Overview & Reviews
It's no exaggeration to say that the BMW 5 Series sets the standard for premium sport sedans. Introduced for the 1972 model year, the midsize 5 Series has long offered a near-perfect blend of performance, luxury and interior room. It's also highly regarded for its refined styling and innovative technology features.
Most BMW 5 Series models you'll come across will be rear-wheel-drive sedans, though you'll stumble upon the occasional 5 Series wagon on the used car market. In addition, all-wheel drive has been optional for some time, and many used sedans in colder climes will be so equipped. Traditionally, the 5 Series has featured an inline six-cylinder gasoline engine, but BMW has also offered V8 engines, turbocharged four-cylinders and even diesel-powered options. When people ask us to recommend luxury cars, the BMW 5 Series is invariably high on the list, new or used.
User Reviews:
Showing 101 through 110 of 2,190.00-
Glad I leased and didnt buy- be careful - 2008 BMW 5-Series
By djl - February 28 - 6:08 pmThis was my first BMW and likely my last. Was initially excited about the ride, performance, and interior (except cup holders) until it stranded me twice. One engine failure at 75 mph! Have been through 3 thermostats, computer reprogramming, and more. Had hoped to buy it initially after lease end, now Im glad I leased so I can walk away.
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Been a great car - 1997 BMW 5-Series
By Susie - February 20 - 4:56 pmI have had my 540 for almost 5 years now. I love the car, fun to drive, fast, reliable. Gas mileage is poor but it is a big V8 under the hood. Have only done routine mileage related repairs that any car would need, only at a much higher cost and we do all our own repairs. Hate to say it has been hit twice and is the only 10+ year old car I know of that was totally covered for a combined 10k of body repairs. My only re-occurring complaint is the need of new tires, alignments more often then most cars, I only put 20k on it in 5 years and I am on my 3rd set of tires. Oh and for winter driving, this car stinks, which is why my next auto, later this year, is the X5!! I do love my 540 though!
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So for so good - 2007 BMW 5-Series
By vicanam - February 19 - 5:11 pmBought my first CPO with low mileage nearly six months ago. The 5-series is perfect size for a family of 4 2 are in the teens. Added feature is the AWD for Northeast winters. The car performance is excellent: eager firm predictable. Braking reliability is phenomenon. The look and feel of the car is wonderful. Now, for the improvement needs: several controls need easier access/feedback to driver: door lock, steering heater, lights, climate controls, ... ashtrays and cup holders are everywhere, but lack of room for sun glass, cellphones. Overall control panel, dashboard: their layouts and lightnings are unimpressive. Radio/CD and sound systems are below average.
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Problems Arise - 2010 BMW 5-Series
By Ira - February 18 - 5:04 pmJust before the 4000 mile mark, I noticed oil drips on my garage floor. I made a service appointment, and the next day, after being out overnite in a snowstorm, it had a hard time starting, and then driving at speed, the "engine malfunction - reduce power" warning lite came on. We were near a BMW dealer so stopped there - they diagnosed the engine warning as a fuel pressure sensor failure and they could not precisely diagnose the oil leak, saying that the transmission will have to be removed to see where it is leaking. The work requires sending pictures and documentation to Germany for repair authorization, so i can expect to be without the car for up to a week. Unacceptable reliability.
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A Costly Mistake - 1999 BMW 5-Series
By Markscars16 - February 12 - 8:20 pmWhen I first purchased this car it looked great as far as paint, along with fit and finish. It also rode well but needed more power. But from 2004 which is when I purchased the car with about 42,000 miles on it from a one owner until now with 100000 miles on it, I have spent over $6500 dollars on brakes, power steering leaks, power window motors, head and tail lamp shorts, transmission problems, and other engine and electrical issues! These cars are over priced, over rated and you will pay bigtime after the 4 year new car warranty is gone! This car is a NO! NO! The Germans need to wake up as the Americans are doing now!
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Engine Malfunction - 2010 BMW 5-Series
By Darrell - February 12 - 1:24 pmThis is the third BMW that I have owned (335i and 2 ea 535is) I have had the engine malfunction light come on and have lost power. You can stop the car and then restart it and it may be ok for awhile but the same problem will return. The dealer has been able to fix the problem quickly on both of the times that I have had the problem, it was a bad fuel pump. lower grade gas will also cause the problem with the injectors. Other than that the cars have been great.
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One year anniversary - 2002 BMW 5-Series
By 3sons66 - February 8 - 1:02 pmOne word to describe this car: FUN One word to describe reliability: STINKS BMW for the past year has meant "Bring More Wrenches" in my case...but there is something about this car I absolutely love. Incredible handling and power. Replaced in the last twelve months: Water pump, radiator, pulleys, belts, valve cover gaskets, plugs all total about $1500 plus. Do research on forums to reduce annual maintenance costs..MANY DIYs for items replaced. I am amazed that a $65000 car needs this much attention only after 70K short miles. Looks like rear air suspension will be on the list for 2010. Easy fix though. Would I buy again? Probably not. Hope the new ones rank a little higher.
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High milage 528I - 1999 BMW 5-Series
By K.L.Denham - January 30 - 2:24 pmWe bought this car in 2004 for its styling and performance. Its the wifes primary driver and she puts on a lot of miles. All was well until about 120K. Both rear window regulators have been replaced, $160 ea. The water pump went out. The alternator went out and we replaced with a low mile used one for half the $260 for a new one. Three weeks after the alternator the radiator sprung a leak, $550 to have it replaced. Added with the expensive oil changes $60-$70 and the sport suspension that wears the inside of tire out in 25,000 miles if not constantly rotated and lack of good certified BMW mechanics outside of big city areas, you might think twice about a higher mileage beemer.
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Long time Mac user loves iDrive - 2008 BMW 5-Series
By ebenson - January 30 - 11:36 amNot sure what all the gripping is about the 5-Series (circa 2008) iDrive. With NAV, very easy to use while driving. As easy as a Mac to learn and use! Some issues with comfort access misfires and turbo lag at lower speeds.
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BMW 530 past 60,000 miles - 2003 BMW 5-Series
By TonyH - January 29 - 8:51 amThe 530 corners as if it is on rails and it accelerates very quickly and smoothly. I also own a E350 Benz and the BMW kills it in terms of performance (and the Benz is no slouch). The difference with the Benz is that the quality of the interior is hugely superior to the 530 - indeed the 530 is pretty basic in comparison. The BIG problem with the Beemer is reliability. Since hitting about 60k its been own thing after another. First the door locks stopped working, then the doors started leaking, then the AC started acting up, then the alternator died, then, then.....the dollars just keep flowing out the door. For a car that is competing in the luxury space this is just BAD
