Used 2002 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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Exceeds Expectations
Fraser Katz, 04/26/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is one great machine 530i automatic. Quiet, seamless balance of power and handeling in a classic package. It really is the "ultimate driving machine". It puts you in a different world where driving is really fun.
Awsome 2002 BMW 540 i 6 Speed
hkochat, 01/08/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Absolutely stunning performance. One of BMWs innovative performance vehicle for anyone who enjoys manual transmission
2002 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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Best bmw I've owned
Bigdkbimmer, 11/14/2020
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned five BMWs and I'm 24 years old so far the E39 530i 5 speed manual is he single best one I've had the car maybe nearly 20 years old but it's still a solid as a rock mine has 270,000 miles on it in the six months I've owned it I've had to replace the front radiator do to a hairline crack valve cover and Gasket front struts and AC blower fan but for all in all to be a 20 year old car that's not too bad and the build quality is amazing definitely the best built BMW ever made
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
The Fantastic 530i A
langar, 05/21/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have always wanted a beemer and finally got my new 530i w/A, SP, PP, Kalahari Beige, in October and have never looked back. I have never driven a better car. Handling is fantastic and comfort on long drive is amazing. It is great to drive on the back country roads where you can experience the great handling and performance. I have 11,000 trouble free miles and even get great gas mileage on extended road trips. 1000 miles to Branson resulted in 29 mpg. which is great when you consider its performance.
Thanks Consumer Reports
bmwfan, 07/02/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was really close to buying a Mercedes CLK until I read Consumer Reports' review on the 530i. This car is a dream come true - fun to drive, comfortable, fabulous looking and fast with decent fuel economy. The sport package adds icing to the cake. The 5-speed can be challenging at first, but it is so responsive that it is fun to shift. The buying experience was great. I can't say enough good about this car.
My 530spt pkg
ps, 07/16/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased the 530 with spt pkg and steptronic transmission in 4/02. My wife, who doesn't care much about driving a car, loves this one. Handling is excellent. The color, Titanium Silver, is beautiful.
5 speed Sport Sedan
Analog, 04/30/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The BMW 530i 5 speed manual is an unusual combination of contradictory elements, luxury, sports car and sedan all wraped into one - excelling in multiple personalities and demanding in it's attention . The manual stick is by far the most demanding I have driven. The car and I are still bondinng after almost 3000 miles and will so.
Cheetah on the autobahn
Jim Reed, 05/28/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is impeccable in quality, fit and finish and a pleasure to drive. She easily accelerates to 125 mph and continues to climb effortlessly from 140. I pushed the accelerate button from 140 and it took off like most cars do from 65. The factory limit is 156 mph. At this speed the car is very stable although imperfections in the roadway, absence of road crowning and non-banked curves on the autobahn become apparent. At 156 mph she turns 4500 rpm, well below the peak hp of 5500 and below the redline of 5750. Theoretically the car could do 190 but you would need a good road. Write me if you have any doubts about the thrill of driving this car.
What's not to love
enzoandpiero, 10/25/2004
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
a perfect sport sedan. Our 4th BMW and they just keep getting better. No problems whatsoever. Great dealer support and attitude.
530i
runna252, 05/04/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car! Drove High perfomance police vehicles, Acuras etc, nothing on the road compares to the the 5 ( my 2nd one)
2002 530i, a fabulous ride
Kodachromeguy, 07/30/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This BMW 530i is so much fun! It's a remarkable combination of comfortable ride and great handling. I don't feel like I'm in a mushmobile (typical Accord, Lexus, Infinity, etc.,), and I can actually feel the road surface through the steering wheel. But yet, it's also comfortable on a long road trip. My car has the standard suspension, so I can't say if the sport version is much harsher. In 8 months, this car has been absolutely flawless. I highly recommend the adjustable lumbar supports in the seats, an inexpensive option. And the Xenon headlights are great for those of us whose vision is deteriorating with age.
Even God could not have created this car
Joe Kimber, 08/04/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first BMW i have owned a Benz, Audi's and a few Jags. Right now i own a BMW 530i my wife drives a BMW X5 4.4i and we also have a new Porsche 911 turbo (this is also a nice car but not good for everyday use). But none of them have even come close to how much fun the 530i is. The outside is the best looking car i have seen in years. I thought that the 5 series was getting old. Untill they brought out the 530i in 2001. If you are interested in buying this car dont buy it unless you get the sports package. The 17's are amazing. The steptronic transmission is also very responsive.
Beyond Expectations
mxk05, 05/07/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first BMW. The 530i (SP/PP) has exceeded my expectations. It handles superbly on highways and side roads with comfort and responsiveness. It's a finely tuned and compact automotive package. Love the looks and the interior cabin. Driving is fun again.
Little things mean a lot
Robert Schaich, 08/13/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Cup holders suck, the germans must not drink coffee or cokes.
Too much fun!?
No. 1 bmw fan, 06/10/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Here's what I can offer to anyone looking to buy: The car phone reception is so-so and the installed easthetic is less you expect. Pass on it. Expect alot of looks. It doesn't scream expensive like a Mercedes, but people in the know know what they're looking at. The back seats are more comfortable than the fronts of most vehicles. The front seats are the most comfortable you'll ever experience. Self-levelling headlamps, lowering mirror when reversing, window shades and beeping when the car has something it wants to make you aware of. A big cash outlay and the feeling it was worth every penny.
Awful Experience!!!
JakesShop, 08/16/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a 2002 530i - sport-premium package. The first 4,000 miles were like a dream ... incredible. Then began the vibration, and the "shimmie"ing of the steering wheel. The dealership tells me that is normal for a sports-premium 530i. I can't beieve it. This car shakes! You can feel the vibration in your pant legs ... even on the smoothest roads. I have loved BMWs for a long time. This one, my very first, has been such an awful experience, I can barely look at BMWs anymore!!! Hate is a strong word. It's the only one that fits my experience to this point. BMW - if you rad this please help!!!
wow!
edandruth, 08/25/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
this is not a car.....its an automobile! It handles unbelievably smooth, very comfortable and excellerates effortlessly. This is truly the finest machine I have ever driven. Unfortunately, I bought it for my wife who only allows me to drive it on weekends!
Awesome Car!!
3sons66, 05/13/2009
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sport Wagon (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Although I've only had this car for 3 months and 5K miles..so far so good. Weak spots are definitely the cooling system (water pump, pullies) and leaking valve covers. Although if you can turn a wrench...fairly easy to DIY and numerous forums that cover DIY's. Car absolutely hauls...one of the fastest "family" cars I've ever owned. Purchased for $12200 with 50,XXX miles on the odometer. Overall, very happy with this car. As for fuel mileage, I expected much worse since I can't keep my right foot off the floor board. City / Town is 19.9 average and recently got 24.6 on a 300 mile trip with the set at 80 mph. Nice surprise since most were claiming much lower figures. Stereo stinks.
The Silver Bullet
fdelmonte, 04/19/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the best car I have ever owned! Powerful, luxurious, stylish, fun, (did I mention fun?), delightful. There are not enough superlatives to describe the wonder & engineering on this car. For the acceleration & power of the car, excellent gas mileage (18 city, 21 freeway) and it's not through the break-in period (remember, this is a 8-cylinder wonder - I was only getting 18.5 mpg in a Volvo S80 T6 - there are no comparisons between the cars). Yes, the cupholders are worthless, but that is not the reason you buy a BMW. A must have if you truly appreciate well engineered cars.
New 525i
gms, 09/11/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first Bimmer and I am quickly finding out way consumer report has rated this vechile the best value in its price range. This machine is responsive and quick! The automatic steptronic transmission is probally by far the best way to feel the solid platform. Besides, the transmission makes this car extremely fun to drive. If I had any complaints, it would be that I expected more comfort when snuggled in the bucket seat. In this department the Volvo S80 has the Bimmer beat (we also own a 2001 S80.) Other than that, if you are looking for fantistic machine that is blast to drive, go for any model in the 5 series line up.
Fun to Drive Expensive to Own
Dick Bange, 12/22/2008
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sport Wagon (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Love to drive this vehicle bought new. However, have spent over $12,000 repairing everything from A/C, water pump, CD player, starter and thermostat several times. Won't buy another one.
My 5-Speed Wagon
Sharkey, 01/13/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Apparently a stick-shift BMW 5-series is a tough sell in Los Angeles. So, I landed a good deal on the car. It is equipped with both the Sport and Premium package, Xenon headlights, and Park Distance Control. After owning Japanese luxury cars, you notice the lack of amenities like a center console, extra sunvisors with extensions (the 5-series sunvisors can't really be utilized to shade the driver's side window), an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and an in-dash CD changer. The sport seats can be tough on your left thigh when clutching. All that aside, it's the best-handling, highest quality wagon I've ever owned.
Beautiful!
jiggly, 08/22/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
The title says it all
Two BMW 5-Series in our Garage
David/Nina, 03/17/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We currently own a 1998 528ia and 2001 530ia. Nothing is like these cars on the road. Both are reliable, handsome and FUN TO DRIVE. The 528 is a little underpowered but the 530 is a Blast!
good
anthony d 1927, 03/16/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
i liked the car
Death by cupholder rage
thassarodge, 01/24/2004
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Best car there is. I bought it in Germany, took it down the Autobahn, got it up to 140 mph. Car sat on the road rock solid and seemed to say to me "Now what?" It wanted to go faster but speed limiter said no. This car is awesome and the curves are gorgeous. The blue color looks wonderful at night, but kind of blah purply in bright sunlight. The seats are comfortable and the instrumentation is logically placed. Only bad thing is the cupholders are absolute crap. Won't even hold a soda can - BMW should not have put them in if they couldn't design them right. One of mine is alread broken from holding my narrow-based coffee cup.
BMW 5
tim dreyer, 03/01/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Smooth, quiet and powerful. Excellent gas mileage and ride
Disappointing
Anonymous, 02/05/2006
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
Given the uniformly positive reviews on the e39 body 5-series, I was prepared to love this car. But it has been so disappointing that I'm considering selling it after five months of ownership. The problem is simple -- and no it's not the cupholders, which I agree are flimsy but they don't bother me. It's the constant and apparently unfixable creaks, squeaks, and rattles from the doors, the rear hatch, the seats, etc. (I've had it in at the dealer several times.) Also disappointing is the junky sound of the doors when slammed closed. Of the about 10 cars I've owned, this is one of the biggest bucket of bolts of the lot. If I could go back in time, I would NOT have bought this car.
Family liability plus fun car to drive
Matthew Kim, 09/16/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent automobile, fun car to drive and family friendly. I had a Volvo V70 previously and I personally like BMW better. More fun to drive around, more power...
Impeccable German engineering
bimmerphile, 09/21/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my 530i/5-sp with PP/Xenon/fold-down seat for 18 months, and it has been a real blast. Contrary to what other reviewers might have suggested, the standard non-sports suspension on these cars are extremely capable, and does ride on rails on experienced hands. The clutch is a piece of car(again, for those who are trained). The engine pitch is so sweet and smooth that you can upshift and rev- match telepathically. Heel-to-toe can be a bit difficult, unless the brake is almost fully depressed. In addition, the non-sports car is so QUIET that I can hear the fast breathing of the passengers! :-)
Jim's 530i
JamesHBaker, 09/27/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is great fun to drive! I have driven more miles since I have had my 530i than I normally do. I must say that I have enjoyed every minute. If you buy a BMW, and have the time, I suggest that you take delivery at the BMW Performance Center in SC. I think it was one of the best days of my life.
Wow, what a car!
Styve, 09/28/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best car that I have ever driven (and I have driven a lot). Fast, great handling, looks great, and room for the family. What more could one want?
I'd buy it again
sezme2, 10/01/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My next automobile will be the M5 vs. S500, until then, this machine is more than adequate. I'd love a roadster type, but they're too impractical for a family-man. I chose this car for it's stellar passive safety ratings (checkout hywsafety. org) and its ability to handle precisely to actively avoid a collision. My wife had not been an auto-phile, but this car has made her passionate about driving.
BEWARE!!
Dan Phillips, 06/14/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got my 540--at first overjoyed, then probs began. Clutch issues, then a REPLACED trans. at 18K mi.!! For a loaner, I repeatedly got a Hundai!! Astounding!! It happened to my brother, too. BMW never showed me any appreciation of my investment or expectation. Insulting! a I've heard it before, now I know. Be careful. New clutch for 2 grand??? And still the trans. never worked right. It became pathetic. Ended lease early.
Save your money
TeeMo, 10/21/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Reading the other reviews,I wonder if I was sold a completely different car. First,the seats are so deeply contoured that the left bolster interferes with comfortable shifting. My leg goes to sleep after about 30 minutes. If I get the steering wheel in a comfortable place, I can no longer see the instrument panel. The shifter is sloppy and the clutch has no definite point of engagement. The upper gear ratios are so close that it is hard to tell which gear I am in. Combined with that is the fact that 1st gear is so tall that I am at redline not much above 20 mph.
Unparalleled Driving Experience
eyemac, 04/03/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2002 525ia w/sport and premium packages, steptronic transmission-this car is flawless. the exterior is as appealing as any car in its class or size, the ride is a notch or two above the Lexus. the seat's lumbar support (you GOTTA buy the premium and sport packages) makes you feel like you're in a cockpit. when you "open it up", you don't hear road noise until 90 mph. finally, this car turns heads. i bought (i don't "rent" autos) the rare slate green exterior with the stone green trim, and women, as well as men compliment me daily. p.s. buy a radar detector. you will test the cars limits. **hint** the car won't let you down.
Awesome
BHB, 02/27/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Greatest Car Ever
Excellent after all these years!
codysd, 01/09/2009
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have had ours over 3 years, purchased CPO. We have had several very high end cars, a new BMW 530 sedan now, etc., but this 2002 wagon is the one we will always keep. It is virtually perfect in every way, looks very sporty, drives like a rocket, is incredibly reliable and we NEVER get tired of driving it. It is a keeper!
Excellent car
alan147, 02/27/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is by far the most exciting vehicle to drive. The acceleration is exceptional and clean crisp handling. I own both infiniti and honda, and reliability was a big concern. But after 10,000 miles, I can safely said the BMW has improved its build quality comparable to the Japanese car makers.
Best car I've owned
Poway driver, 12/07/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wonderful car. Great handling which is especially noticable at higher speeds compared to other cars. Braking is excellent. Acceleration is appropriate for engine size. Fuel economy better than expected.
530 Wow
kbkannady, 12/17/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
1st BMW. The car has more than met our expecations. Powerful, comfortable and good looking. I bought the 530 for my wife's 50th birthday and did I get this one right!
Great car
Peterbmw, 03/01/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The transmission gave me a lot of problems when I hit 4k miles. I was not able to go reverse. It took me about 4 weeks to get a service date. The service was good, but it was another week for them to repalce the transmissoin. Now, I can go into reverse, but i think the guy who did my car must have had a little alignment problem because it's difficult to get into 3rd and 4th gear now.
Great Car
Aiblinger, 06/25/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I waited until Feb 2001 to order my 530i with the 5spd. I didn't want a sunroof so I had to go to the 5 Series Program Manger at BMWNA to get what I wanted. It's a great car, just plain fun to drive. You're always looking for the winding road. The torque is ride across the power band.
Love the car
Dan, 02/18/2008
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2nd BMW and I'll run this one until the wheels fall off. Styling is classic. The car looks great even at 6 years old. Finish is still top notch. Fun and comfortable to drive
I love my BMW, but...
spectacular, 05/21/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought a 525IA, and feel like I got a great deal. In hindsight, the 525 at 184 HP might be a hair underpowered, so my only regret is that I didn't go for the 530. In the end, I'm extremely happy to own this incredible machine, and love to drive it!!!!! (P.S. Chicks dig it too!!!!!)
530i best car you can have!!!!
eduardo, 01/12/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Im happy with my 530i premium, sport, this is a excellent car, fuel economy in the highway i got 30 mpg, at 85 mph, and this is a safest, powerful, elegant, and the best on resale value, if you like the 5 series go for the 530i, the 525i the engine is to small for the body and weight of the car.
Get this car
wagonman, 01/24/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is awesome. Smooth and powerful. Sports car lurking under a sleek station wagon. Get the 5 speed manual transmission to experience BMW technology.
The best
headcracker, 06/30/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I tried everything in this class, and a manual was a must. The A6 biturbo, very nice but not an equal. The M5, well I still think about it. 500 miles a tank on the road. With the fold down rear seat it does better than I expected. Could not however have dealt with the trunk without the fold down rear seats. Did I buy this car to drink while driving!!!!!!!! I really don't care about the cupholders. Simply the best 4 door car in the world. Gas mileage is much better than anticipated, car now 10 months old and I have averaged 21.8 overall.
BMW 540i 6 Speed - The best sports sedan
Peter J, 01/28/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The BMW 5 series has always been excellent and the current model introduced in 1997 is no exception. This is a quiet sophisticated car that has amazing performance. The 6 Speed manual transmission can be a little baulky when cold but once she is warmed, this car is phenomenal. As is the case with most BMW's (I have owned 6) speed is achieved with little fuss and the turbine like drive in the back never gives up, right up to maximum speed you can get away with. The car is, without doubt, one of the finest cars on the road. The interior is a little dated now, but this car is still a winner with build quality to match.
Look'n Good
Robbiee69, 04/29/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All I can say about my new Beemer is that, "I can't stop driving it." I love the looks the feel and the exhilaration of driving this machine. I would have liked to get the 530 for the extra pep, but opted for the options and really don't regret it. Not as much power but I can live with it. The ride is so smooth that, I often find myself at 80mph, thinking I'm going around 65mph. Over all I like everything about the car.