Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Das Auto!!
T Embich, 03/15/2016
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
47 of 47 people found this review helpful
Purchased our 2003 530i a little over a year ago. Got it for $5K and at 130K miles. I do most of my own repairs and I've never seen such awesome engineering on a car. It's a pleasure to work on if you are into car repair. Driving it is a real thrill that never gets old. We've taken it on several long trips and it just loves the open road. Seats are amazingly comfortable. Usually back seats are a weak point in most sedans but this BMW has very comfortable rear seats. Gas mileage on a combined city/highway commute is about 25 mpg. For a 24 valve 6 cylinder that is very good mileage. Hope to keep this beauty for the foreseeable future.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
They Don't Make Them Like This Anymore
DMan, 08/20/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
36 of 36 people found this review helpful
Purchased from a private party with 25K on the odometer. Currently have about 99.4K miles on it. This has been far the most reliable car we've ever owned - Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Mazda. When you do basic maintenance yourself, ownership costs are somewhat comparable to many other brands. Just have to keep an eye out on the cooling system, heard that this was/is the weakest part of the E39's (so far no problems with mine). Average MPG during summer months: 24-27
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164K and still a true road car!
Corey Stark, 03/04/2016
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
I just bought my 525i a couple of weeks ago. I have owned a couple in the past---328xi and an X5. Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical about buying a car with so many miles on it but I was really up against the wall. WIth 4 kids in college, my funds were limited. But I just loved the ride. I am 6'2" and 240lbs and an ex football player. Needless to say, I need my comfort. This car handles me just fine. I bought it and decided to take it on a road trip with my sweetheart. We went from MPLS, MN to Albuquerque, NM and back...then went to Lewistown MT!! No issues at all. Speed limits were 80 mph! This vehicle just loves the open road. Comfortable---even at the gas pumps. Considering my speed we still managed over 26.6 mpg overall for our 5k trip. Performance is totally acceptable, quiet cockpit, and the handling---oh my, the handling. There is simply nothing like a BMW on the road---it is happiest there! Now just after purchase I did get stuck with a crank ventilation valve issue. $1043.00 at the dealer. and the ABS system is on the bug. But I am pretty old school and never liked ABS anyway. Dealer said it wont hurt the car not to fix ($1700.00 plus $400 for reprograming) so I am running it as is. The one previous owner took good care of this vehicle. So as far as a recommendation goes for this car, I would have to say that I recommend it highly. CHeck it out thoroughly when you come across one with higher miles on the clock. Then take it to a BMW dealer and have it scoped--about $150.00. Trust me---get this done! Then you can be very comfortable with your purchase.
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- Performance
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- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
168K and still going strong!
papatago, 06/28/2014
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
43 of 46 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing! Bought it in '05 with 7K on it and now I have 168K and still solid, well built and reliable! If you can DIY some things, you can save a grip of $$$ and still have one of best cars built, period! Heavy car and going through tires is going to be an issue but nothing beats this car on the open road! I drive from northern CA to southern CA twice a month 700+ miles and 30+MPG can compare with a lot of hybrids out there...but no hybrid is as fun to drive. It truly is the Ultimate Driving Machine!
I cannot give this car up-just too good.
barton, 12/05/2014
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
The 2003 530i is a classic, and in every sense a world-class vehicle. I can't seem to let mine go. I am the new leaser of a Ford Fusion Hybrid, and I am getting 43 to 44 MPG, and it rides smoothly, and it has all the modern synching and convenience features, including magnificent cup-holders (if you catch my drift), all for new price $29K with leather seats. Quite a good value, but I will never stop driving my 530i for fun, for that luxury feel and comfort, for that unbelievable handling and precision. As the last and most refined of the E39 series, it is just the best car, much more of a driver's car than even the 2004, and far more so than today's 5 series.
Best car I've ever had
bdclass, 10/18/2015
updated 10/20/2016
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Bought in September 2014 with 93,000 miles from a family friend. Only paid $5400. She bought it cpo in 2006 for $32,000 had 19,000 miles when she purchased it. Incredibly reliable car. Only issues with the car are the clutch crapped at 101,000 miles, new clutch for $1,200 drives like new. Passenger side power seat died when our friends owned it they spent around $1000 to fix. The drivers side power seat has died on me in my position so we aren't fixing it. The instrumentation is pixlelated, also too expensive to fix. I put 16,000 miles on it in one year of ownership and have never been worried about it leaving me sit. For a 12 year old car it drives like new, I enjoy driving it much more than my 2009 Honda Accord v6, despite it being half the age with 30,000 less miles. (Also a nice car though for those on the market for a car.) Once I get a new job I'm going to buy a new 3 series, because that is about the last 4 door BMW you can buy with a manual transmission. Update: has a terrible oil leak, but is still driving well.
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Got to LOVE IT!
Viper1, 08/23/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I read some reviews that talk of the cup holders and other issues. We bought our 2003 525i and simply love it. The thing is on rails but also feels heavy but responsive. The weight is good for absorbing road imperfections. Just feels solid. Performance is nice, just need to hit the sport tronic trans at right rpm range. This car looks better than the newer model and BMW has changed it back to the E39 style with a more squat body. I had to change the alternator, but like our broken cup holder, alternator, and brakes, all of which I changed myself with the Bentley E39 Service Manual and the write tools and she is as tight as, well tight feels good. We Just Love Her, Silvia, because it's silver.
BMW 530 past 60,000 miles
TonyH, 01/29/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
21 of 23 people found this review helpful
The 530 corners as if it is on rails and it accelerates very quickly and smoothly. I also own a E350 Benz and the BMW kills it in terms of performance (and the Benz is no slouch). The difference with the Benz is that the quality of the interior is hugely superior to the 530 - indeed the 530 is pretty basic in comparison. The BIG problem with the Beemer is reliability. Since hitting about 60k it's been own thing after another. First the door locks stopped working, then the doors started leaking, then the AC started acting up, then the alternator died, then, then.....the dollars just keep flowing out the door. For a car that is competing in the luxury space this is just BAD
Awesome!!
John, 12/15/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Needed a sedan for my wife and wanted something fun to drive for me with room for kids, dog and golf clubs. Purchased the 530i with sport package. Never expected the handling and responsiveness. Enough power for a car this size and decent gas mileage. The sport wheels just want to make you stare at the car and admire!!!!
540i M-Sport (where do I go from here?)
Dan, 12/20/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
Experiencing the performance of this car is simply amazing. This car does everything so well (acceleration, handling, comfort and luxury) all while looking so classy. I expect I will be hard pressed to find something to replace it any where close to the 61K I paid for it. The M-Sports package does some pretty remarkable things to this car. I definitely love the edgy, aggressive look of this car as compared to the E60. So, far I have had a few repairs which can add up at the dealership but I honestly think taking very good care of this car is so worth it. If they sold this exact car new, I would buy it again - it's that good. I would highly recommend it if you can find one.
The greatest car on the road!!!
anthony_e39, 07/24/2014
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
Being only 16 years old I am fortunate enough to have a 2003 525i for my first car it's got 45k miles and this car is truly a dream! It rides so smooth! Mine has the sport package and it is a joy to drive! It handles like a dream and the most fun car to own! If you have the opportunity to own one DONT HESITATE!!!! The repairs are kinda pricey but if you're a car guy like myself DIYing it will save you plenty of money! Truly love this car and am now a loyal BMW owner!
Can't beat it with(out) a stick
HipFan, 01/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Simply incredible. Anyone who disses this car obviously hasn't driven one, and certainly doesn't own one. Go peddle your sour grapes somewhere else.
Solid Car
Northern Rider, 05/04/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I have had this car since 2007 and just recently had its first problem, a gasket leak that cost $800 to repair, its been reliable, solid, wonderful to drive. Its the best looking car on the road in my eyes, I love the ageless design.
Great car, if you ignore reliability
Mike12345, 07/18/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I love the handling, the ride, & the fuel efficiency. The engine power is only slightly lacking. However, a car must also be reliable. This car requires repairs every 8 to 12 weeks (seriously). Thank god for the extended warranty. I fear the day the extended warranty expires & I still owe monthly payments. I love this car&hate its ongoing issues: new radiator; new plastic radiator reservoir; washer fluid pump failure (3 times); pcv valve failure ($700 to repair) & my personal favorite is when the seat warmer caught fire. The car is awesome to drive and looks like poetry in motion but my 30 year old Ford truck has been more reliable. German efficiency does not seem to include reliability
Awesome ride
csfischer20, 07/15/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I picked up this Bimmer at a great price and I fell in love with it the second I sat down and started it. They come well equipped and ride awesome. I've had an Audi before and it was just too much to maintain. The more research I did the better I felt about getting a BMW. It's certified and has all of the records. Just enough pick up on the streets, but not a gas hog. I didn't like the body style of the 2004 so I went with this one. It's everything I hoped it would be.
Excellent Power Train but Bad Gadgets
Steven, 12/23/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is an excellent piece of machine especially if you like its aggressive and bossy exterior look. However, given the power train and the handling are excellent, there are just too many little problems that constantly haunt you. For example, weak cup holder (I replaced it twice), flimsy exterior thermostat (replaced twice), unreliable cooling system.
as close to perfect as a car can get
jasonnga, 07/10/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have had several Mercedes, Lexus and this is my 2nd BMW (first was M3). All cars have something that I would change, but this is definitely the best car I have ever owned. The only complaints are cup holders, radio, and seats. The seats are too narrow. I am a weight lifter with wide shoulders, and I cannot fit inbetween the lumbar supports. I have to sit sideways. Even the M3 did not do this.
A great car!
kjm, 03/03/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th BMW and the one I kept the longest (prior 3 were 3-series). This car does everything well; style, performance, handling, comfort & safety. I have not experienced any major problems with the car - routine work only. 87000 miles and going strong. I still get compliments on the car even after 6 years!
Very Reliable
scott, 11/21/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 85k on it. Sold it with 130k. Only had one problem ac related 150.00 fixed it. Ran great good gas mileage and looks beautiful. Blizzaks on the back will make winter driving no problem (within reason). Don't be afraid to buy. Engine and tranny are bulletproof.
Beauty is only skin deep
swany, 11/11/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Truly one of the best performance sedans on the market. Clean design with a solid feeling of reliable performance. You ride in quiet luxurious surroundings and at the same time have a real "feel" for the road and the exhilaration of strong performance.
My big, beautiful beast
Greg J, 06/20/2006
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2003 540i with the 6-speed manual transmission, which automatically gets you the sport package; and, for 2003 models only (in the US), also gets you the M-sport package, which includes front and rear fascia, 18" M-parallel rims with staggered tire sizes, along with a host of ///M badged goodies, such as shift knob, steering wheel, doorsills, etc. This is the closest thing you can get to an M5, and is in fact more rare; less than 1000 6-speed 540s were imported in 2003. My car is black on black and is absolutely beautiful. It has a lot of "presence" and gets a lot of thumbs up! Fast, comfortable, but "mature"...no boy-racer junk. Hope to keep it forever.
BMW 530Ci
Dennis DeCArlo, 12/26/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is a very well engineered, and built vehicle. I would recommend it to anyone interested in buying a high quality vehicle.
Best Car Ever
M1fuller, 01/02/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've only owned this car for a week but can sum up this extordianary car in one word...WOW...I'm extremely excited about this car...email with any questions.
Best Sports Sedan
Rich2003, 12/30/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Used to drive an Acura NSX and traded in for a MB E320 sedan after starting a family. I did not think it was possible to ask for both sporty feel and luxury ride. Less than one minute into test driving a 2003 530i, I knew right away what I would give myself for Christmas this year :) (only question left was buying vs leasing).
Came down to Lexus or BMW
lreeves, 01/07/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've only had the car for a little over a month, but it reminds me daily that I made the right choice!
Only the Germans can do this...
iwannarace, 01/01/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 530iA with a Sport Package about 6 weeks ago. I shopped, I compared, I slept on it, I thought of compromise, nothing could take me away. Boy am I glad I stuck with my intial instinct. This car does what you want it to do! Go! Stop! Corner! It's exhilirating every time I approach those 17" alloys, open and enter the chamber, sit in that bad ass seat and rap my hands around that 3 spoke sport wheel. The only complaint I have is that there are too many other cars on the road that interfere with my ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE AND ME!
530i
Sport, 07/25/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Came from a 2002 330i which has sport suspension, very low profile tires and firm seats. I loved the whole package. However, at my age and physical condition a softer ride was needed. The 530 provides that and many other desirable features more approprite to my situation.
Solid and Nimble
davethewave, 06/12/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Very good build quality and performance. 93K and still no rattles, but rotors and heater are sounding worn out. Had computer chip go out under warranty, so reliability is not as good as expected for car at this price level. Dealer service was inconvenient. I have no regrets, but I would probably not buy another one new - mainly because I live too far from a dealer, and I don't like the new 5-series styling and high price.
Nice 2003 BMW 525i 5 speed.
Marc , 12/07/2006
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This 525i is great. I never did drive the 530 so I don't know what I'm missing in power, but I traded in my 2001 Acura CL type S and do not mind that I gave up over 70HP and other cool features such as Xenon headlights, homelink, Nav, and a CD changer. My 525i 5 speed is a blast to drive and feels very fancy inside and out even without almost all the options.
BMW 525i Response
Sanjay Ganju, 07/17/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I have a 525i sports trim for the last 4 years. First there is constant problem with the dashboard electronics. Some pixels keep missing. Also there are chronic issues with alternator and additional electronics in the car. It is like dying a death by 1000 cuts. This car stalled on me twice on the highway. Somehow I came out one piece. Each time a repair is conducted results in 500-1000USD tab and if you go to their dealer then God help you. BMW is a sleek and sporty car but sell it as soon as the manufacturer warranty is over.
A Fine Sedan
Robert, 09/07/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
After seeing and driving the 2004 E60 5 Series, I immediately leased the last 2003 E39 540i at my dealer. At the end of the lease, I still didn't find a better car, so bought the car from the leasing company! Now after 7 years and 76,000 miles this car continues to impress. I've been fortunate to own many high end cars, but the E39 540i has been one of the best. It has pleasing styling, a comfortable, stylish interior and great ride/handling balance. Mine has had some reliability issues: door locks, power seat cables, and radiator, all covered under warranty or extended warranty. I know this can be an expensive car to fix as it ages and I should replace is soon, but with what?
A Man's Car
psorota, 08/26/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I drove so many luxury cars before my husband talked me into trying the BMW 525i that I just assumed that this car would have all the creature comforts that my former Lexus and others had. NOT! No place for CD storage, no place for purse, no lumbar support, seat belts practically strangle me, hard to get in and out of (too low, I guess), small trunk, no A/C vents in back seat. Altho I love the Septronic transmission, I am not comfortable in this car and have concluded it is a "man's car" (my husband loves to drive it). I doubt I'd buy another BMW for these reasons.
don't buy the sport package with conti's
wackowacko, 03/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The tires that come with the sport package are the worst I have ever seen. Contintial Sport contacts replaced at 7500 miles. In addition from day one there has been a vibration in the steering. 5 rotations 2 alignments later it is still there. Dealer says it is a known problem on sport models.....
Fabulous Car
smeagol, 11/30/2005
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I always wanted to own one of these babies even after having a Mercedes E320. A ride in a 2004 X5 got me really thinking about it, so when I needed to give my college age daughter a car, I gave her my 4 year old Acura and picked up a used 525i with 16k. What a fabulous purchase. Without a doubt, the most civil road hugging vehicle I have ever owned and tastefully, impeccably appointed inside to boot. And NO iDrive!!!
Solid performer
SC owner, 11/21/2007
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Wonderful car with a strong luxury feel. I've owned the car about a year and driven it about 7,000 miles. I did have to replace the thermostat since I kept getting a service engine light. Another problem is missing pixels in my instrument display and radio display. This required replacing the instrument cluster and the MID display. Electronic parts are very expensive ($1600). Since the car was out of warranty, I wrote to BMW to see if they would assist with the repairs and they said they would. Put me in the BMW good will program and agreed to pay for the parts if I paid the labor. Good deal for me, nearly $2000 worth of repairs for less than $175.
The First Four Months
TreDurden, 11/16/2006
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Remarkably fun to drive (5 speed manual). Responsive steering and handling. Interior comforts are amazing. I had a Jeep before, they are fun to drive, but in a different way. The Jeep is amazing fun in an off-road way as where the 5-Series is just as much fun in an Autobahn kinda way.
My Dream Car
betattack, 08/03/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I finally got my dream car. This thing handles GREAT! Looks GREAT! Feels GREAT! I love to take sharps turns and feel the car hug the road. The seats are real comfortable too. Well worth the price.
2003 BMW 540i
D.Chow, 03/27/2007
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
How can I say this... I finally understand the true meaning of, "The Ultimate Driving Machine!" I brought a CPO 2003 540i with the sport package in 2006. This is my personal sports car, family car, golfing car (room for foursome and 4 sets of golf clubs - they even give you a picture of how to best store the clubs in the trunk). I have so much fun driving this car. Sometimes I even take the longer but winding road home just to feel the acceleration and handling of the 540. Even with the automatic, I can either put the transmission in "S - Sports" mode or just shift it manually. It's FUN either way. My 9 year old son is already counting the days until his 17th birthday.
BMW 530i 2003
mark, 11/27/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This car is the perfect balance between sport & luxury. Purchased new in 2003. Now have 95,000 trouble free miles. Have owned many cars from a cobra mustang 500hp to a honda crx and everything in between. I now also have a mazda speed 3 also nice. BMW makes some of the best cars for the money out there. Smooth, quiet, peppy, comfortable, reliable and nice looking. Runs better now than when I purchased it. Most of my miles have been highway. I get about 24 mpg with 70% hwy 30 local. I also enjoy driving the new and old 3 series.
Yah is definately a driving machine
ddano, 03/02/2023
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2003 in july of 2021 from a friends boyfriend who sold it to me as he bought a 2021 p/u We agreed to 720$ u.s. and although it had 171,225 on the odie the last 5yrs were 120 miles daily M-F to work and back- Almost all freeway.. I did know the front steering/ suspension needed updated so that figured into our agreed price. Replaced all linkage, control arms, tie rods etc for 175 bucks at rockauto and four new radials-all seasons & hi -spd rated- 195 u.s. priority tire after alignment. Brakes were next and all fluids - except tranny done in jul 20 Maintenance and normal upkeep prices are far less then one is led to believe As in "Bill heard ya hadta put a new waterpump in yer 2003 530i must of set you back like 175 bucks. Bill says nope 27 and free delivery to my front door in under 3 days and saved a ton by DIYing it These E39 engines have plenty of power and are mated to the rest of well thought out drive train delivering great torque and acceleration thru all the power ranges. The traction control and auto adjust suspension add to the fun of very curvy and long winding county roads as body roll and hard braking dip is kept to a min. Long freeway riding/driving miles are easily done as the seats Fr and Bck were designed for max support and comfort for DR and Pass and all the creature comforts are made with ease of operation in a well thought out cockpit. The sound system is top grade-mine has the additional factory installed multi CD changer and a factory installed pwr amp located L side of trunk behind the side liners. My only real complaints for the 2003 530i's are 1) when the ABS system activates while braking on wet roads and then feeling those annoying little pulses in the brake pedal letting you know the abs is working. Just bugs the crap outta me, incluudes every car with abs i ever driven. And 2) Why in gods name would you use styrene plastics in the main cooling system where the heated waters going to reach at least 220 degree F as in a plastic thermostat housing AND THEN place it on TOP of the engine and near the oil filter to boot. Not to mention plastic on Every H2O hose connector Not even going to mention about a plastic coolant resevoir/overlow tank All that heat and cooling constantly expanding, then cotracting One those components can and will fail eventually but when and where and how much damage it does. And it will happen one day I replaced my plastic piece of crap coolant tank with an aluminum one first week i had the car But now its 2023 and the beemers got 176,570 on the odie and still going strong Makes me wish i had bought a BMW while in germany 1985-1987 courtesy of US Armed forces (army) missle command
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- Performance
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- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love My Beamer 530i
C Juhl, 08/29/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Drove this car out of the dealers and have never gone back except for nomal upkeep/manitenance and that has been only once since I got it. I simply have no complaints. I've owned more than twenty cars and have never had a better one than this 530i. My dealer told me the in line 3.0 liter engine was made for car. After nearly 18 months of driving it, I believe it. Driving machine is really on target for this car.
Electronic Problems
seabreez, 04/24/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We picked up A CPO 530i just off of lease. Records were clean & initially car lived up to the BMW standards. 3 months in the electrical system started going haywire (sensors) & has been a pain ever since. It has gotten to the point I contacted the CEO of BMWAG in Germany. Very disappointed they threw it back on dealer. It is the mfg. fault, not the dealer. At present working with dealer to roll out into another. Dealer is being very helpful & I hope for a resolution soon. Other than this the car is what you expect from a BMW.
The Jury Is Out
LoyolaCub84, 06/18/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Just bought the 530i. Currently, dealer's are offering heavy discounts due to factory incentives to make room for the newly designed 5 series coming in October. I'm happy so far. I agree with many of the reviews that the car has both sport and touring car characteristics. More sport than touring, however. Time will tell if it turns out as reliable as the Lexus whos' place it took.
Transmission problem
lawrence, 10/25/2010
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
25 of 42 people found this review helpful
Once the 6 year 100k miles warranty is gone, surprises! Maintenance very expensive and for those equipped with lifetime ZF HP19 transmission you'll be lucky if it last past 100K mark. Especially in New England weather.
Worst BMW I've owned (out of 4)
Lee, 11/01/2018
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
Bought at 63k miles for $7k, within a few miles, radiator cracked, power steering hoses leaked, oil housing leaked ($2k). Torque converter went bad with in 5k miles ($2k), window regulators went out, all by 75k miles. And cheap crap plastic door sill covers, REALLY?? This is by far the worst, most unreliable BMW yet! Performance, yes, when it's not in the shop! Probably sell soon!
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- Value
So glad I don't have an '04 or '05
TK540iA, 10/29/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my third E39 model 540, and is clearly the best one I've owned. The 540iA Sport package is a dream to drive, handles and rides like a champ, and does NOT have the I-drive or the Chris Bangle inspired ugly ass styling of the new 5 and now middle aged 7 series. I originally leased the car, assuming that I'd love the new 5 series, but have now decided that I will buy the vehicle once the lease expires. If you are in the market for a 5 series, find yourself an E39 and you won't be unhappy.
Highly Recommended
John, 08/24/2005
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Love this car... what a sweet ride. It handles very well despite the 3800 lbs, interior is perfect away from the useless cupholders, sport package is great. Be careful & watch the speedometer, you'll think you're doing 65 & really be doing 105.
530I Comments
Big Dawg, 09/23/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is an incredible vehicle. Highly recommend it! Only critique is the flimsy cupholders. Best vehicle I've ever had.
Excellent Car, buy it, but negotiate
tommyj, 06/24/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has all the performance: steering, handling, braking, acceleration that I expect from a BMW. It's my second BMW, but this is the first 5. I'm a stick shift driver so I'm surprised that I like driving an automatic. The 530i has enough power to overcome the automatic.
Wonderful Ride
islander, 05/22/2004
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is a joy to drive - excellent handling and driving environment. The solid build quality gives you a feeling of safety as well. Perfect mix of fun to drive and comfort.