Used 2004 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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WOW OMG!
bimmerfan, 05/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the most fun car I have ever driven. I love the way exterior looks. It is definately in the top 5 best looking cars on the road, definately the car with a serious "PRESENCE"! I- Drive is very easy and can be learned in a very short time. The comfort seats are awesome. Premium sound is awesome. I test drove MB E500 and it is a very nice car as well but this new 5 series is definately more fun to drive, handles better and to me, it looks way more interesting.
Bottom line: 2004 530ia bimmer
joejoe91, 05/02/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bottom line: 5 series bimmers still provide "The Ultimate Driving Experience" hands down! In my search for a new car over the past 6 months, I have reviewed and test driven over 10 different makes of 2004 vehicles including BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, & Infiniti. The BMW 5 series is, to me, the VERY BEST in every category.
2004 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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Pretty close to perfect
panderse, 12/23/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is just an awesome vehicle. I drove other japanese cars claiming to be in the same class, and while they had impressive specs, none could come close to the driving experience of the 5. Plenty of power, flawless transmission with sport and manual modes, and impecible handling. I found immediately that i need to work on my driving skills because this car does exactly what you tell it to. I know people are complaining about iDrive, but I find it pretty easy to use. Althought i work with computers all day.
Great car
MMorton, 04/29/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car so far. Excellent performance. Did not like sports package, ride too choppy. Ordered several options. Handles and rides very securely. Chose this car over Mercedes E500 after I test drove both.
Greatest Car on Earth C D Elmore
guselmo, 05/08/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My son and I did European Delevery of car. Drove it in and around Munich and into Zurich. Finding our way was not a problem with Nav System and the new i drive was as easy as 123. My son is a pilot for a major airline and found the nav system easy to program as well as trained me for my entire trip and all of the destination through Swetzerland with ease. Handling the car in the Alps and snow was a pleasure.
2004 530i
gonzo40, 12/26/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
have logged about 350 miles on it already, fun to drive, quick and agile, had a 02 330i before, opted for the new 5 for more room. styling is great, the lines, raptor's eyes, etc., i never get tired looking at it. I- drive is easy to configure - no problems there! handling is superb! got the Premium, Cold Weather and Sport Packages, Xenon and Steptronic - wondering if other options are worth it, PDC, Premium Sound, Rear Seat Heating, etc.
530
corkdsp, 05/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
8k miles so far and loving this car. Only a few minor computer issues that were fixed by dealer with software upgrade. Car drives amazing)
My 2004 530i
Johnny Garcia, 08/15/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had car for one year now and no surprises with any break downs. Car is absolutely fab to drive. Get the Premium audio, sports package and maintenance coverage for all tuneups and oil changes, etc since its definitely worth it.
One of the best ever built
Saurabh, 05/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new 545 has really made a mark for itself in the automotive industry with robust new technology, design & performance. The design is GREAT, technology (active steering) is none like any other & the performance is absolutely exhilirating (325 horses worth). Overall, I've never driven a better car. Definetely worth getting for however much the cost or atleast worth test drivign.
Happy 545 Owner
JDN, 05/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had 545 SMG for one month and one day as a replacement for 540-6spd. Car was delivered in pristine condition. Absolutely no defects have surfaced in the first month. Car is quieter, smoother, more stylish, more technically advanced, and more satisfying to own than my previous wheels.
New 5 Series is all they say it is!!
jim 5109, 12/01/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great handling and a LOT more room than the 0202 5 Series. Much more stylish as well. I am completely satisfied
5 series owns
MaTRiX, 05/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just go test drive it and you will understand the ratings ;)
If it worked it would be great.
bwertma., 01/28/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This could be a great car, but repeated problems with the computer system make it unacceptable. Episodes of the headlights not coming on but instead all exterior lights start flashing rapidly on and off; warnings that the passenger airbag is off when an adult passenger is in the seat; warnings of brake and steering problems; etc. We have had many computer modules replaced and software upgrades to no avail. Because of these types of recurring, potentially dangerous problems; we don't even feel comfortable enough to drive our 530i out of town. It is really fun to drive. If I had gotten one that worked reliably, I would love it.
Best by far
waxahach, 12/27/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I tested every other make in its class including Audi, Mercedes, Jaguar, Lexus, Infiniti and Cadillac. While all the others were very good cars, the 530i is a in class by itself. Truly the Ultimate driving machine, its new styling and outstanding engineering coupled with an unequaled performance makes it the buy of the decade. You have done it again BMW and thanks.
Awesome Automobile!
Lomag, 05/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Boy oh boy! I've been waiting for this car since late 2001 and I finally got it in Feb 2004. This car is excellent however the sport package is a requirement if you choose to buy it. Active steering is incredible and the active roll stabilization which produces almost no body roll while cornering is incredible as well. These two features are a must!! The interior could use some quality improvement in materials in certain areas. I'm sure minor things like this will be worked out over the cars lifetime.
Can't enjoy my other car
bmeehan52, 07/01/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car handles and feels incredible. This is my wife's car, but I get to drive it on occasion. Hard to go back to my car. I do not understand the car press's reaction to the styling. It's aggressive, modern, yet clearly BMW. IDrive is a pain, but as others have pointed out, once things are set, you really don't use it much. Clearly the best car I have ever driven. I had to have the car returned once - the BMW assist didn't work. Still waiting...BMW needs to be careful - the 7 series and MB's had a lots of clitches
Beyond expectations!!
R Wightman, 06/29/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What a car!!! ordered loaded with great anticipation. The car is beautiful to look at, way fun to drive, comfortable, and easy to get to know. No unpleasent surprises or issues. It's everything BMW promises it to be and more!!
i didn't think they could make a better5
rdavidml, 05/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beautiful exaust note. Super accelleration of this very reliable and well tested 8 cylinder. Greatest feature with this engine is the active roll stabilization. no lean in hard curves. Very good workmanship as expected. I have had no problems with the electronics, incl. BMW phone.The large wheels/tires make the look of this car.
Great car
hoopzmaker57, 11/30/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Buy the car. It is great. It is fun to drive and very reliable. Go buy it now.
bmw 530i
bmw530i, 12/28/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
BMW 530i is the best car sedan
WOW!!!!!!!
RWKramer, 05/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My previous car was a Lexus GS400, which I adored. Wanted better handling, performance, etc. and the 545 is IT!!!! I have let several friends drive this magnificient piece of machinery and all have been wowed. The I-drive is a pain in the behind but one can live with it.
So So
Joe from the North, 12/29/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second 5 Series BMW. Compared to the previous version, the 2004 is roomier and more comfortable. The trunk is larger and the new electronics are enjoyable. However the feel and drive are not as tight and driveable as previous versions. The interior dash doesn't have the look or styling of a luxury car. The i-drive, although not as complicated as the 7 series still is difficult to use.
If only the electronics were executed!
David J2005, 05/15/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car! However, everytime the car is started, the "mouse" must be pushed to acknowledge the safety warning. This is a pain. I also have a MB which has the same message, but times out in seconds automatically.
2004 BMW 530ia
joe91, 05/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For 2004 BMW has again produced an excellent, top-of-the-line sport sedan, whic I consider the best on the market. After over 6 months of test driving numerous BMW configurations, as well as competive lines, I again bought a bimmer. So far, I like everything about it (including iDrive and exterior design)!
Could be better
JMZ, 05/31/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Like the looking and performance. Marked 225 hps but feels stronger than Infiniti G35 during the acceleration, which claimed 280 hps. Navigation system works better than my portable Garmin one, particularly the voice reminder, split screen: one for map and one for arrow direction. Parktronic and adaptive headlight are good features. The basic stereo sound is already better than the Bose in my previous Infiniti i30. Things I do not like: the interior looks cheaper than most of the same level cars in the market. IDrive is ok but not much advantages. No mp3 playable although the manual said so. No DVD playable in parking like Infiniti M Series.
my car
nine-a, 12/29/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love driving it
Quick Review
rich mikulak, 05/15/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Terrific car. iDrive system is not an issue. Most of the stuff it controls you wouldn't change while driving. If you can use an ATM, you can use the iDrive. Candidly, the only thing I miss is the control wheel on the dash that controlled the temp of the air that hits your face.
Peri's Review
Peri, 05/18/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car. I had a '99 MB 300TD which I had bought new and loved but this is a more comfortable driving car. Fits nice.
Nirvannah- This is Heaven on Earth
Iqfinsvcs, 12/30/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
During the past 12 years I have owned three different 5-series models, including the new 525i..This car is by far the best in terms of luxary and design, external and internal. I doubted that BMW could better the 97 model..well folks, the new 2004 is a far better auto overall..it's a knockout. The much maligned i-drive is easy to use but you have to play with it for a while..Drawbacks: a noisy interior with the moonroof open on highway, and a premiun cd changer that allows random play on one cd only...minor quips tho.
Really "Ultimate Driving Machine"
Vladi, 05/26/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Perfect blend of luxury and performance.Was very interested in purchasing MB 320 but "fun to drive" factor was crucial to make decision.Also, there is reliability issue with MB cars. I-Drive is not an issue at all, it is actually fun! Anyone with basic computer literacy can figure it out in 10 minutes
Superlative from Start to Finish
Anthony2, 05/27/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 4th BMW. They keep getting better. Old purist balk at the new design (my suspicion is that people are mostly upstet because the new design makes the 2003 and older now look dated). I live in Germany, and the car cruises at 120 MPH as smoothly as if it were going 55 MPH on a US highway. The controls are intuitive without being too busy. Always go with leather and the sport package. You will hate me because I got a US Specs 530i, with Steptronic, and leather for under $42K in Germany under the Military Sales Program (Shipping to the USA, and no taxes when I bring it home)--but I'm military and it is a small benefit for spending 12 months fighting the war.
545i is pretty darn nice
Momo, 10/11/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 545i today after driving a 530i Sport package demo. This car is pretty awesome. The 6 speed auto transmission was surprisingly smooth and did a nice job of kicking into lower gears coming out of the apex of my turns. Anyone who thinks the new i- Drive is difficult simply lacks any degree of common sense. I found the system easy to navigate. And BMW did a nice job of adding a menu button to get back to the main screen if you shold get lost and functional knobs for the temp control and raido volume, which pretty much eliminates the necessity to use the i-Drive when you are driving.
First Time 5 Owner...
Beamer Novice, 12/01/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A well built tight driving car. Smooth ride and suspension and handles like a sports car with a luxary feel to it. Idrive takes a day or two to master but after that it's a real pleasure to set controls and only reset them as desired. No clutter of buttons or switches on the dash to deal with. I'm a BMW owner for life now. Maybe the next one will be the 7 Series.
New 5 Series is Outstanding
sascholfield, 12/31/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An absolutely outstanding vehicle. Looks fantastic, drive beautifully and has the best interior features I've ever seen on a car. Congratulations to BMW on an incredible job!
No Regrets
Rondell, 05/30/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a terrific automobile. Looks, handling, comfort and it's as solid as a rock. A lofty price tag, buts it's worth it. I-Drive gives a man that total feeling of control, like that same feeling you get when you take possession of the TV remote. Mr. Long Giang at Vista Motors is great.
pull up your socks and DRIVE!!!
Bradman, 06/01/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
BMW continues to push the limits of the 6 driving senses with the new 545i. Plenty of power to go round. The handling and off the line power have improved significantly. The sports package rides a little rough but huggs the road like a much smaller car. This car handles and performs like a Corvette with 4 doors and a trunk. Get one on the road and try not to smile when you grip the wheel and mash your right foot to the floor!!!!
Excellent Drive
Puchi713, 12/30/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The BMW 5 Series is the best driving car I have driven as well as comfort interior. Well worth the money. Anyone who takes pleasure in driving should test drive the BMW
My BMW 530i
James Cheek, 06/04/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2004 BMW 530i has fulfilled all my expectations. It is quiet,smooth, powerful, good looking, easy to handle and fun to drive. The I-Drive is sometimes a pain and at times one yearns for the simpler, digitial dash controls, especially for climate--the radio and CD controls may acutally be better on the I-Drive. I had a defective airbag warning light (most apparently did) but BMW promptly replaced the defective computer causing it.
Lovin' It
Johnny JK, 06/04/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really love this call, except for the fact that lately, some iDrive features are acting a little funky (need to take it into the dealership)
Love at first sight
Tom Mescall, 11/22/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first saw her, I was captured. On my drive up to the dealer I saw many vehicles on the lot and my eyes continued to be drawn to the new 5. Once I began to approach the vehicle, I had to have it. The only questions in my mind was engine, options and color. My new 530i is a pure joy. With the premium and sport package it looks and feels great. The driving experience is unparellled. I previously test drove the E320, and the A6. Neither captured my desire for a luxury sports car with such vigor as my new 5. I don't even look back over my shoulder in the one month I have owned it. I know I made the right decision.
I am back
i'm back, 12/30/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
amazing! I had a 2002 525 and last january sold it and bought x5. x5 was great but certainly no 5 sreies.My wife now drives the x5. I did not think bmw could or should mess with the 5 series. but now that i own the new 530 with the sport package i am impressed. the car drives and handles impressively.i had mixed feelings regarding the new body style, but after seeing the car in the drive way it is sharp!
Be Your Own Judge
E60_90024, 06/04/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
You must drive this car to appreciate the blend of sporty performance and luxury. The full size appearance belies actual performance characteristics. The handling and performance are nothing short of awesome. iDrive takes a little time to master, but you soon realize that you have ultimate control over systems and have access to information that in any other car, you'd have to rely on the dealer service department for. The ability to create custom settings for the steeing wheel control buttons is a great feature. And Bangle bashing aside - The styling is both sporty and elegant, and unlike anything in it's class.
Love this BMW!!!
hawks97, 06/04/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Only had this for two months, but I love it! Car is very comfortable, and fun to drive. iDrive system is OK, but don't like the need to "accept" BMW's disclosure every time you start the car ("don't mess with this while you drive"). Also, for radio use, you can't simply push a button to get to a station, you have to scroll through every preset. Poor storage space. For a 2004 luxury sedan, it baffles me why BMW still has a place between the front seats for an installed cell phone. What little space is available is mostly taken up by that holder. Even with very limited drawbacks, this car is amazing.
Nice Ride!
Silver4evr, 01/02/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I took delivery on 12/12/03 of a Titanium Silver 530ia with light grey leather/Antracite trim, Steptronic Auto Trans, Premium, Sport, Prem. Sound, Parking Distance Control, Active Cruise Control, and Fold Down split rear seat. I test drove a 330ia and a 525ia before deciding. The 330ia was very fast but bouncy. The 525ia felt a tad bit under powered. The car does everything asked of it and more. There are some cool design touches: The mirrors automatically turn down when in reverse so you can see the curb, the music volume automatically increases at high speeds to overcome road noise. Through the iDrive, almost everything is programmable.
bmw top notch
Dr.. Frank, 06/04/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My previous car was a Acura its so much diffrance.BMW terrific car,top of the line sedan. So far, I like everything about it. The I-drive is fine I do not see any problems. It should be a bit cheaper and have more standard features.
Disppointed
DissapointedBMW, 10/13/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you can get a 2003 530i (old style) then buy that one. The "new" 5 does not even come close to this car. I have both 2003 & 2004. If I could get rid of the '04 I would in a second. The car vibrates at 80 mph. When the wind hits it is like a sailboat. Lots of wind noise inside. The headlights are pointed too low and you can only see about 10-15 feet ahead of you at night. It doesnt even have a coin holder!!! Definitely, does NOT feel like a BMW.
My BMW 530I
Ron Caterino, 11/22/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is the finest automobile I have ever owned. It drives like a dream, has excellent acceleration and a very smooth ride.
525i Review
bigmike, 01/05/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
525i Auto w/ Premium & Cold Weather Pkgs - Looks great inside & out. (What's all the fuss about? They kept the classic BMW styling cues, but made it sleek, & modern looking.) Lots of convenience features (i.e. driver position memory, dual climate control, free scheduled maintenance, etc.) 2.5L 6-cyl is adequate, but unexciting. Auto transmission is smooth and shifts well. Ride is refined and quiet, as you would expect. Roomy and comfortable interior.
Lengthen your commute
DTveter, 06/07/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is rock solid and perfect for those who need four doors and do not want to sacrifice performance. The thrills continue and I look forward to any excuse for a cruise. My only regret is not having more opportunities to properly drive this car on open highway/backroads. Many of the reviews spend too much time on the iDrive...anyone who has a computer equipped with a mouse and windows should be able to figure it our in 10 minutes. A test drive is the only way to judge this car.
The Ultimate Tool Box
MBZ Lover22348454154, 06/10/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Benz E500 has the same level of handling as the BMW with none of the rough ride. The Benz shocks adjust their damping rate 100 times per second, and have the ability to stop body roll entirely. Does the Bimmer have any of this? Nope 4 plain old shocks that are adjusted to dislodge your molars at the first pothole. A stiff ride does not mean that your car handles better, It just means that it's stiff and LOW Tech. BMW does not offer Nav system until the fall. BMW does not offer Bluetooth until next year. BMW does not offer 7 speed transmission, period.