverage:
2001 BMW 750iL (E66 chassis)
Secondary Coverage:
May contain general information applicable to other 2001 BMW 7 Series models (E65 chassis)
Estimated Page Count:
250-350 pages (typical for this model year and content)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Printed (likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, engine management system (DME)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, selector lever positions, transmission fluid information
Chassis:
Suspension system, steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, warning indicators, battery, basic electrical component locations
Body:
Doors, windows, locks, mirrors, seats, interior trim, exterior features
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, automatic climate control features
Infotainment:
Radio operation, CD player, navigation system (if equipped), telephone system (if equipped)
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, ABS, traction control (DSC), park distance control (PDC)
Operation:
Starting the engine, driving controls, parking, interior features operation
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues
Emergency:
Changing a flat tire, jump starting, emergency equipment usage
Depth:
Consumer-focused, providing information on vehicle operation, features, and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Model:
ZF 5HP30
Shifting Modes:
Standard, Sport, Manual (SMG-like functionality on some models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent DEXRON III-H/J)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for total fill
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star (driver), 5-star (passenger) (NHTSA ratings were often model-specific and could vary)
IIHS Side Crash Test:
Good (IIHS ratings were less standardized for this era; specific report data may vary)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Parking Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side airbags, optional curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
User Interface:
iDrive infotainment system (early generation)
Display:
Central color display screen
Audio System:
High-fidelity audio system, often with premium options like Harman Kardon
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with CD-ROM maps
Cruise Control:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) optional on some models
Parking Assist:
Park Distance Control (PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth or analog cellular phone integration (era-appropriate)
Seats:
Electrically adjustable front and rear seats with memory, heating, and optional ventilation
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual/quad zone functionality
Lighting:
Xenon headlights, automatic headlights, ambient interior lighting
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (BMW standard)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (for iridium spark plugs)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial fill is long-life; subsequent changes typically every 4 years or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, viscosity grade 5W-30 or 5W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
E65 Common Issues:
Water pump leaks, radiator leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids, ABS/DSC sensor failures, electronic module issues (e.g., LCM, GM module), ignition coil failures, suspension component wear (e.g., control arms), cooling fan clutch failure, oil pan gasket leaks.
V12 Specific Issues:
More complex V12 engines can have issues with ignition system components (e.g., multiple ignition coils and spark plugs), potential for oil leaks from multiple seals, and more complex maintenance procedures.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles known for driving dynamics and advanced engineering.
E65 E66 Generation:
The E65 (standard wheelbase) and E66 (long wheelbase) generation replaced the E38 7 Series and marked a significant departure in styling and technology, designed by Chris Bangle.
750Il Positioning:
The 'iL' designation signifies the long wheelbase version, offering enhanced rear-seat legroom and comfort.
Production Years:
E65/E66 generation produced from 1998 (for the 1999 model year in some markets) through 2008.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Press Awards:
While specific awards for the 2001 750iL might not be readily available in general databases, the E65/E66 generation was generally recognized for its technological advancements and luxury appointments by automotive publications upon its release.
Reliability Rankings:
For its era, the 7 Series often ranked mid-pack in reliability studies compared to Japanese luxury competitors. Complexity of systems and the V12 engine could contribute to higher maintenance costs.