Overview & Reviews

The 2008 BMW 5 Series receives a number of significant changes, most notably a pair of new six-cylinder engines. The base 5 Series is now the 528i and features a 230-horsepower inline-6, while the 535i is powered by the same twin-turbo 300-hp inline-6 found in the 3 Series. There are a number of high-tech standard and optional additions to the 5 Series that allow it to keep pace and, in a few instances, surpass the rapidly advancing competition. To spot the updated 5 Series, look for a barely noticeable redesigned front airdam, new headlight lenses and LED taillights.

• Exceptional ride and handling dynamics, smooth and vigorous engines, premium cabin furnishings, precision build quality, strong resale value.

• More expensive than most competitors, iDrive system is still a pain in the Bangle butt.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 206.00

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  Glad I leased and didnt buy- be careful - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By djl - February 28 - 6:08 pm

  This 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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  Long time Mac user loves iDrive - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By ebenson - January 30 - 11:36 am

  Not 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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  problem after problem - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By matt c - January 26 - 8:32 pm

  Great to drive and a wonderful car that gets 24 mpg in mixed driving when not broken. After about five months an oil light came on and then noticed a large oil spill at the house. The oil pump had exploded so the dealer took care of it. Then the power steering belt broke and took the AC out with it. Not exaggerating in saying the car went in for at least 10 visits and half were on a flat bed. I really like the car other than the fact I dont know when I am going to be stranded by the car. The Dealer did a shoddy job of fixing the initial problem which turned out to be a leak in some gasket they found after about ten visits. It appears that caused all the other problems.

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  Great...when it runs - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By n - January 26 - 1:08 pm

  I really liked this car until it left me stranded on the highway. Bought it new 1 year and 3 months ago and put 26000 miles on it. Its consistently had problems with cold starts and then completely died a week ago. I know that the high pressure fuel pumps have been a problem for these cars, but I thought a $60,000 car would at least come with a functioning fuel pump

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  Still going strong - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By k - January 2 - 1:43 pm

  I have driven this car hard for a year and a half and have yet to go through any technical problems with the car. This car is tough as nails. The engine is extremely smooth, and the Sport mode is like attaching rockets to your car when you need it to pass someone on the highway. The trunk is spacious, as is the rear seat, as two 62 guys have sat comfortably. The N54 engine (the TT L6) is easily one of the best BMW engines, and has won Engine of the Year awards consistently. Has never been to the shop other than scheduled maintenance, despite being somewhat abused by a young driver with a lead foot for about 14,000 miles. Never had a problem starting in cold weather, and no malfunctions.

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  SAAAAAADDDD BMW owner - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Annie - December 27 - 9:43 pm

  I bought this car used with a clean car fax in 2010 with less than 15000 miles. I bought an extended warranty just in case. I spent 8 month researching vehicles i would like to own and keep for 10 years. I have made a very poor decision. The maintenance cost on this vehicle will exceed its worth. Its been fun to drive, a very comfortable car with decent gas mileage. However, when Ive taken it in for service, its like sleeping with the devil. Goodbye emergency fund and hello credit card debt. Its the most disappointing feeling to love a car so much and be saddled with such repair bills. Fuel injectors replaced, water pump, thermostat, numerous hoses and vacuum hoses, and now replacing turbos and catalytic converters all before 90,000 miles. Not good resale either!!!

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  Better than Advertised - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By tonyc67 - December 23 - 4:43 am

  Test drove A6, GS 350, E550 and there is no comparision with this car. Had it a week and drove from SF to Santa Barbara and wanted to continue driving, it is so comfortable and fun to drive. Sport, premium, Logic 7, Sirius, Sport Shifters.

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  Smooth - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Uncle Walt - November 25 - 9:33 pm

  Bought this car as a CPO with 27,000 miles on. Like new condition. Of course it drives great however, one surprise. 32.5 MPG!! Ive had Cadillacs, Volvos and several other cars none come close to this car.

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  Did anyone at BMW think about the inside - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Scott - November 25 - 11:23 am

  If someone had told me that I would ever be disappointed driving a BMW Id have told them they were nuts. With all of the obvious thought given to the exterior design, the mechanical, electronics, etc. Why would they screw up on such no brainers like climate controls, storage, and the ridiculous cupholder arrangement. Did someone at BMW spill coffee on the plans and so the factory just winged it? Other than those minor irritations, its a great car, quiet, responsive, fun to drive (although nowhere near as fun as my infiniti was), gets decent mileage, and gets a lot of appreciative looks from others.

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  Engine Failure - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Bimmer-R - November 21 - 11:16 pm

  This is not the best of BMW, this is my 2nd 5 Series and I expected better. Fuel leak twice, engine failure twice, car stopped once, engine rattling as if it was going to die most often than any used cheap car. Worst production twin turbo of BMW. Engine runs fast if it does not go nuts. I highly recommend people to buy another model with no turbo for now. My first one had the whole seat replaced, whole sun roof replaced, engine barrier replaced...this one had engine failure twice, disaster memory seat program, I hate to say this but I will really have to be convinced to buy another BMW this will go back to them! Do not learn it the hard way... read the other comments and you will know why.