2006 BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
155 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 525 and 530 models receive an all-new 3.0-liter inline-six engine this year, and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is now available to serve those who need a little more bad-weather bite. BMW is also offering a versatile 5 Series wagon to U.S. customers once more, though only in 530xi trim. The 545i has been replaced by the 550i, which features a 360-horsepower, 4.8-liter V8.

Pros:
  • One of the most satisfying midsize sport sedans/wagons you can buy, ultrarefined engines, multiple transmissions, tastefully appointed cabin, exceptional build quality, strong resale value.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 155.00
  • Cracks in 18-inch wheels/run-flat tires - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    BWM refuses to acknowledge that their rims are defective and crack as a result of normal driving, especially their 18 inch rims when coupled with run-flat tires. We dont take speed bumps at 40 mph, run over curbs, or not slow for a potholes... events that might possibly crack a rim or break a tire. Yet BMW’s excuse for not replacing 2 cracked rims was that the cracks must have been caused by the driver, not faulty rims/run-flat tire combination. In the past several years we have owned 3 BMWs... but this will be our last because of such a head-in-the-sand approach taken by BMW NA.

  • Best of the best - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is truly the ultimate driving machine. Powerful, confident, amazing handling and comfortable. This car is just fun to drive in all conditions. The all wheel drive handles in all conditions. Car looks great, the leather seating is comfortable and the stereo sounds terrific. Acceleration is impressive also.

  • The best car ever - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Great car! Mileage couldnt be better. This is the first BMW I have owned and I love it. Very fun to drive.

  • Amazing - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Wow... I had wanted a BMW for years, and finally pulled the trigger on a 525i CPO. I didnt see the need for the 530, as I believe the 215 HP on the 525 was enough. Amazing handling, feel, and I love the iDrive. I understand the griping, but all it takes is a few minutes of studying, and I love it.

  • The Ultimate Drivers Car - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    BMW 5 series is the ultimate luxury car this side of $50K. Its ride and feel is sporty yet comfortable and smooth and quiet. I bought a CPO 530i which was 3 yrs used for $30K with only 25K miles on it and Premium pack, Navigation and Xenon lights but no Sport pack. The ride is smooth and refined for everyday commute and long journey yet very tight and balanced for the mountain curves and quick maneuvers. The 6 speed auto transmission is AWESOME and it feels like a Japanese V8 as per power delivery goes. The turning circle is awesome. The fuel economy is amazing as I get 25 mpg combines for my mostly highway commute and 20 local mostly city commute when my wife drives it.

  • Inconsistent Idle - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    15 year BMW owner. This car/engine has an idle issue. If you are thinking of buying one observe how it idles after reaching temperature. As you stop, the car idle drops to normal. 2 seconds later it drops, shakes the car, returns to normal. Happens a lot. Been to dealer 6 times. Have driven other 2006 and 2007 530s and noted the SAME issue although some vehicles not quite as noticeable. Worried about long term viability of this car.

  • Sorry to have purchased this car - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Car is very nice except for a problematic idling issue. Been to the dealer over 6 times (lost count thereafter), talked with BMW of North America several times. No satisfaction even though the car is under warranty. If you are looking to own a BMW hope that you get a good one and not a lemon as I have. I have owned several BMWs over a 15 year period and feel completely let down by the situation. Two more observations: sound system is average, very average. Wind noise from the sunroof is annoying.

  • In a class by itself - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Bought this car for my wife after we sold our X5. Boy was this a revelation. Driving off from the dealer lot, I could tell this was no ordinary car. The smoothest acceleration Ive ever experienced. The bluetooth rocks. The Navigation is intuitive and the Gas mileage is off the charts (25mpg). This car combines comfort, performance and style excellently well. After 1 year, weve had no issues with the car, and are falling in love with it more every day.

  • CPO Vehicle - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I bought a 2006 CPO and I have never been so impressed with an automobile, even if used. The quality of build, interior and exterior finish, ride, and great gas mileage (30 mpg highway) blows me away. The iDrive system is easy to use and relieves you of numerous buttons and knobs that would be needed to run the systems it controls. I have had other luxury or semi-luxury cars i.e. Lincoln, Mercedes, and a Toyota Avalon and none, I repeat none, deserve to be parked in the garage with the 530i. So many small touches add to this car such as small orange LEDs beaming streams of dim light on door handles, gear shift, side pockets, at night. I certainly will be a BMW man for years to come.

  • 06 SMG Dream Ride - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Purchased 06 CPO with 37k miles. After researching for 2yrs, finally purchased gray beauty. The balance and performance are amazing.Purchased the SMG model, it took a little getting used to, but is truly fun to drive. Many of the reviews about iDrive scared me, but after the initial set up, the iDrive is great. It makes driving easier. We have the Sirius Satellite and this makes long drives a pleasure for all.The ride? Amazing, with active steering and Sports package a great combination. The seats are great and it is truly a fun ride. Great value for a used car, make sure you have a car warranty and service warranty. Can be costly.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area