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Used 1997 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
72 reviews

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I expected more

California Driver, 06/28/2003
1997 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My previous car was a '87 BMW 325. Got 257,000 miles with no major repairs - wonderful car. I have 150,000 on this car - just replaced the drive-shaft, control arm is going and some bushings as well. The transmission (auto) has slipped twice and my mechanic tells me it will need to be replaced soon. That's about $7000 total. I expected much better reliability, especially compared to my previous car.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Too early to tell

jgogan, 12/01/2007
1997 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just purchased this 540i (my first Bmer) in Sept, 07. The car had been well cared for with 130K. I like this car a lot. Acceleration, ride, styling and amenities are all first rate. The transmission is a 5-speed auto that keeps are RPMs down when cruising. Just developed a transmission leak and the heating comes on when it wants to. Presently waiting to be inspected by my mechanic for cause and cure analysis. I'm hopeful to create a review after 1 year that comes off a little more positive. I still remain positive though; realizing how much I enjoy this car when all is working well. Get back to you in a year.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Stay away

badnews, 04/10/2002
1997 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the most dangerous car I've ever owned. In the two years I have owned it, the engine has blown, the electrical system has completely failed, and the car almost caught on fire. I bought it used with 42,000 miles on it and it now has 91,000 miles on it. BMW should be embarrassed. The only saving grace is that I have a 100,000 mile extended warranty. It has easily saved me $15,000 in repairs. I am about to trade it in for a Honda Accord.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

In love

bimmergal, 09/25/2002
1997 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my 528ia last year, and I love it! Not only is it fun to drive, but I get great gas mileage, and I get a lot of attention from the guys! I have never had a car before that responded as quickly and powerfully as this one. I would like to have an M5 but as of yet can't afford it. Thank goodness I didn't get that 98 328 convertible I looked at first! My car is gorgeous outside and inside.I'm only 26, so I didn't want a sedan that looked like an old lady car. I doubt that I will ever buy a car by any other maker! So far reliability has been good.I'm at 47,988 miles now.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Lots of Fun

zipper, 02/19/2003
1997 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Combines luxury with performance. Very fun to drive.

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