Used 2002 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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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.
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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.
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
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!
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.
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.
great car!
avid driver, 05/13/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
shopped them all...drove them all...almost went for the G35, but in the end there is nothing to compare with bmw. 530i with premium and sport packages sends the price up, however there is nothing BORING about this sedan. i selected the 5 speed tranny (wife was a bit hesitant) but now glad we went this route. performance, comfort, luxury in one great looking package. replaced an SUV with a sedan version of our porsche!
Why did I wait so long...
New Bimmer Lover, 06/23/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Toiling along with domestic sedans and import SUVs, I waited too long to shop for a BMW sedan. Better late than never. The 530 is a great car. Fun to drive is an understatement. I tested all of the 5 series sedans, and the 530 was the goldilocks of the bunch for me. 525 a little too weak, 540 a little too strong (for my needs - it is a great car, but I live a few thousand miles from the autobahn). My 530 has the sport and premium packages, which I highly recommend. This is without a doubt the most responsive car I have ever driven. Safety features are very comforting.
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
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
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 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.
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.
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!
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!!!!!)
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
expensive fun
kirkd1, 02/01/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My expectations of this car have been met. It's fun to drive and is the most comfortable seat in the house. My bad back hurts in just about everything except my sport seats. I hate the noise I now have from the tires that started at about 10k miles and its getting worse. Those low profile tires arent all bad though helping turn-in that makes me smile when I need a little rush. Im disappointed in the slipping clutch of the A/T. The upgraded sport steering wheel is mainly plastic and it stares me in the face. The in-cabin entertainment I paid extra for could sound better and have an in-dash changer.
BMW Still Top Performer in Class
gneissgod, 07/07/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The BMW 540i is still the best in class. As a luxury vehicle it has every amenity that anyone would want to have. As a sport sedan it has power and is as agile as a cat. The sound system is spectacular but you really don't need one because listening to the engine as you drive is music to a true driver's ears.
Only thing better is an M5
beat, 03/02/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Incredible. BMW has created a 911 with four doors and a comfortable ride. Last year of the current car, sold a 98 to buy the 02. Can't say enough about it.
excellent
jogkjfiufuif, 04/07/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the best car I've ever owned. This makes the 2nd 540 I've owed and I can not wait for the next version in 2003.
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.
Don't make 'em like this any more :)
K Johnstone, 03/25/2009
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Every once in a while things come together and result in a special product. The BMW E39 is an example of such. - The 540iA Sport Package is a near ideal blend of sports sedan and luxury cruiser. Build quality is superior to modern BMW's with thicker body work metal and orange peel free paint. Hoping that the new F60 will match it - somehow I doubt it. The E39 is I think that special.
FANTASTIC VEHICLE !!!!!!!!
DANIEL, 07/14/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THE 540IA BASICALLY DRIVES ITSELF. IT JUST FLOWS FROM ONE GEAR TO THE NEXT AND THE BRAKES CAN STOP YOU ON A DIME. I WAS A BIT APPREHENSIVE ABOUT PAYING SO MUCH FOR A CAR, BUT WHEN I DROVE THE CAR AND READ THE MANUAL AND SAW HOW MANY FEATURES ARE ON THE CAR, I KNEW THE MONEY WAS WELL INVESTED. THE CAR IS EXTREMELY QUIET AND SOLIDLY BUILT. I GUESS THE ONLY DOWNSIDE, IN MY OPINION, IS THE GAS MILEAGE. BE PREPARED TO MAKE FREQUENT STOPS AT THE PUMP, ESPECIALLY IF YOU USE THE SPORT OR MANUAL MODES A LOT.
My First BMW - The 525IA
Stan Davidson, 07/31/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am a car lover, and own 4 cars. The BMW is the most refined of any car I have ever owned. Excellent service with only oil changes and routine maintenance required. The comfort and handling are very good.
A 5 that's almost a 10
BoyOboi78, 08/25/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
had an Acura TL but didn't want another one. had a 99 Audi A6 and had nothing but problems, so no more Audi's for me . tried out a Mercedes Benz E320, nice car but didn't seem to ride as nice, handle as well, or be smoother or quieter then the 5, plus the price and value didn't seem to be worth it. The Lexus GS300 was also another nice car i drove, but was to underdamped in my opinion and didn't feel as refined as in closing the doors or the trunk like the solidness of the 5 series. Jaguar S type, well basically build in partner ship with ford and kinda screamed cheap from a few of its parts. the 5 series has the right combination of an upscale luxury car
Make a good choice
frankzm, 09/16/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Over audi a6, lexus gs300, I chose BMW 530ia with prem&sports pkg. The engine is more than adequate with rich torque across the band for everyday commute and some fun in between. The sports seats with the thigh support is a plus for 6+footers like myself. sport suspension is a little firmer than standard but still provides comfortable ride and minimal bodyroll in corners. Interior and exterior designs are one of the classics. And the smooth inline6 which hums the best engine music in its class. Of course, you can hardly hear it in low rpms. overall, it's a joy to drive and ride.I often have to beg my fiancee(The car was bought for her)for the keys.
Fun fun fun til wife takes the bmw away
shortyusa, 05/28/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 540i drives like its on rail road tracks. Fast, takes curves like no other sedan. Build is great. Sound of the engine can make a grown man cry with joy. Cost is only about 10k too high. But there is no car that comes close for less than 80k. Why could BMW not make a better cup holder?? Come on Herman it just has to hold a darn cup from McDonalds!!
one word: problems
DallasDriver, 08/09/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the car (525i with M sports package manual) when I actually get to drive it and when it works. It spent more time in the service dept than with me (hence the low mileage). The svc. dept. rep. knows me on a first name basis. Took it twice for the air bag light; once for a problem with the driver's seat; 4 times for a clutch problem (which has not been solved yet). I'm in the process of looking for a new car. Definitely NOT a BMW.
The ultimate machine ?
MDontheroad, 02/27/2005
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Not a good car to have if you are busy and using it as much as I do. The radio goes out on/off. The seats wear you out after a long day and the a/c has its own temper. What really discourages me is that the radiator went out after 47,000 miles. If you need reliability don't get here.
BEST BMW I HAVE EVER OWNED
GREG KUHNLE, 07/25/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A WONDERFUL DRIVING AND LOOKING SEDAN, THIS CAR TURNS HEADS,AND MAKES YOU LOOK FOR THE LONG WAY HOME.THE 5SP SHIFTS VERY SMOOTHLY AND ON A RECENT 1000 MILE TRIP THE CAR ACHIEVED 28 MILES TO THE GALLON! THE CAR HAS A FANTASTIC STEREO SYSTEM {I ORDERED THE PREMIUM SOUND PACKAGE}AND PICKING THE CAR UP IN EUROPE WAS AN EXPERIENCE IN ITSELF.
Excellent
jiggly, 10/25/2003
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is the best i've ever owned! It's my first BMW and i must say that i'm extremely impressed. The ride is exemplary, the engine quiet and smooth and the performance very good. I have recommended this car to many of my friends who are looking for a new car. They have all been just as 'in awe' as i was and still am. You wont be dissapointed i you choose this car!
540iA
Bill20, 07/26/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this 540iA with sports package in Jan 2001. Car is a wonderful machine to drive, even if it is a compact car. Being a compact car, it is a bit cramped inside, but on the other hand it is a smaller car, and easier to maneuver in traffic. Mine is a 2001, but even so, being a 282 hp machine, you really need to be careful with the gas pedal, or else it's going to fly on you in the next tree. Basically the car is a 8 cylinder compact car, with wonderful handling.
my first BMW
bn_shopn, 03/04/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Unbelieveable!
You Are What You Drive!
Stetamrunning, 01/06/2004
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 2002 BMW 530i with Premium / Sports Package and add the Steptronic Automatic is all the car one could ever ask for! This is my 7th BMW over the years. My Wife thinks I was nuts to purchase another one until she drove this wonderful machine. Now we fight over the keys!
Love this car!
gkatlanta, 12/27/2005
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned three previous BMWs including an E39 Wagon but nothing has come close to the performance and handling of this car. Definitely a wolf in sheep's clothing. Wonderful to drive on a long winding road. Not a single problem since I've had this car. I still love driving this car every day.
Nice Machine
J Lynch, 07/27/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is tight, quiet and a pleasure to drive.
540ia
raul, 04/17/2002
2002 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
best car ever had
Everything perfect so far...
Snow Queen, 05/18/2004
2002 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Despite my reluctance to move from a Z3 to the 530i sedan, I feel like I've sacrificed just a small amount of performance that is far outweighed by the luxuries and amenities of this outstanding car. I might beat others out of a light a little slower now, but not by much, and I'm doing it in comfort. This is a grown-up, safe, well-built car that I can still view as a toy.