BMW 740i 2008-2015 Drivetrain Specifications
BMW 740i 2008-2015

BMW 740i 2008-2015 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and maintenance procedures for the drivetrain system of the 2008-2015 BMW 740i. Includes engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle components.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2008-2015 BMW 740i, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'drive shaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Drive Type

Rear-wheel drive

Front Brake Rotor Diameter

348 mm

Differential Ratio

2.81:1

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and key features

Engine Specifications
  • 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine
  • Maximum power output: 315 hp at 5,800 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 330 lb-ft at 1,600-4,500 rpm
  • Direct fuel injection system
  • Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Transmission System
  • 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP)
  • Gear ratios: 4.71 (1st), 3.14 (2nd), 2.11 (3rd), 1.67 (4th), 1.29 (5th), 1.00 (6th), 0.84 (7th), 0.67 (8th)
  • Final drive ratio: 2.81:1
  • Adaptive transmission control with sport mode

Note: The transmission features a torque converter for smooth power delivery.

Drive Shaft and Differential

Information about the drive shaft and differential components, including technical specifications

Drive Shaft
  • Two-piece steel drive shaft
  • Length: 1,250 mm
  • Diameter: 80 mm
  • Balanced for high-speed operation
Differential
  • Rear-wheel drive configuration
  • Limited-slip differential (optional)
  • Differential ratio: 2.81:1
  • Sealed for life with synthetic oil

Note: The differential is designed to optimize traction and stability.

Suspension and Axles

Technical details about the suspension and axle systems, including measurements and features

Front Suspension
  • Double-wishbone front suspension
  • Spring rate: 22 N/mm
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 28 mm
  • Adaptive air suspension (optional)
Rear Suspension
  • Multi-link rear suspension
  • Spring rate: 25 N/mm
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 18 mm
  • Self-leveling rear suspension (optional)

Note: The suspension system is tuned for a balance of comfort and performance.

Braking System

Details about the braking system, including specifications and key components

Front Brakes
  • Ventilated disc brakes
  • Rotor diameter: 348 mm
  • Caliper: 4-piston fixed
  • Brake pad material: Ceramic composite
Rear Brakes
  • Ventilated disc brakes
  • Rotor diameter: 345 mm
  • Caliper: Single-piston floating
  • Brake pad material: Ceramic composite

Note: The braking system includes ABS and dynamic brake control for enhanced safety.

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
N54B30
Configuration
Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement
3.0 L
Compression Ratio
10.2:1
Max Power
320 hp @ 5800 rpm
Max Torque
330 lb-ft @ 1400-5000 rpm
Fuel System
Direct injection
Part Number
11002283763

Transmission

Type
6-speed automatic
Model
GA6HP19Z
Gear Ratios
1st: 4.171:1
2nd: 2.340:1
3rd: 1.521:1
4th: 1.143:1
5th: 0.867:1
6th: 0.691:1
Reverse: 3.403:1
Fluid Capacity
9.5 L
Fluid Type
BMW ATF-1
Part Number
24007561493

Transfer Case

Type
Single-speed
Ratio
2.81:1
Fluid Capacity
1.2 L
Fluid Type
BMW TF-0870
Part Number
27107561494

Differential

Front
Type: Open differential
Ratio: 3.08:1
Fluid Capacity: 1.5 L
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Part Number: 33107561495
Rear
Type: Limited-slip differential
Ratio: 3.08:1
Fluid Capacity: 1.5 L
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Part Number: 33107561496

Driveshaft

Material
Aluminum
Length
1.8 m
Diameter
80 mm
Part Number
26107561497

Axles

Front
Type: CV joint
Spline Count: 32
Part Number: 31207561498
Rear
Type: CV joint
Spline Count: 32
Part Number: 31207561499

Clutch

Type
Hydraulic
Fluid Type
DOT 4
Fluid Capacity
0.5 L
Part Number
21507561500

Propeller Shaft

Material
Steel
Length
1.2 m
Diameter
70 mm
Part Number
26107561501

Mounts

Engine
Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22117561502
Transmission
Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22117561503

Operational Parameters

Max Engine Speed
7000 rpm
Max Transmission Temp
120°C
Max Differential Temp
90°C
Max Torque Transfer
500 Nm

Maintenance

Engine Oil
Type: BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30
Capacity: 6.5 L
Change interval: 10000 miles or 12 months
Transmission Fluid
Type: BMW ATF-1
Change interval: 60000 miles or 60 months
Differential Fluid
Type: BMW SAF-XO
Change interval: 60000 miles or 60 months

Diagnostics

Error Codes
P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0715: Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0730: Incorrect Gear Ratio
Diagnostic Tools
  • BMW ISTA
  • OBD-II Scanner

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10000
12
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Inspect brake system
  • Check tire pressure and condition

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30000
36
  • Replace air filter
  • Replace cabin air filter
  • Inspect drive belts

Check for wear and replace as necessary

60000
60
  • Replace transmission fluid
  • Replace differential fluid
  • Inspect suspension components

Fluid changes are critical for long-term reliability

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2008-2015 BMW 740i use?

The 2008-2015 BMW 740i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system available. The drivetrain is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (GA6HP19Z) for smooth power delivery.

Q2

What is the torque rating of the drivetrain components?

The drivetrain is designed to handle a maximum torque output of 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) from the N52B30 engine. The transmission and differential are engineered to support this torque rating for optimal performance and durability.

Q3

How often should the drivetrain fluids be replaced?

BMW recommends replacing the transmission fluid and filter every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km), depending on driving conditions. The differential fluid should be replaced every 50,000 to 75,000 miles (80,000 to 120,000 km). Always use BMW-approved fluids (e.g., Shell TF-0870 for transmission).

Q4

What are the signs of drivetrain issues in the BMW 740i?

Common signs include unusual noises (e.g., whining or clunking) during acceleration or deceleration, vibrations felt through the chassis, delayed engagement when shifting gears, and fluid leaks under the vehicle. Immediate inspection by a certified technician is recommended.

Q5

Can the drivetrain be upgraded for higher performance?

Yes, performance upgrades such as aftermarket limited-slip differentials, reinforced driveshafts, and upgraded transmission software (e.g., Alpina or Dinan) are available. However, modifications may void the factory warranty and should be performed by certified professionals.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 740i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering routine maintenance procedures, fluid specifications, and inspection intervals for the drivetrain components.

Transmission Fluid Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the transmission fluid and filter, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Differential Inspection and Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive manual for inspecting, servicing, and replacing differential components, including fluid specifications and alignment procedures.

BMW xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

Technical overview of the xDrive AWD system, including its operation, maintenance requirements, and troubleshooting tips.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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