Used 2004 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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It's a winner!
cowboy359, 09/28/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An fun, exciting car to drive - it's a sports car with four doors - and the active cruse control and the voice activated features make it like something Captain Piccard would be impressed with.
Problems Problems Problems
ReneeBelkin, 10/02/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been in the dealer more than the car. Told flaws are fixed in the next years model! Pain in the rear to get the car in. The problems are repeated cup holders broken, in dash software problems, doors rattle, lights stay on, signals flip to one side then ther other, wheel balance is always pulling,seat adjustment controls and overall one thing or another,.
2004 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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BMW still needs better quality control
the5fans, 10/03/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Own it for 8 day. After shift to reverse and shift back to D, the right mirror sometimes does not tilt up. iDrive sometimes does not start, not even display the main menu. Handling and performance have been improved, a lot better than my 2000 528i.
BMW 530i SMG
Cosme, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got it on March 1st, It is so far the best car ever drove. Better than Audi, Benz, Volvo, etc. No doubt! I have the sport package with Active Steering (if you get used to it, you will never drive something else), roll stabilization. It is well built, strong, very stable, very much fun to drive. Much more fun than the 3 series. Good torch. I simply love it and don't regret ever having it.
WOW! What a car.
sigolfer, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 530i is everything I hoped it would be,when purchasing a BMW, and more. The transmission and motor are smooth and quiet. I am glad it has a MPH warning setting that chimes when the set speed is reached because the car is so smooth and quite you can loose track of how fast you are going. The i- drive is a snap to learn after 20 minutes of practice.The fit and finish is superb and the ride comfort is exceptional.After adjusting to the new style I think it is the best looking car on the road. Great engineering, styling, performance and comfort, what else could you ask for? This is my first BMW and it will not be my last.
should have ordered the sport package
larrycurlymo, 10/10/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the sport package test drive was the hook in my purchase. who would have thought there would be such a differnece in performance? had to bring the car back to the dealer 4 times because of the iDrive glitches. should have waited a couple of months to work out the kinks.
great
paolo, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car i love it. it was worth every penni
Love it
Wasabi, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome. Thats all I can say. This car is the most fun car I have ever drivwen and I have driven a few. I would recommend this highly to anybody looking. The only drawback was I went with the 525 for my wife and I would have rather gotten the 530 for the extra power. Other then that no complaints at all. We got premium and Sports package and the car handles like a dream
big improvement
amys kitchen, 10/09/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great improvements to an already great car
A Beautiful Car
NewBMWOwner, 10/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first saw the new 5 series I was hooked. This is a beautifully designed car. Despite the critics, I love the aggressive, muscular styling. I purchased a 530i in October and had just a little time to explore the car. The car handles great, so smooth and quiet. The interior is gorgeous. I really love this car.
IT IS THE BEST!
Nyker, 10/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Should have the sport package. The handling and stability is out of this world. As a former Lexus owner, I was woorried about the navigation system. It is almost as good, no need to worry. I-drive is not difficult, folks. There are a few interior short falls like cup holder, storage, ash tray(why?). The looks is on the eye of the beholder, although I like it. Bottom line, you won't be able to drive other after driving the 5. But sport package is a must.
A must
Judah, 10/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It has been a fun experience. I love gadgets and the latest trends in technology, it has it all. It has been a blessing.
Gotta Have One
Sircody, 10/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THis has been the best new vehicle purchase I have made. The new style gets people stairing at me all day, and with the V8 engine - everyone ends up behind me.
a long time BMW driver
wanger, 10/23/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While new is usually better, in the case of the new 2004 530, it is not. After driving the 1998 528, and a 330ci, this new 2004 530, while technologically more advanced than the former model, is like driving a large sedan. It does not feet like a drivers care. It feely heavier, the radio controls make it a lot harder to switch between channels, the attention to deatil to save costs are noticeable...no longer is the gear shift knob in wood. Thats a $150 option. The door panels are too large, making the passenger windows too small. If you are a back seat passenger, you are wedged too far down in the seat to be able to look outside. Overall, go find a 2003 530/545 and don't let it go.
Lemon Law
RJC11, 10/23/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car to drive-when I have it. Vehicle has been at the dealer twice for a total of 18 days so far with the same electrical problem. Going back for a third time. 3 Strikes and you're out.
Get rid of the I-Drive
Bill Chipman, 10/26/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The I-Drive is one of the worst ideas ever designed for a car! The engine and performance is great; but over the past year it has been in the shop 5 times with each time having to address the I-Drive. This will be the first and last BMW I ever purchase.
Simply awe inspiring!
Arjun, 11/02/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was hesitant about getting the new body style at first, but now I totally love it! It's handling and agility is so refined that driving becomes effortless. The interior is roomy and the build quality is what you expect from a BMW. The only design flaw I see are the front cup holders. They are awkwardly positioned and only functional in holding one size. Otherwise a gem - I never thought they could improve on the E39's!
UNBMW LIKE
kLAUSLAW, 10/27/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only owned my 545 for three weeks but I am very disappointed so far. I just came off a 2001 525 lease and loved the car. No problems for 3 years. The 2004 seems tinny in comparison to my 2001. Further, I feel the 545 does not handle the road nearly as comfortable as my prior vehicle. It is very bumpy w/the run flat 18 inch wheels and further the active steering is very weird. I still dont get it. It feels like the car is fighting me every time I make a turn. Further if their is a rut in the road the car feels like it does not know what to do and wants to go off the road. Further, the transmission is very unreliable and choppy from the start. Cupholders are rediculous as usual.
Outstanding Safety
Khoa Nguyen, 11/14/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Was T-bone by a tractor trailor and walk away without a scratch.
The 5 just gets better!
Hatzakorzian, 11/16/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Took delivery in Munich and drove 2300 miles in Switzerland and Bavaria with my family Owned a '98 528 and '01 530 before this '04 530; all manuals.This car exceeds performance and luxury of the previous cars. More rear seat, head and luggage room, better ergomics,better brakes,modern body design.Performance-wise,Sport Package and active steering, Swiss passes or Sierra Nevada in California are a dream. This car out-handles the previous cars, even the '01 530 with Dinan stage 2 suspension. iDrive is a blessing unless you want to take your eyes off the road. Easy, intuitive,fast and no clutter of buttons. Not a good system if you multi-task while you drive. A much safer approach if you try!
2004 BMW 530i Sport
Git R Dun, 11/23/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a fantastic car. It rides and handles phenominally. It is quiet and solidly built. It gets good mileage.
4500 miles review
jamesc, 11/26/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I chose European Delivery and picked up my 545i in Munich, Germany. This car is designed to be driven at 100 mph + on German autobahn. At over 100 mph on German autobahn, this car can cruise at ease for hours like its doing 60 mph. The 545 is deceivingly fast and extremely quiet. The fit and finish is excellent. With Sport Package option, the car feels like it can take corners better than a Porsche Boxster. I do not like the 18' Run Flat Tires due to the bouncy feeling. The state of art BMW Valvetronic V8 engine is amazingly smooth and responsive. The cabin is isolated from all outside noise. I prefer to hear the engine and exhaust a little bit more. Overall, a great car so far.
When it works, It's Great
AW, 12/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have owned a '99 323 and a '01 530- Great Cars, no problems. Cannot say the same about '04-530i. When it works, drives great, fun to use stuff inside. Dealer cannot get all the iDrive to work consistently. Fix 1 item, something doesn't work. All 4 tires have been replaced and I still have vibration at 60mph. Dealership cannot figure it out. Going back again for 4th appointment to fix new iDrive problem and tire issues. Only good thing, BMW loaner car (3 series) which drives great. If you can get a 2003 5 series-grab it!
at a glance and gone
morrika, 12/29/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car. I would say the 535i is a great buy based on gas savings durig these times. But power is the name of my game This car handles wonderfully. The sports package is a must. And while enjoying the ride listen to the Harmon Kardon how real can you get? Just a nice all-around confortable drive. This car turns heads, then you're gone and you can't help but smile.
BEST BMW I'VE OWNED!!
LEDEAGLE, 01/27/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a superb machine!! Ive had 3 other BMWs, Mercedes and a Porsche, and this car kills them all. Fuel economy is astonishing, and performance especially on the road is exhilarating.
I'm in love
jlma, 06/05/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am delighted by my 530. It is a joy to drive it. I look for out of town trips in order to really feel the car. It has had no problem, other than a cracked windshield, caused by a stone that a truck tire sent flying into the glass.
One down, two to go
totalsystm, 08/02/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
545i 6-speed. Just an OK rating for a $60K+ car is sad. After a year, still not sold! Started off wrong. Ordered from the factory with, I thought, every option. Nope! At delivery and later through surprises, found out that if BMW builds it with the Navigation System (which frequently attempts to route us through Frankfurt) and the HUD (Heads up display which is great-unless you have polarized glasses, then it becomes invisible), you can not get satellite radio or simply see the names of songs or radio stations (Yes, this is with the high end Sound system option.) No MP3! BMW response, "Sorry". Custom power seats with lumbar support pretty good, but not at all good looking.
I love my 545!
Juneblooms, 11/30/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second BMW. My first was a 3 Series which I also enjoyed. The only reason I traded in my 3 series was due the pressure from my husband to upgrade. Once I drove my 545 just a few times I fell in love. I have never loved a car until I drove this car. I'm a mom and this car was my compromise to Momhood. I have room for three kids in back. Tons of trunk room and a sports car to drive. Yippee. The only bad part is I don't get to play with it very often because I'm usually hauling kids.
E60 verses E39
Brandon Boles, 02/13/2006
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 04, 530i a little over a month ago. So far I am very pleased with the car. Overall it is a dream to drive. It has the sports package and it feels like it's on rails. I also own a 98 540i Sport. The overall compfort and flat out performance is a bit better on the 540 but it should be. It's a v8 car. I believe time will tell, that the 04, 530i will be a more reliable car. Believe it or not, the 540i fuel economy is a little better than the 530i. That may be due to driving habits. My 530 has a 6 speed manual, the 540 has the automatic steptronic transmission.
My 04 530i
Joe G, 03/05/2006
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I very much enjoy driving this car. It is fun to drive and very reliable. I had some computer problems early on, but they were repaired and have had no problems since. I have also had many compliments about the styling and appearance of the car. I will get another one when this lease is finished next year.
530i
Jeanne, 04/16/2006
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been one of the most pleasureable cars to drive and own. I have not needed to pay for anything other then a new tire that was needed after blowing out on I95 and riding on the rim. I was amazed at the control that I still had when the tire blew. I have continued to enjoy this vehicle, and the only improvement I would make, is to have a fence around it in parking lots. Apparently others do not think that the car should be treated well. Of course they didn't pay for it.
Looks Great! Performs Good.
CHDude, 09/18/2007
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Okay, consider the source, here. I am upgrading to the best class of car I have ever owned, but I know what a good and great car is. This is somewhere between good and great. I like what the Germans do with their cars. I like the way they build them. I like the way they design them, but the 530i is high maintenance. However, treat it right, and it will continue to make you happy. The handling on the 530i is unbeatable for a luxury sedan. The engine performance is deceptively good, not great, but good. Nevertheless, the interior is second to none. The looks combined with the great handling and good performance make it barely worth the price for me.
iDrive
vetconstruction, 08/16/2007
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We picked up our low mileage unit a few months ago. It basically has every option aside from the active cruise control. We love this car, we also love the iDrive system. We researched the car to death and wonder why iDrive is so hated. If you can answer an e-mail and actually take the time to read the manual, this system is something to adore. The prologic 7 sound system is the best audio system on the planet. Smooth acceleration and gorgeous styling. We have clocked a few thousand miles and could not be any happier. The nav system is very nice as well.
I Love This Car
Ed, 08/16/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is fun to drive and it makes me smile when I drive it. The dealer was the best I've dealt with, their service department does what it promises. I highly recommend this car and dealer.
Typical BMW
Zac Elkins, 11/06/2019
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great drive! Great handling! Best engine and transmission! Only problem, it's not a reliable car. Typical BMW with all that plastic in the engine bay and hoses. Cheap plastic and cloth on the interior and cheap iDrive system as well.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
It’s time had come
Munro, 02/18/2019
updated 02/27/2023
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
After 180,000 relatively carefree miles, 4 accidents (was rear-ended 4 times in 12 years), and replacing an $1,800.00 headlight, it was time to move on. There was enough not to like about the BMW that I replaced it with a Mercedes E-Class.
Ergonomics
Happy Back, 06/24/2008
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The BMW 530i has an option to upgrade to a supremely adjustable ergonomic seat - a must for long commute times. This throne fit for a king comes in a fantastic package of performance, safety and security and style.
The new 2004 BMW 5
beamerlady, 11/25/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The handling of this vehicle performs like the 7 with the new sport package, except its cheaper. The comfort is like being on your living room couch.You must drive one to fall in love with it, you will never drive another car again.
LOVE MY BMW 2004
ARMY GUY, 12/02/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Everything I want in a car and more!
5 series superstar
Jpse, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Incredible....Lets leave it at That!
nearly perfect
happy SC driver, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had the BMW 530i for only a short time but this may be the best luxury sedan I have ever owned and that list includes top of the line Mercedes Benz, Lexus, Volvo and Infiniti automobiles. It is smooth on turns and powerful on straight runs. It looks great inside and out and is technologically superior to any car I have owned.
I love it!!!
BobAnge, 12/08/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 5 people found this review helpful
This has to be one of the most exciting cars to drive today. I love it!!! A bonus that I didn't even expect was the great mileage I get when driving on the highway... 36MPG!!
love my 5 series
Katy t, 02/22/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I own a 2004 545i BMW and I LOVE this car. I have had so much fun with it, it drives so smooth and comfortable. I have a bad back and so many cars are just not comfortable for me to drive or ride in for a very long time, this BMW is so great I can go at least 6 hours without stopping at all. I also love the new design, I don't understand it when I hear that some don't like the 2004 body style, it looks so sleek and fast (like it is) and going fast, well, that is the best thing about this car it just pulls you and wants to go.
Best Car Ever!
Stephanie weltzien, 02/28/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This Car is amazing. NOt only have i had a chance at being in the car while its being driven.. my father works at BMW so i get a first hand look at what great cars are coming out, when they are coming out and what to look foward to in the new line of cars. But Byfar This car IS amazing in so many ways. Its body style catches peoples admiring eyes, it gets great miles and it is comfortable and a easy ride.It also HAs unbelivable crash test ratings. Making it safe for the whole family to ride in. So hands down this is the best car on he road.
BMW 530i from RLA
RLA, 07/02/2006
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car makes me feel good to drive. I love it! For about the first year, we had some software problems -- nothing that affected performance, but created a nuisance (e.g., couldn't sense CDs in CD changer, difficulty recognizing voice commands). BMW found the problem and upgraded software. Since then, it's problem free. Inside styling is chic, but it's a bit cramped. Little storage room.
530i good mid size sedan
karen Pollock, 05/01/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This BMW is the best value os all the 5 series. It hugs the road like a Porsche yet can easily take the family from Los Angeles to Palm Springs in style and comfort it also handles the freeways as well as the canyons.
Transmission Jolts/Jerks/Clunks; Fuel Ec
Greatly Disappointed, 08/22/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
From speed of, e.g., 30 mph, as gas pedal released to bring vehicle to stop/lower speed (when coasting and/or braking), as vehicle slows driver feels jerk/jolt forward a number times as vehicle shifts/lurches down from gear to gear (seems to be caused by abrupt increase, and then decrease in speed; and sometimes associated with a clunking sound) as it comes to a stop. At a stop, when placed in reverse, and after releasing the brake pedal, without depressing the gas pedal, the vehicle suddenly moves in a backward motion and reaches a speed in excess of 5 mph. BMW&service states: "normal" conditions.
Commuting is fun now!!!!
PrimaDawna, 08/28/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my new 525i. I was in the market for a E300 and I said, what the hell, let's stop at BMW..fully prepared to hate them. My car drives like a dream. It handles like it's on rails and I have the confidence of knowing my car will do what I want. I now look forward to my 50 minute commute to work through the crowded So. California freeways. If I had known I enjoyed driving so much, I would have spent the extra $$ for the bigger engine.