2003 BMW 5 Series Consumer Discussions

BMW 5-Series Prices Paid and Buying Experience

Re: Hi [bmlexus]

Written by: x021627 on May 08, 2008 03:57 PM

I drove a 2003 BMW 530 for 2 years. Put $45K miles on it in that time. Great car and my first BMW. Decided that the high mileage was going to cause me to be out of warranty in short order and since my commute changed, decided to instead get a Lexus 330. Nice car, but like a sofa. No real fun driving. Great for long trips. Won't be passing folks or making quick maneuvers. Since ... Read More...

BMW 5-Series Starting Problems

Re: BMW 525i 2003 50K starting problem. Please help!!! [pham]

Written by: hduhaney on May 07, 2008 00:43 AM

I had the same problem,disconnect the fuse for the radio amplifier in the trunk . I think the radio amplifier is powered with a relay. I don;t have the problem anymore, just no radio. I replaced the amplifier,had the same problem. I have heard that there is a problem with the radio drawing excessive current when the ignition is off.Normal current draw should be ... Read More...

BMW 5-Series Maintenance and Repair

5 series seat motor cable

Written by: dansa2 on Apr 09, 2008 03:27 PM

2003 5 series passenger seat is rarely used. One side of seat will not raise nor recline. BMW service informed me that motor cable is stretched, they have repaired as many as 50. A 5hr job plus parts. reluctant to have repaired they came back with 3hr plus parts. Has anyone had this seat problem? Read More...

BMW 5-Series Starting Problems

Re: 2003 525 Not starting [mrfinagle]

Written by: roadburner on Mar 23, 2008 00:11 PM

Thanks for the kind words. I'm just glad to be able to help fellow BMW owners. Read More...

BMW 5-Series Extended Warranties

Re: 2001 BWM 530 warranty question [edbarry12]

Written by: shipo on Mar 01, 2008 00:40 PM

Many folks, myself included, would advise that you simply "self insure" by taking the money that you would otherwise spend on the warranty and set it aside for unscheduled repairs. While you may not make out on any one car, the betting is that over years that you are a car owner, you'll come out well ahead in the end. FWIW, the last car that I bought the "extended warranty" ... Read More...

BMW 5-Series Accessories and Modifications

Re: 2003 525i New to BMW-In Dash Navigation [jaliee]

Written by: aqb on Feb 06, 2008 06:47 AM

FYI: The nav system in my 2003 540 just died. It was mediocre when working. Dealer sez $3000 to replace....Buy a garmin. Read More...

BMW 535i vs Lexus GS 350 vs Audi A6

BMW Reliability

Written by: papsephus on Jan 19, 2008 03:15 PM

Why worry so much about reliablility of the turbos. Trust me, if something goes wrong BMW will fix it. I have a 2003 7 series and have spent $0 other than uprading my maintenance plan which was just over $1000. Yes, I have had to bring the vehicle in plenty of times because something needed to be fixed, but they gave me a car to drive and I left there will a bill for $0. I ... Read More...

BMW 5-Series Accessories and Modifications

2003 525i New to BMW-In Dash Navigation

Written by: jaliee on Jan 18, 2008 08:53 PM

I just bought a 2003 525 i and I would like to upgrade the stereo system and add navigation. I was going back and forth between Pioneer and Alpine when my co-worker advised me against having an after-market navigation system installed in the BMW dash. Is this a no-no and if so, what would you suggest? I am looking for the Ipod/Navigation system combination, but I ... Read More...

Buying a used 5 Series

1995 530i 5 spd or 2001-2003 530i SP 5 spd -buy?

Written by: pfagen on Sep 04, 2007 02:22 PM

Forum Members, your opinions, please, on to buy the 95': Here is the ad for the 95 model: "112k highway miles, july 95 manu, owned since July 96 (I saw the forum link talking about the v8 US gas issue + I have a bmw mechanic to do a prepurchase inspection), owner bought a x5 and now willing to part with the 530i - asking $7400, Kelly BB=$8390" Please note: 1. I owned a 89 ... Read More...

BMW 5-Series Starting Problems

Re: 2003 525 Not starting [shipo]

Written by: lancer5 on Jan 02, 2008 07:09 PM

I think so, the starter turns, So I assume the engine is turning. I have never jump started a BMW , But am familiar with Cars in general. I could try jump starting though I am a little apprehensive about it ! Read More...