Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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3 time winner AGAIN!!!
3 Beemer guy, 01/04/2020
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This was the first BMW I bought after having 3 Acuras. way back when in 2005. There is no comparison! Since the 530i I've had a 2008 535i which was incredible to drive with staggered wheels etc....but pretty firm for a cross country trip. A rocket to drive and without the run-flats much more comfortable. Now drive a 2013 528 in addition to the 2003 530 which I inherited back from my son who had it for 4 years. Lots of repairs and new transmission at 100,000 miles....but now have 120,000 miles and this thing (530i) is still a mix of practical and joy/fun to drive. Not too big, not to small, not to firm, not to soft etc. Almost perfect! So after having 3 Beemers….I'm keeping this till it dies. Even my wife can tell the difference between this and say a Lexus or Acura. Who needs all the tech of these new cars? 30-33 mph highway......wow for a heavy and very solid car. Engine/transmission combination is among the best all time.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Zoom...zoom...BEEMER
Eugene Svistun, 12/11/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Do Europeans have use for cup holders at all? Or they just making a little fun of us? PLEASE-SOMEBODY TELL THEM GERMANS TO DESIGN MORE USEFUL CUPHOLDERS!!!!!!!
2003 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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- 525i SedanMSRP: $2,49574 mi away
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Great car when not in shop
mathwonk, 08/03/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is beautiful comfortable powerful solidly made and enjoyable. The only problem is I am a longtime Honda owner. I admit a Honda does not compare in acceleration, stopping power, beauty or safety to this BMW, but on the other hand, essentially nothing ever goes wrong on a Honda either, and that has me spoiled. The beemer was in the shop at least 7 times for a leak that occurred in any hard rain, and has only been ok in that department since the drought made rain less common. Two days ago my wife was driving down the highway and the wheels locked up at 50 mph and refused to roll. She skidded to a stop in the road and could not even get into the breakdown lane.
Character and elegance
Ferran, 11/26/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Excellent value. This car is worth every penny.
Everything I wanted it to be...
Pej, 07/07/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I test drove this car back in April and fell in love... Unfortunately I couldn't stomach the $65k price tag. On the test drive I was having so much fun, the salesman had to remind me that I was doing 120 MPH!!! The car was so smooth and glued to the road it was as if I was drive 40... The recent reduction in price brought the price of the 540i down into my price range, so I couldn't resist. I am very happy with my purchase of my first BMW.
Why I Love my 530
Greg Stewart, 11/04/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I ordered the blue water mettalic with the grey montana leather. It goes quick and the stereo is nice, though I should have ordered the 6 cd changer
Not another BMW
ymmot, 11/14/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Avoid buying this car. Have had nothing but trouble since the day we bought it. Headlight system has had to be replaced twice.
Performance with a Price
Bill, 06/27/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful
Just a splendid, intoxicating driving experience that had the hair on my head tingling for the first 2 months that I drove... BUT, OMG tires wore out at 15K, stabilizer bar, computer problems, display board problems surfaced at 3 yrs. $5K in repairs later (out of warranty on the listed items) and a few other "normal" expensive repairs and I am ready to sell it for a more reliable performance vehicle. Just frustrating to have to endure the financial and disappointing pain a $50,000 car should NOT give you. Be cautious when you purchase this one.
love
tom williams, 12/10/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love this car because it handles the best i have never driven a car so exciing this car is awesome.
Sheryl
Sheryl, 08/06/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Car!!! I love this car....Family loves car and husband too
BMW Quality
Roc, 12/29/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car corners great. It is the most impressive feature then comes ride and handling.
d
SKD, 08/06/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very Good itis diffetly the ultimat driving mahine. Very littl cain noise
Ultimate Addiction
Daniel, 10/31/2005
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The BMW 5 Series (E39) is great - its a pleasure to drive; I have on several ocassions got into the car - not because I had somewhere to go, but because I wanted to drive that baby. Cornering is amazing, the aggressive suspension will hug hairpin turns, body roll is almost non existent, I feel safe accelerating through the turns; and what's more even my passengers feel secure, the brakes stop the E39 so quickly you have to watch your rear view mirrors because not many cars will stop as effectively. Key in ignition and the car recalls my preset steering, mirror and seat positions; Yes! It's my car!! Almost aero road noise. At night the orange cock-pit lighting is just right. Well done BMW, kudos.
Lexus Upgrade
panoral, 08/14/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After trading in a '99 GS400,the BMW is like another world.I took it easy for the recommended 1500 miles and got over 25mpg on a round trip of 2000 miles-at an average speed of over 65mph. The new car is quieter than the Lexus,especially at speed where the L had much more wind noise.The styling is much more appealing than the rather bland L. The only minor gripe is lack of space to store things in the console-the L had very good accomodations here. Safety seems worlds above and I had no fears about driving at 60+ in torrential downpours on the Interstate-visibility and tractin were astounding.
rafic 5 serious
rafic, 04/01/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love this car i lovee the handling the performance confort every thing i like the new 5 serious way better then my causins 2003 lexus es 330
The best car I ever have
dlee9612, 05/08/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the first German car I own. I totally like its performance and handling. Unlike any Japanese and American cars I had before, the BMW 5 is so fun to drive. It feels solid, comfortable, and excellent build quality. It is worth the money I paid.
Best value on the road
blp, 08/17/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best performing auto ever owned. Handling, braking, economy and safety in a complete package. Absolute fun to drive.
this car rocks
chassypoof, 03/08/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am so in love with this car. had Lexus, Had Acura. Neither comes close to the quality. Forget the high price, buy one now or be a loser!!!!
THE BEST SEDAN
griggsbarn, 08/17/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th BMW and my second 5- series. Although it is underpowered for me,it is a good family car. My 330cic was the keeper.
Great Car
Anthony H Jessen Jr, 07/31/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Was able to get in on the factory incentives at the last minute and find the model I wanted. This car is esentially eveything I wanted in a sprots sedan.
An Awesome car beats the 2004 model 5
charlieF, 11/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is nothing short of amazing, the ride makes you literally feel like you floating in a leer jet. The build quality doesn't get any better than this, I mean there is hardly any plastic used in this car whats so ever it's all high quality vinyl. The leather is so buttery soft makes me never want to exit the car. I had previously owned a Mercedes before this, this 5 Series compared to the Mercedes is like night and day. Mercedes needs to learn what quality and reliability is then they will have more customers, like BMW..
No complaints
texbmw, 08/03/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
By far the best driving car I have ever owned. I test drove both an E- 500 and the 540 and the two can't compare from a performance standpoint. The Merc is more luxurious but the BMW has the best driving experience hands down.
perfect beast
dr193, 08/17/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm reviewing the 2003 M5
THE ULTIMATE MACHINE
AMILCAR, 12/10/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
MY FIRST BMW WAS A Z3 FELL IN LOVE WITH THE WAY IT HANLED ON THE ROAD... NOW I HAVE THE 525i WITH ALL THE OPTIONS, OF COURSE THE SPORTS PACKAGE...THE INSIDE IS MUCH BETTER LOOKING THAN THE NEW 2004 AND THE OUTSIDE LINES ARE ALSO BETTER....THIS CAR WILL BE A GREAT CAR TO KEEP FOR YEARS TO COME AND IT WILL ALWAYS TURN HEADS ON THE ROAD..... I'M JUST GLAD I HAVE THE 2003! VS. 2004
Everything I expected
hboomer7, 10/31/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This 530 is everthing I expected it to be. The drive is a thrill and the ride is excellent (at any speed).
When driving is fun
Himself, 06/16/2005
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Easily the finest sport sedan I have ever driven. Amazing performance and very responsive. It goes precisely where you point it - so pay attention all the time! Soft high performance tires last 23000 miles in my car, but its worth it. Four hours of driving with a brief stop at two hours - and no low back misery. Must watch out for speed - it will cruise at 80 mph with no noise, total control and plenty left to go much faster. (Don't do it!) This car has prevented at least two accidents for me - erratic driver (drunk?), and multi vehicle crash on LA freeway. What I love is how much control the driver enjoys and the high level comfort. Cup holders shouldn't be used. Enjoy!
My 540ia experience
opptheman, 10/02/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First let me mention that I previously owned a 1997 740il since 9-2001. After taking out a 540i on a test drive back in April, I knew I had to have one. A 528, 525 or 530 may look like a 540 but believe me that 8 cylinder makes a world of a difference. Beware that dealers seemed to charge a premium for this car so I lucked out and found a private owner selling a 2003 for a tad bit more than the dealer wanted for a 2001. The car drives like a dream, corners on a rail and is lightening fast and silky smooth. It's also a conservative clean cut look so most people won't have a clue of how sporty it really is. My 740 drove great too but didn't respond in turns and wasn't nearly as quick.
Not My Last Beemer
macjanum, 11/25/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is absolutely the best all-around automobile I have ever owned or leased, including Mercedes. Superb reliability, comfort, handling, performance, safety. All I have added was an Alpine CD-changer and all- weather rubber floor mats. Forget the cup holders and drive! The 530iA has met or exceeded all of my expectations and disposal value remains high. This was my first BMW - I don't think it will be my last.
2003 540i 6spd Sport
lochaven, 02/14/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in Sep 03 after driving 2004 530i (liked the styling, interior, and lack of iDrive of 2003 better). Traded a 2 year old Corvette. 540i only has 85% of the Vette's performance but is 200% more refined. The manual 6 spd was a little notchy for the first few months but was smooth after that. Seat and door seal squeaks were the only quality problems I had and the dealer eventually fixed/replaced them. One dealer frustration was they didn't know why my auto-headlights didn't work after two trips the the shop. I later learned that this feature is disabled when foglights are on! After 5 years I want to buy a new car but just can't find one with better styling or performance.
a super automobile
hamilton, 08/26/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the 540i 6M i bought just a few months ago is a marvellous car to drive --peppy, quiet, and comfortable. it is also very safe. it is probably the best car i have ever owned.
bmw 5 series
jtbaer5, 08/29/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have driven BMWs since 1985 and this i sby far the best (technology probably is the reason). Handling for a sport sedan remains the best I can imagine. Low end power has always been less then stellar, but I accept that for the high end and sport/comfort/durability/reliability.
As good as it gets !
itwizard, 08/31/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car after test driving several competing cars from Mercs, Lexus and Audi. I needed something with 4 doors. This 540 is an absolute beauty. It has speed, power and superb handling. Above all it feels real solid and safe while driving. Kids love it and so does the wife.
Ultimate Driving Machine
Yura, 12/23/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Performance is not all about acceleration. 525i does not have strong pull of a 540 or an M5 but it has all the right genes, awesome handling and road manners; it is full of potential. Pleasure to drive, first car in which I do not regret talking longer way home.
Former M3 Driver
A pleasure to drive, 09/16/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
As a former M3 owner, I was concerned about this cars performance. Not anymore. Equipped with the sport package and 5 speed Steptronic transmission, understanding that this car is not a hot rod, acceleration is excellent, while handling is formidable. Fuel consumption overall has been 21.1 mpg according to to vehicles computer. This car provides for me what is necessary to be considered a true sport sedan.
Love my BMW
DBCAFY, 02/25/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best car ever build. Combination of 5 passenger seating, room for golf clubs and best of all - sports car!
Enjoying it
nb525, 08/08/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just put 1000 miles on it in two weeks and enjoyed every minute of it. Have been driving the solid Volvo 940 and sporty Maxima, 525 is much better than the sum of the two. Hope the 525 will last even longer (240k for Maxima, 240k Volvo is still running).
Great car - could use more hp & torque
interceptor, 01/03/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great handling car with the sports package. Responsive and precise. Although the interior is smaller than most of its competitors, its exterior is still the best in my mind. Aggressive, sporty and purposeful without being trendy and tacky.
A Rocket Ship at the Right Price
Miami Vice, 08/10/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased a 540i with Nav in June 2003. My 4th BMW and what a delight to drive the 38 miles R/T to work. No problems so far. The best part was the deal...paid invoice with a trade. You can do better now with an under invoice deal. The time to buy is now.......but it's your $$$
No Real Complaints
4 Time Owner, 07/31/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the third 5 Series I've owned, and they keep on getting better. The extra low end torque compared to the previous 528 version is noticable. It still handles like no other mid-size sedan, and I've test driven all of them. If you enjoy precise road feel, steering, braking and cornering, this is the car to own.
good
hardcorerocker97, 08/17/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car, if ur looking for a sweet nice looking car with a good price tag this car is the one. I would recommend it for anyone, last long too.
BMW 525i
jerroldl, 08/13/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is by far the best automobile I have ever owned. They call the BMW the ultimate driving machinem and they have the right to do so.
BEST CAR
DSANJ, 09/04/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
BEST CAR I EVER LEASED AND I HAVE LEASED OVER 20 CARS
My first BMW
magic32, 09/03/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first BMW . . . now I know why they call it the ultimate driving machine!
The best
Dayo, 01/04/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The best car you can own
Love it!!!!
sean neill, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best car i ever ownd.... but i am going to trade it in for the new one
Great car to drive...
jcc, 09/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was going to buy the 325i, but changed my mind with a week before I actually bought the 525i. With the new design coming out next month, this car is by far the best value out there if you are looking to buy a BMW right now. Great car to drive for years. Test drive one and turn a few corners, you'll understand why.
This Car is Wonderful!
Califlygirl, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car makes me smile every time I slip into it and take it for a ride! It is smooth, extremely well-built, lovely to look at and is recommended highly.
My Dream Car Lives Up to My Expectations
LadyTLS, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new in January 2003 and have been grinning ever since. The ride is a great combination of luxury and performance -- meaning you ride in comfort but you still feel connected to the road. And when you hit the gas, you know you've got power under the hood ready to meet your needs. I also had to take a quick evasive manuever once when another car turned in front of mine, and I quickly discovered that this car handles like a champ!
Great Performer
Gary W, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have never owned a German Car before. I am amazed of the performance of this car. It is solid and feels very heavy and safe on the road. I currently have a lexus as a second vehicle and this BMW totally out performs it. I recommend it to everyone. I will be looking to get another BMW when The Lexus lease is up. Can't wait.
The best car I've ever own
Charlie IL, 01/08/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My BMW 540I 6 Speed is my fourth BMW. I have own 2 Mercedes Benz 3 other BMW's but the BMW 540I has to be the best car. I love the way it handles cornering, stopping, power, perfornmance over all. The styling of the exterior as well as the interior of the car has to be one if not the most sexiest one. I also like the fact that I feel very safe while driving it, where on other cars I don't get that feeling. The BMW 540I is the best car to drive.