IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2021–2022 BMW 7 Series (G11/G12)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2021–2022 BMW 7 Series (G11/G12). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
0
Moderate
2
Minor

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Compressor

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The standard 2-axle air suspension system compressor and solenoid valve block can suffer air leaks or thermal burnout, causing the car to drop on one corner or sit unevenly.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Uneven stance or front-to-rear ride height disparity after sitting, "Chassis restricted" error message on instrument cluster, Air suspension fails to raise when pressing height control switch

What to Inspect:
  • Cycle the air suspension through normal and raised height settings
  • Listen for air hissing around valve block under car
  • Confirm compressor runs quietly and shuts off within 20 seconds
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Display Key Battery/Screen

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The optional BMW Display Key with its colour touchscreen has a delicate lithium battery and micro-USB port that degrades quickly, leading to touchscreen unresponsiveness or refusal to charge.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£400
Warning Signs:

Display Key screen remains black or flickers, Key battery depletes in less than 24 hours, Failure to establish remote vehicle communication

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm both standard physical keys and the Display Key are present
  • Charge the Display Key via USB and test touch functions and battery indicator
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Massage Seat Malfunction

MinorInterior & Trim

The optional multi-contour massage seats use multiple pneumatic bladders and an electric air compressor inside the backrest that can leak air or blow valves, leaving massage functions dead.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£800
Warning Signs:

Massage programme cuts out after 10 seconds, Whirring compressor sound inside seat without bladder inflation, Pneumatic lumbar adjustment deflates slowly on motorway drives

What to Inspect:
  • Test massage programmes on both front and rear seats through the iDrive menu
  • Check that all massage intensity settings inflate properly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2021–2022 BMW 7 Series (G11/G12)

  • Check the air suspension system by raising and lowering the car; ensure the compressor isn't noisy and the car sits perfectly level.
  • Test the complex Display Key; ensure it holds a charge and can successfully communicate with the car, as replacements are very expensive.
  • On diesel models, check the EGR cooler recall status, as early G11s were affected by the same coolant leak and fire risk as the 5 Series.
  • Verify the operation of the active grille shutters, which can stick open or closed due to debris and cause engine warning lights.
  • Inspect the interior trim and leather for heavy wear, particularly the driver's seat bolsters, as the soft Nappa leather requires care.
  • Ensure the touchscreen and gesture controls work flawlessly, and check that the advanced driving assistance cameras are clear and functional.
2020
Check a 2021–2022 BMW 7 Series (G11/G12) by Registration