Buy BMW 750Li Starter Motors

The starter motor-also called a starter, engine starter, crank motor, or starting motor-spins the 750Li's V‑8 fast enough for fuel and spark to take over and keep the engine running. Most factory units deliver roughly 1.7 kW and use a 9‑tooth pinion gear to mesh with the flywheel  (Great Brands Direct). On earlier N62‑powered 750Li sedans (2006-2008) the starter hides deep in the "valley" under the intake manifold, while later N63‑powered models mount it low on the transmission bell‑housing for easier access  (YouTube, YouTube). When the part wears out you may hear a click, grind, or nothing at all even though lights work-classic signs shared by techs and owners online  (Reddit, Lifewire). Average repair bills hover near US $1,000, split about 55 % parts and 45 % labor, because many hours of disassembly are needed  (YourMechanic). BMW has also recalled recent 7‑Series cars to add software that prevents repeated cranking from overheating the starter, underscoring the role of proper operation and updates  (Automotive Dive, Kbb.com).

A starter motor is a small but powerful electric engine that draws up to 300 amps and turns the flywheel around 200 rpm-just enough for combustion to begin  (YouTube, YourMechanic). Inside, a solenoid pushes the pinion gear outward, locks it into the flywheel ring gear, and retracts once the engine fires so the gear is not over‑sped. Because of its high current draw, it is always wired with thick cables and protected by a relay.

• 2006-2008 E66 750Li (N62B48 V‑8): Starter sits centered in the engine "V" beneath the intake manifold-removal means lifting the manifold and moving coolant lines  (YouTube, Bimmerfest).
• 2009-2015 F02 750Li (N63 twin‑turbo V‑8): Unit bolts to the transmission housing on the right side; serviceable from below after removing splash shields  (YouTube).
• 2016-2025 G12 mild‑hybrid models: A conventional starter is still present as a backup to the 48‑volt belt‑starter‑generator.

Always match the 12‑volt rating, power output (≈1.6-1.7 kW), clocking, and tooth count when choosing a replacement  (motorcityreman.com).

• Slow cranking followed by rapid clicking.
• Bright headlights but engine will not turn-battery may run lights but lacks peak current for the crank motor  (Lifewire).
• Single loud click with no crank (solenoid engages but armature won't spin)  (Reddit).
• Occasional grinding noise indicating pinion‑tooth or flywheel‑ring wear  (YourMechanic).
• Burning smell or smoke after repeated start attempts-stop immediately to avoid heat damage  (Automotive Dive).

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1. Disconnect battery ground-essential before touching high‑amp cables.
2. Lift vehicle safely; remove splash shields (F02/G12) or intake manifold (E66).
3. Label then unplug solenoid wire and main power cable.
4. Remove the two mounting bolts; note any shims.
5. Fit new starter, torque bolts to spec, attach cables, and apply dielectric grease.
6. Clear fault codes and, if applicable, perform starter adaptation with a scan tool.
   A skilled technician with proper tools can finish in 2-4 hours, but first‑timers should plan a full day  (JustAnswer, YourMechanic).

• Parts: Quality rebuilt or new units range widely; pricing trends show roughly US $500-$550 for the motor alone on luxury sedans like the 750Li .
• Labor: Extra intake or exhaust removal on early models drives labor to US $450 on average .
• Extras: New manifold gaskets, mounting bolts, and coolant may add another US $100.

Keep battery posts tight and clean, because low voltage accelerates brush wear  (Lifewire). Avoid holding the key or start button longer than 5 seconds; let the motor cool 30 seconds before retrying to prevent overheating (BMW's latest software update enforces this automatically)  (Automotive Dive).

A 2024 recall covers about 105,000 BMWs, including some 7‑Series, for starters that can overheat after repeated cranking; dealers install updated software at no charge (, Kbb.com). Owners can check their VIN on BMW's safety‑recall portal  (BMW USA). No fires or injuries have been reported so far, but timely action is urged.

• Battery: Supplies high current; weak batteries mimic starter failure  (Lifewire).
• Alternator: Recharges the battery; a failing alternator often takes the starter down next.
• Starter relay & wiring: Cheap to test, critical for full voltage delivery.
  Inspect these items before condemning the crank motor.

The electric starter was patented in 1903 and first appeared on a Cadillac in 1912, replacing dangerous hand‑cranks  (WIRED). Today's 750Li still uses the same basic idea-just stronger, safer, and often paired with stop‑start or mild‑hybrid systems for better fuel economy.

Q: What does the starter motor actually do?
A: It's a small electric engine that turns the crankshaft about 200 rpm so the V‑8 can start on its own  (YouTube).

Q: Where is the starter on my 2008 750Li?
A: It hides under the intake manifold in the valley of the N62 V‑8, so the manifold must be lifted for access  (YouTube).

Q: How about a 2012 750Li?
A: Later F02 models place the starter low on the transmission, reachable from underneath  (YouTube).

Q: How long should a starter last?
A: Many last 100,000 miles or more, but heat, oil leaks, or low battery voltage can shorten life dramatically  (YourMechanic).

Q: Can I drive if the starter is failing?
A: Once the engine is running, yes-but if it stalls or you shut it off you may be stranded, so replacement is advised quickly  (Reddit).

Q: What's the tell‑tale difference between a dead battery and a bad starter?
A: Dim lights plus slow cranking point to the battery; bright lights plus a single click or silence point to the starter  (Lifewire, Reddit).

Q: What size battery do I need to protect the starter?
A: Choose one that meets or beats the factory Cold‑Cranking‑Amp (CCA) rating-often 900 CCA on a 7‑Series-so voltage stays above 10 V while cranking  (Lifewire).

Q: Are rebuilt units okay?
A: Quality rebuilds that meet factory specs work fine and save money; be sure brushes and solenoid are replaced, not just cleaned  (YourMechanic).

Q: Do I have to remove the intake to change the starter on all models?
A: Only on early N62 cars; N63 and newer designs moved the starter for easier service  (YouTube, YouTube).

Q: What torque should I use on the mounting bolts?
A: Tighten new stretch bolts to 20 Nm plus 180 degrees  (Bimmerpost).

Q: Why did BMW issue a starter recall?
A: Repeated long cranks could overheat the motor and nearby sound‑deadening material, raising a fire risk; a free software update limits crank time  (Automotive Dive, Kbb.com).

Q: Is there a simple way to extend starter life?
A: Keep battery terminals clean, fix oil leaks above the starter, and avoid holding the start button for more than five seconds  (Lifewire, Automotive Dive).

Q: Can a faulty ground strap mimic a bad starter?
A: Yes-poor grounds make the starter draw extra amps and crank slowly. Check the main engine‑to‑chassis ground cable for corrosion  (YouTube).

Q: Does the mild‑hybrid system eliminate the starter?
A: No; the 48‑volt belt‑starter‑generator handles stop‑start, but a conventional 12‑volt starter remains for cold starts and backup  (Automotive Dive).

Q: Who can confirm if my VIN is in the recall?
A: Use BMW's online recall‑lookup page or call their hotline; have your VIN handy  (BMW USA).