Used 1999 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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BMW 528i
Outstanding ride. Very impressive in the snow and on ice. Quiet, comfortable and fun on the highway.
99 528i
Purchased the car with 110,000miles and sold it with 200,000. Owned the car for 3 years and during that time other then $30 per oil change every 10k i had to spend $100 on new water pump. THAT IS IT. This car costed me nothing to own. If you are looking for a nice car that requires little to no maintenance - this is a car to get. Very good engine that has no problems, good performance and good MPG (30mpg on highway at 60mph).
- 528i SedanMSRP: $5,9901,054 mi away
- 540i WagonMSRP: $9,8981,103 mi away
- 528i SedanMSRP: $2,9951,170 mi away
Phenom - Best Car I've Had
I have driven every car under the sun except for maybe the Bugatti's and McLaren Merc. This is a total favorite. I owned a 1995 version which had some electrical and suspension problems. This 1999 version is a beast with refinement and awesome handling. I grew up with a test engineer father and we absolutely thrash our cars. This 540i holds up better than any vehicle I have tried to thrash. I have owned Australian racing Toranas, several Subarus, a few BMW (540i, 3 series) and a Lotus Espirit (twin turbo). Overall this is the best machine I have had the pleasure to own or drive and it's handling is 2nd to none in the luxury car stakes.
Best car in the world
Have this car for two years, bought it used. Drove to Nova Scotia from New York this year and had a great drive all the way. Incredible handling, great comfort, powerful as all get out! Am 78 years old and have had them all--MB's, Lexus rx, 330S etc. Nothing compares to this car which makes you regret it when you exit the car--you want to drive on!
Bargain sports car
What an excellent sports sedan! The looks are timeless and the performance is outstanding. It will put a grin on your face and up to four others in the car with you. Silky smooth V8 with the 6sp manual is a great combination in this size car. A premium car that anyone can afford. Glad I finally got one.
Great alternative to the SUV
Have had this car for a month now. I purchased it as my 3 series was too small for the family. Absolutely the best car I have owned to date. Performance of V8 and sports package is amazing. Steptronic transmission is velvet smooth. Fit and finish are excellent. Maintenance is very reasonable if you do it yourself. Take a look at www.roadfly.org to learn about typical problems. Only problem is that wife and I fight over who will drive it. (she has an Acura MDX) Keep an eye on the radiator as these are known to fail every 50K. (A $300 DIY fix). Purchase a set of winter tires
Love this car but
My wife had a new baby and bought this car. We love the car,it's fun to drive, and realiable, but find it difficult to put a baby in a car seat, and it does not have the extra hooks to tie down a car seat. The drink holders are the worst I have ever seen. We need to move on to a the mini van and forget about getting another BMW.
ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE
Acquired 5 years ago - this is a sport car sedan. Driven properly it has no serious maintenance issues. It does run through tires every 25,000 miles. Avoid around town driving - best if driven on interstates at 70 mph minimum 30 minutes. Basically, I drive it 1-2 days per week for pleasure. An extremely powerful vehicle that clings to the road. It is the ultimate driving machine.
Awesome German Engineering
I've been trained in and conducted vehicle pursuits as well as driven for performance. I didn't know how incredible a normal road car could be until I found this car used. Yes I miss cup holders but the Germans build cars to drive, not eat and drink in. The power can almost be scary and the knowledge that you can dust just about everything else on the road is comforting. Do your own maintenance and you can afford driving the car. Change your oil (on your own it's $35-40 not $150) every 2500 miles and you'll do well. Keep your wheels balanced and aligned. If they are out ever so slightly you'll know it and think your brakes are having problems.
Brace yourself
Bought the 99 540i-6speed w M-Sport suspension 2 months ago with 137K. I didn't have the BMW bug until I went with my son to test drive one. A month later I bought this car. Doing all the maintenance myself. I saw the previous owner was spending $$$ on maintenance, at the dealership. The trip to work has never been the same since. Everyday I get out of the car absolutely amazed. Accelerates like a space shuttle, turns like a cat, shifts flawlessly ...this cars performance is awe inspiring. I am sure there are faster cars, but nothing will touch it under $50K. Something will go wrong, I am sure. When it does, I will just recall this wonderful feeling and repair her back to original ;-)
Good car
The 540i if you're going to buy one is an excellent car. The only draw backs which you should worry about are the brakes and water pump. They go on these cars and will cost to fix. But remember the problem won't arise again for years if even then. So go ahead and purchase one, just have some money on the side for repairs or find someone who works on BMWs for a reasonable price!
Dream Car!
Far & away the best car I've ever owned.This car is not a Lexus. You feel every curve, the engine is inspiring and the reliability is unmatched.
Last car I'll own
The car's power and performance sold me within two miles of leaving the dealership for a test drive. I've had to replace a couple of parts but I've been able to do it myself. This was due to previous owners neglect though. Easy to work on (as long as it's not an electric problem) but some parts are a bit pricey. There are few stock cars that can outperform the 540i on the road. It's nice to have the power and brakes when u need it.
BMW Driver for life!
We bought our 540i as a Christmas present for us last year and it has not disappointed. It has the 4.4L engine so it's not great on gas, but the thrill factor is off the charts. Maintenance is not cheap but we didn't expect it to be either. We purchased it with 155,000 miles on the odometer and now have 183,000 and it still runs super strong. Highly recommended with the 6 speed sport package!
High-maintenance
E39 doesn't age well. The cooling system is sure to fail by 100K - radiator, water pump and more. Front end likely shot by that mileage. Rear end suspension too. All kinds of leaks, power steering, transmission hoses. All the vacuum tubes get extremely brittle and disintegrate when you touch them. The VANOS system is likely shot by that mileage, decreasing MPG and power. Automatic tranny replaced at 80K Basically just ridiculous how such an expensive car can have reliability of a 1980's Ford. It's a true FORD car, Fix-Or-Repair-Daily.
Total package
Sold an Audi S4 to get into the 540i. Yes, I certainly miss the Quattro in the winter; but, in nice weather, the 540i provides an unsurpassed performance driving experience - gobs of torque, great brakes, unflappable suspension and super accurate steering response. All of this - combined with a quiet, luxurious cabin with room for five - can't imagine the M5's capabilities!!
The best sports wagon you can ever own!!
Smokin! If you have one you know what a great car it is!! Its easy to work on so I wont get rid of it. 120,000 miles and it is still as strong running as if it had 20,000. The torque is just a great feeling! It's a 'sleeper' on the streets. It's hard not to drive it hard like a sports car!!! I will fix any problem because you can't replace this car with an SUV. I have a Navigator for luxury rides and a Mini MC40 edition for go-cart fun rides but the wagon is a load hauling sports-car!!!
Awesome car.
So far bought my 99 528i with 175k on it back in November of 2019. Car never had issues and really comfortable ride. Its pretty strong and fast plus the build quality of the exterior is solid that I can trust. Just change the oil and filter with Mobil 1 extended performance every 5k and it will serve you well. So far will keep this car for years until it gives up.
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Nothing Even Comes Close
True car nut here. I have owned and driven just about every vehicle on the face of the planet. It's true what everyone says: the BMW 540i is the best 4 door sedan $ can buy. My 99' 540i with the M packages and dealer installed Dinan Stage III is an everyday driver that behaves like an exotic.
Just Awesome!!!
I've owned my 540i 6 speed sport for one year now. Although its going on 8 years old and 103K miles, it doesn't have a single rattle - the build quality is exceptional. The torque of the V8 is addictive and takes the car from an everyday commuter to track day hooligan. Two car seats fit great in the back and even though I'm putting in premium at >$3 a gallon, I'm getting 24 mpg on the highway in 6th gear. These cars are more maintenance intensive than your everyday Japanese appliance, but the drive is worth it!
Inherited Car
I'm not a "car person" so you guys bear with me. I inherited this car from my husband. We were married this year and this was his car he was left with after the divorce (wife got Toyota Land Cruiser and he got one for himself after awful experience with a Ford Explorer) The car has alot of miles on it, but according to others, not alot for a BMW. All maintenance is expensive! Still needs a bit of work, but drives like a dream and looks great! I have thought of trading in for something new, but I've decided to keep it because it really is good quality. If I could buy a brand new car and price was not an option, it would be another BMW.
Awesome Car
This car is serious. I just bought it last month and I have never been more impressed with a 4 door sports car. I had turned in my SL500 and this car is everything that car was (except for the convertible!) and I can put a baby seat in the back!
Best car ever
I owned this car for about 13 years, since new. I knew nothing about cars and this was perhaps the most poorly treated, neglected car you can ever imagine. Yet, it was lower maintenance than my current Japanese 'reliable' car, which I follow service schedule to the letter. The worst "problem" was at 10 years when squirrels ate through wires during a year of just sitting, the mechanic changed some fluids, replaced some seals (under 2k total, with all the squirrel damage). So, I stupidly was the worst car owner ever. Yet, the car was perfect. I only sold because I needed money for move and didn't need a car. But, from day 1, this was the best driving experience I have ever experienced. It felt like there was no car there, in a good way, like I was completely connected with road. The seats made my lower back hurt beyond belief after a long trip, yet I happily put up with this pain because of the driving experience (except winter, without snow tires, it was a really bad car in the snow). The cup holders, as everyone has commented on, were beyond bad. They broke in the first year and barely held a drink even when the flimsy 'arms' were functioning. Should be in a museum of bad design. It had other quirks, the steering-wheal/key would randomly 'lock' frequently during attempts to start it...sometimes I wondered if I was going to get going, but always did. I even miss these quirks! Seriously, when I got it people said it would be constant problems and unreliable and maybe I just got lucky (or this car is a masochist), but it was so reliable. And the MPG it got was insane!! I think even better than advertised, crazy.
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Simply the BEST
This is my third 5 series beamer and nothing comes close to the proformance, style and comfort of my 540I. Equiped with every option including the 6 speed manual transmission that will put you back in the sit in each gear. The low end torque allows me to limit the down shifts and still leave me a lot of power.
Coolest Looking Wagon
Built like a tank but handles like a sports car. I have the six cylinder version. Sometimes I long for the 8 but overall performance is strong, particularly at high cruising speeds.
It's been a ride
Great performance, fun to drive, don't live in New England, however. Bad in snow/ice, even a very little. Interior design is good, love the radio controls on the steering wheel. Cup holders have broken off five times, windshield wipers have stopped working in the rain, front molding has fallen off.
paradigm of performance/luxury
One of the best performing cars I ever owned. Had the sport package and could not believe the superb handling...especially around curves and corners. It's best to accellerate on corners as the car seems to bight the road with tremendous control and grip. Traded up to 2003 745. Loved my 5 series but not the styling of the new 2004 model.
A blast to drive, expensive upkeep
Bought this car as a CPO in 2002 when it had <20k mi on it, replacing my 93 325i. Pluses: A joy to drive, no question. Can be thrown into corners almost with impunity. Great touring car, can drive all day w/no fatigue. Excellent sound system. Classy exterior design. Power out the wazoo. Legendary braking. Downsides: Eats tires even with proper inflation (stagger prevents rotation) - typ. 15-20k on rear, 30k front (all-seasons). Expensive routine mx. Expensive non-routine mx. Cupholders are for decoration only - go aftermarket or avoid drinks. CD changer not bump tolerant.
High milage 528I
We bought this car in 2004 for it's styling and performance. It's the wife's 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.
All Day Amusement Park!
I absolutely love the 540i 6speed. It has tremendous torque for when I want to go fast, but is elegant and civilized when I have the two infants in the back. I enjoy doing the work myself so labor cost is not an issue, but parts can be more expensive than some other makes. If you're an enthusiast like me, you'll love this car.
I can't part with it.
I've owned a 99' 540 iA w/ Sport Pkg. for 4 years now. Had a 95' 540 before that. I've been looking hard for the last couple of months for a new car replacement. I can't find anything I like better...except a 2003 BMW 540. So the decision was made...I'm keeping the 99' for my wife...ordered a new 2003 for myself. I couldn't be happier...I just wish I'd kept my 95' too. They've all been exceptional rides in every detail.
Good commuter so far
I've always liked this body style- more so than the new 5 series. I found this grey one in fine shape at 88K miles. It handles very nicely and is so sneaky quiet I've got to be careful not to speed too much. I got 29.5 mpg going to Florida over holidays and was so shocked I checked it again for 2 more tanks of gas. Same, over 29 mpg each time. Wow. I've had to replace 2 power steering hoses and oil filter manifold gasket for $800. All else is good so far at 91,000 miles. Car alarm goes off sometimes needlessly which is annoying. I'd like to to disable it. Motor on.
TERRIBLE RELIABILITY
I bought a "certified" BMW and had NOTHING but problems since I bought it. I have had three different severe problems with the cooling system alone and this is with a car with only 50,000 miles on it. All three cooling system problems happened three weeks after my "certified" maintenance expired and each cost approx $1000 to fix and left me stranded. This car drives nice and is fast and all but mechanically it is a nightmare and it totally unreliable. And again, it was a "certified" car when I bought it. BEWARE: BMW service like brakes and regular service is EXPENSIVE! $1000 just for front brakes which you need every 25,000 miles or so. I am not happy and getting rid of the car.
Never Again!
Junk!!! This is my second BMW and definately my last. My last BMW 325i was very expensive to maintain but more reliable than this! I bought this car new and since owning it some of the repairs have been 2 water pumps, power locks, sensors replaced, transmission replaced (almost $10,000), a wheel bearing, and the list goes on! The regular maintenance is a nightmare. I've spent over $1000 at the dealer for front brake work. My friend owns a 1999 Volvo S80 T6 with more miles and his car has been great! Regular maintenance is low and his car is very reliable. The T6 (twin-turbo) blows away BMW's V8. The Volvo S80 T6 is a much better choice!
528iT
great alternative to a mini van and SUV
First BMW - Aquired Loyalty : 10
It is just unbelievable. Handling is just perfect. This car is such a solid performer, that it makes me smile every day when I have to drive it to work. I am against buying used cars, but after test drive I changed my mind on this one.
Driving is fun again
What a pleasure it is to drive again. This car preforms like a precision machine with creature comforts beyond my wildest dreams. All of that and reasonable operating costs too. It was a financial leap worth making,a true definition of the word value.
Worst car I've ever had
Drives great when its not being repaired which is every other week, I'll take a Honda with all upgrades over an over priced over rated BMW. Sell before warranty expires or be ready to empty your wallet.
Un-Beemer-Lievable
Outstanding handling; beautiful, classic design, reliability, outstanding service.....and those are the low points. I can't wait to purchase my next Beemer; hopefully the new 7 or the newest 5 series.
99 528i
Bought this vehicle used in 07 with 85K. This vehicle was been a joy to own. No major issues at this time just the basic maint. I know it's just a matter of time. Might have to sell soon to avoid costly repair bills.
NICE CAR
HI THIS IS KOLYA I GOT MY BMW JUST RIGHT NOW IT IS NICE CAR AND BEUTIFUL TO DRIVE IT.I HILY RECOMEDET FOR EVERY BODY.
Fun to drive, not to pay for
Torque out the kazoo, lots of grunt for passing, throw it in to corners as hard as you want. I regularly drove the car on 600-mi trips and was very comfortable at the end. However, exceptionally expensive maintenance has been a downer. I spent over $3500 (incl $650 to replace a window motor) in 8 mos and could be spending another $1500 as the car has >100K mi. Will not buy another BMW w/o warranty (and probably not with warranty until iDrive tumor is removed).
A Fond Farewell
Purchased CPO in 2001. Only had a few problems in my 9.5 years. Performance and build quality is unbeatable. Just sold the car as maintenance is getting expensive on a 12 year old BMW. My all in cost to drive the car (including repairs but excluding routine maintenance) was less than $3,600 per year. With a set of snow tires this car did great in the snow. Car was expensive upfront but more than worth it over time. I miss this car already. I only wish the new 535 wagon wasn't plagued with problems or I would not hesitate to buy another.
Love it, but ...
Love the performance, the look and the handling of the car. So much fun to drive. Really enjoy leaving others at the stop light, the car moves away to effortless. Disappointed with the reliability. Both rear power windows broke, one after another, had also problems with the windshield molding deteriorating, water pump was an expensive repair.
Awesome car
Awesome car. One of my favorite cars that I own and I have owned many. Great family car to pick up kids from school and fun to drive after hours
Best choice of what's out there
I shopped around between passat,a6,forester,e-class. i narrowed it down to the a6, 528, & forester. I really liked the a6, but West Broad VW/AUDI serviced my vw also was the only place that serviced audi here in richmond va. so being as they screwed me already on the vw I was trading in, I opted for the 528. Driving this car is such a joy. It's not the most mechanically sound auto. My car is about 5 yrs old now & things are starting to give. My powersteering died & ABS cpu died. I've spent about $2500 in repairs after i purchased, but it's a bmw, it's got character.
awesome car
Bought it used and am very pleased with the car. My first few tanks of gas I averaged 25.8 MPG, added a K&N air filter and its up to 27.1 MPG with some added power.
The Best Yet !
I bought my BMW 528i certified pre- owned. After it was checked over completely from the start I felt great driving it off the lot. I continue to drive with confidene. Very reliable and adored by all people a shocked to hear it's not brand new. I get offers every week to buy the car from me. I owned 3 BMW 3 series but the 528i is the best yet !
1999 BMW appraisal
I am in real estate and needed a car that was reliaable and comfortable, I got more, it looks good and is fun to drive with enough comfort and more get- up-and-go than anyone needs. It is silver in color. 4-door 528i leather seats that are heated, automatic seat adjustment and power moon roof.
Upgrade to newer year
I just moved up from my 97 to a 99 528IA. So sweet. I was looking at new Nissan Altima's, used Volvo S-80's, and Infinity G35's. Bottom line - they are not the ultimate drivig machine. Buy a ceritifed used vehicle, beat on the dealer, do your homework on price (TMV with Edmunds and look at Car & Drivers websote as well as Kelly Blue Book on line), sell your used car, and take advantage of BMW financing (I'm in at 3.9 60 months, 100%). You will not be sorry.