2004 BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.70/5 Average
343 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 5 Series has been completely redesigned for 2004. Along with a new V8 and the iDrive vehicle management system, buyers can expect even greater handling from this premier midsize sedan than before.

Pros:
  • Available V8 power, handles more like a sports car than a sedan, luxurious yet sporty cabin.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 343.00
  • Well, well, well - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Ive had this car for three years now. Although, I really dig this car, I must say it really doesnt handle well in the snow. Ive gotten stuck plenty in the snow over the last three years. BMW needs to do something about better winter performance or I will be forced to purchase other vehicles and leave Bimmers alone completely. I cant believe I said that but my safety and well-being come first. My neighbor has a Chevy Cobalt and it gets around better in the snow than my Bimmer EVER could. BMW better think of customer safety if they want my continued business!

  • Super Car - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Having driven Corvettes, Merdedes, and even an Infinity for the last 30 years, I decided to try the new 2004 530i and I am impressed. It has superb handling qualities and surprising acceleration for 235 HP. I was first attracted to the car because of the new styling. I have read numderous compaints about the new look, and I cant understand it. I have received numerous complements on the looks and my wife called me yesterday to say she had received 3 separate "thumbs up" while at stoplights yesterday. Common folks, even Volvo got rid of their "boxy" look.

  • The E60 is a triumph - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is a sexy beast. Few sedans promise thrills, but this one delivers. Sure, steady power of the engine, coupled with the well-balanced set-up, simply kicks butt. But its not all thrills and speed, the luxury of the interior is simple, elegant and understated. A perfect complement to this sporty ride.

  • Peris Review - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Love this car. I had a 99 MB 300TD which I had bought new and loved but this is a more comfortable driving car. Fits nice.

  • Awesome - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    One awesome looking sedan that looks amazing on the streets. A head turner without a doubt.

  • Looks Great! Performs Good. - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Okay, consider the source, here. I am upgrading to the best class of car I have ever owned, but I know what a good and great car is. This is somewhere between good and great. I like what the Germans do with their cars. I like the way they build them. I like the way they design them, but the 530i is high maintenance. However, treat it right, and it will continue to make you happy. The handling on the 530i is unbeatable for a luxury sedan. The engine performance is deceptively good, not great, but good. Nevertheless, the interior is second to none. The looks combined with the great handling and good performance make it barely worth the price for me.

  • bmw 530I - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    The BMW 530i is an excellent driving machine. The power afforded combined with the excellent millage makes the 3 liter BMW engine one of the best in the world. The comfort level, quietness, handling and overall performance leaves little to be desired.

  • iDrive - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    We picked up our low mileage unit a few months ago. It basically has every option aside from the active cruise control. We love this car, we also love the iDrive system. We researched the car to death and wonder why iDrive is so hated. If you can answer an e-mail and actually take the time to read the manual, this system is something to adore. The prologic 7 sound system is the best audio system on the planet. Smooth acceleration and gorgeous styling. We have clocked a few thousand miles and could not be any happier. The nav system is very nice as well.

  • I chose right! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Researched three luxury cars over a couple months. The Mercededs E320 and Audi A6 couldnt compare to the comfort, luxury, power and handling of the BMW 525 with active steering. Much more spacious than the others, including the gigantic trunk. It has so much power I have to check the speedometer constantly. Great sleek design inside and out, love the headlight styling, bi-xenon is terrific and interior features cant be beat. Not enough space to describe the looks and positive comments this car gets on the road and even when parked! I definitely made the right choice!

  • Its a trap! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I owned a 2004 530i that I purchased in 2013 for a year and six months and 20,000 miles. In those 20,000 miles the vehicle needed more than $5,000 in maintenance and repair items, and this was a clean 1 owner example that had been meticulously maintained. It needed 4 new brake pads and rotors for $2200, 4 new tires for $1200, all new PCV hoses for $850, Spark Plugs for $300, transmission fluid and filter exchange for $900, water pump and coolant for $75 (DIY), $200 for a sunroof leak and the subwoofer it took out (DIY), and $300 in oil and filter changes. I cringe when I think about how much I spent on this car, only to have it totaled in a flood. However, it was the most solid driving, comfortable and beautiful car I have ever owned. All of the features it had worked from the heated steering wheel, to the complex iDrive system, even after 11 years and 120,000 miles. The engine still purred like a kitten, could bounce off the rev limiter, and the car would still hit 155mph and pull 0.90g in the bends just like when it was new. It never broke down, nor had any problems. All of the items listed above are either wear items, or were replaced preventatively. I cant imagine owning another BMW of this age, as the rubbers and plastics used simply dont hold up over time, however Id definitely consider owning another newer one. This car is not for the faint of heart, and if you just need a cheap luxury car to drive everyday, Id go for a Lexus. On the other hand, if you like to work on cars yourself, or want a fun daily driver and are willing to pay for it, the BMW is the best youll find.

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