Used 2005 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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Buyer Beware!!
I had 3 cars sitting in my garage, one was a BMW 545i (2005) one is a GMC Envoy (2002) and the other is a Toyota Tacoma Truck (1996) The BMW continued to leak oil all over the garage until I finally sold it. The Envoy and the Tacoma have about 200,000 miles each and I doubt that I have even spent $500 combined on the 2 of these cars since I have owned them. The BMW has been nothing but problems with every maintenance bill being at least $1,000. Just a battery alone for the car is almost $500! The car was the best driving car I have ever owned but reliability was the worst of any of the 20 cars I have owned since I first started driving. I traded it recently for a Toyota!
Fun to drive, not without issues
I bought mine in 2008 with 28K miles. I sold my 2003 325i to get this car. Just like the 3 series, I LOVE the way this car drives. The power, acceleration and steering are incredible. It's super smooth at high speeds - you just don't know you're speeding! After about 50K miles I was experiencing jerkiness in the transmission. Sometimes at a stop the engine would race and I'd have to shove my foot on the brake. I mentioned it several times to my dealer and finally, at 99K miles (I had the extended warranty) I asked to have a mechanic ride with me and I got a new transmission :) Cupholders suck; don't like the iDrive and interior is so-so, but I still like the car!
- 545i SedanMSRP: $7,95021 mi away
- 525i SedanMSRP: $2,000512 mi away
- 545i SedanMSRP: $9,995905 mi away
Great Car, but not Cheap to maintain
I've had my car for a few years now and put a good bit of miles on it. I've got 120,000 miles. I've changed the battery, tires, oil, spark plugs, all the regular maintenance and it drives great. But it's a BMW and parts are not cheap. . . it's also not cheap to have someone put them in for you. If you want a car that is Cheaper to keep going, drive a Toyota or a Honda. If you want to enjoy driving your car get a BMW. Previously I've had an Rx-8, MiniCooper Sport, Lexus SC430 and a Honda Accord.
I love my 5 Series but not the major issue
I love to drive my 525i, but it would be a lot more enjoyable with some sort of stereo. CCC module went out and is $1700 to replace. Out of my budget and almost inevitable to go out in this model. This controls navigation and all the service lights so I love my car a lot less than I could have. How I wish BMW would recall their obvious faulty CCC module so this car could be the great car it was meant to be.
Here is why the BMW 2005 530i is the Ultimate car
This car rides like a dream little to no problems. I had this car 5 years and it was almost maintenance free besides the normal oil change, brakes and fuel and fluid flush. This car is a must buy if you want a great driving and looking BMW for a great price.
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Loves it
Owned my 2005 530i for 3 years and never had one problem with it. Drove like a dream and always loved driving it. I put on about 12,000 a year mostly city driving and it performed great. A little tight up front (I'm 6'3) but overall the space inside is good. The interior design is very good the bluetooth always worked great with my phone and IDrive didn't bother me once I got used to it. The cup holders are ok they're not to bad never had a problem with them. The car is also very safe I got into an accident and the car held up great. Just recently sold it with 57,000 miles I upgraded to a 2008 535xi I hope I have the same luck with it !
Brake Booster failure with 53K miles
I am very disappointed to drive with a supposedly quality build car just to figure out it started to fail breaking while waiting in the car line to pick up my children. Unbelievable, I needed a full replacement of the brake booster and the brake Master cylinder after only 52K miles. Good luck to all of you driving this car which almost became a liability for me. That will be my first and last BMW ever.
Fragile buyer beware
My 2nd 5 series in 7years; This car is fun to drive,power and performance cant be matched, but it comes at heavy price. Oil leaks,check engine signs,transmission glitch all expensive repairs occurring before 100k. All repairs average $1200, because of the name BMW.l was disappointed as this was my second BMW ,l will not recommend it .
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Im depressed
The Ultimate Driving Machine sucks in terms of reliability. I bought my first and last BMW 3.5 years ago while it was still under their their Warranty/Maintenance plan. However, I have had leak after leak before and after the warranty expired. I think I have replaced the whole cooling system and oil system. Every day before I drive my car, I have to check the undercarriage plate to see if I got another coolant or oil leak. Plus the "engine malfunction, increased emissions" light always come on and the engine start shaking and its always caused by a different part. Do not buy unless you plan to buy several extended warranties and pray the parts are covered.
Great Car
My wife fell in love with this car when she saw it. This is our first BMW and we are very satisfied. I am 6'4 and 280 pounds and there is tons of leg room for me front and back. in fact my favorite spot in the car is riding in the back. This car drives great and handles perfect. I only wish we would have spent the extra money and got the 530 to have more power. Don't get wrong it has great power but only after you get up to 40-50 mph. There is no initial pick up in the 6 cyl, but its great at higher speeds. Gears and smooth and precise. go for it and get one. It is the best driving car we ever had.
Automatic Transmission Issues
In all, the 545i is a well-balanced rig -- amazingly fast and agile for a car of its size and comfort. My car has been plagued with electrical issues however, and a glitch with the transmission is enough to force me to replace it. When driving under slight power between 35 and 40 mph, the car feels as if there is a disruption in the fuel delivery or ignition. When I first demonstrated this to the dealer, a tech said it was the transmission, it was normal, and by shifting it to sport mode I could eliminate the issue. Unacceptable, in my opinion. This isn't "normal" behavior for any car, and I don't want to drive in sport mode to fix a transmission malfunction. Major buzz kill.
Super Car, with Problems
I know the service techs far more than I should for such a great car. Do NOT put anything liquid in the trunk and expect not to fry your iDrive. Some idiots in Germany made the trunk porous and put the iDrive electronics package in the trunk, so if you have cooler and it tips over, immediately get out your rags, etc., and get that water out. I have fried the iDrive twice in this way, and it cost a bundle to fix it. Really poor engineering.
Not Bad!
Ive owned this 2005 BMW 545i for 1 year, bought it used with 88,000 miles. Replaced windshield washer pump, 2 spark plugs and ignition coils and lost radiator screw. The first and secondary air pump valves need to be flushed out to correct lost power notification on dash. Wonderful handling vehicle and fast and powerful. I have installed 8.8 Android device in place of manufacture display to keep it up to date. I have just hit 100021 and expect to do an oil change soon and brake shoe replacement. I hook up battery maintainer once a week to keep the battery at its highest potential due to this vehicles pc never sleeps. The interior and exterior shines up well. Other than that, I have no other problems and hope it holds up at least until it hits 200,000 miles.
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NIGHTMARE VEHICLE
This is my first BMW purchase and it has been a nightmare from day 1. The iDrive has caused problems, the steering rack had to be replaced at 6,000 miles, the run flat tire sensor continually shows up whether I have a flat tire or not. BMW is unwilling to take this vehicle back. They stated that the car has ONLY been in the shop 20 times, which is not enough according to their standards. NEVER again I will purchase a BMW!!!
Well, I always wanted one
This is my 37th car in my life (more cars than years old) and I always wanted a 5 Series and now I fianlly got one. It is exactly what I wanted performance-wise, powerful, smooth and great handling. I have yet to feel the tranny shift, it is butter smooth. The comfort is excellent, I have both Sport and Premium pkgs and nav. The fit and finish are perfect and the brakes are great. My only complaints? Lack of storage - my cell phone resides on the shelf provided by the nav system. And apparently the computer is skewed, the other day my gas gauge read just under half tank, the computer told me I had 73 miles to empty, yet the fuels light came on and I had to put 17 gals into an 18 gal tank?
2005 BMW 5 - Never Better
My 3rd new BMW. Almost didn't buy due to Consumer Reports ratings and negatives about iDrive.Tried comparable Mercedes and Lexus but they don't compare. Glad I stuck with the BMW. Traveling 60 miles daily on Pkwy and Tnpk, the ride is smooth, totally insulated, comfortable (cabin's larger) and responsive, like it understands. Driver's in control. No matter how long you drive it, it will continue to make you shake your head and smile. It out-manuevers any vehicle.Trust me.And iDrive took nothing to work. It's a computer with lots of options and visuals a traditional dash board display would be hard to accomodate. Conflicted? Drive one yourself. Don't rely only on ratings.
Alabama Review
I enjoy the vehicle overall. I experience some problems with the transmission that revs up when going down a hill which bother me. I understand there is a recall for the exhaust system so will have to take it in for that also.
Stay away from 545i
Great handling but there it ends. One of the most unreliable cars I've owned (and I've had Italian cars!). Some of the problems the dealer has been unable to fix because they are fundamentally flawed: radio (because of terrible computer in the car), transmission shifts. If you need to find it, look in the shop.
Best 2nd Hand Car Ever!
I purchased my 2005 530i second-hand from a reliable source at 89,000 miles and surpassed 435,000 miles and still going strong!!! I know that BMW has a reputation about the high cost of maintenance, but I will say that the cost-per-mile on this car, has been the lowest I have ever experienced to date (including replacing the original transmission at 290,000 miles)....and this includes my previous Acura's, Honda's, Lincoln and Dodge. Did I luck out or is this what us old timers honestly believed....In the end, quality products cost less.
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Top of its class!
The car is great, loaded with all the features (premium, sport, cold-weather, navigation, etc) although rather pricey. The car is an absolute joy to drive, and handles like a dream. The performance isn't the greatest, i recommend not getting 530 because the 530i isn't such a great investment. If you want power, just go with the V8, its not much difference the 530 with 525. However, the quality of the car is great, and it is a real head turner. The leather has great quality, as well as the dash, real wood, and other things. What I don't like is the cost to own, but I guess you should expect it since you own a BMW. Also bothers me that everything is optional. (htd. seats, mp3, cd changer, etc)
Fun Car
My first BMW and I love it. I did have the car in the shop 3 times. 1st exhaust sensor went out. 2nd the car had to be towed to the shop...bad oil pressure sensor... I decided to trade-in for LEXUS reliability but after I test drove LEXUS I decided to keep my BMW. I just can't give-up the BMW performance... and I still have the warranty.
BMW DUD
I have had my BMW less than a month and it has already had to be at the dealership 4 times to be repaired. It is stil not fixed. I don't know how this vehicle gets a 9.2 rating on this web-site. I have driven this car approx. 360 miles and 260 of that has been to the dealship to get it repaired. Think long and hard before you buy one. I called BMWNA (customer relations) and they told me to take the problem up with the dealership, they weren't trained to handle this kind of problem. Since I bought this car I have yet to find anyone that owns a BMW that says they have not had multiple problems with their car. Beware.
I-drive (CCC system) is an issue
I LOVE this car. It is fun to drive and is sporty while still being a 4-door sedan. It handles well and really does adjust to your driving style which I really love. There is one BIG issue, the iDrive system that controls the a/c, heat, radio, entertainment, etc. It malfunctions about twice a year and the dealership acts as if they've never seen anything like it. (After researching, it is evident this is an ongoing issue with 5-series.) They did replace my CCC/ iDrive unit while under the warranty but now it is doing it again! This time it's NOT under warranty and it is quoted to cost thousands of dollars to fix this computer module! This issue needs to be resolved.
Doesn't age well
I've pretty much had problems with this vehicle every since I've had it, namely cam sensors needing constant replacing, placement of fuels in trunk panel, and my CD player has eaten the CD. It's not worth the money spent.
I love my Beemer but
the reliability issue after about 70k miles is an issue and parts and labor are VERY expensive-example the front headlight unit wiring shorted out and the replacement unit alone was $1500-the unit is one whereby the lights rotate with the direction the steering wheel turns and is wired so as to have to replace entire unit rather than rewire. At 180K miles I replaced the AC compressor for the third time. Many other issues also, all expensive. On the positive side the cars is a dream to drive-great road car- and even at my 6'-2" height is quite comfortable. The 3'0 liter six provides plenty of power and gets decent mileage. Bottom line-if you want to drive a BMW lease a new one or be prepared to spend much time and money in repair shops.
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Great Car
After owning Benzes for 10 years, I was a little hesitant about owning a 530, but my apprehension was misplaced. This is a great car, handles much better than the Benz and the fit and finish is superb. This car handles like it is on tracks with little roll. I feel very safe in the car and iDrive is very easy to use. Geting close to 30mpg on the highway much to my suprise. I love it!
270,560 miles and still going strong
Repair costs can be expensive
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Good Vehicle
This is an excellent vehicle to get around in Houston traffic, good gas mileage with enough pick up to get on the highway without being run over.
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Happy all around
Given that I choose the lowest HP engine, I am impressed how well it still performs, especially on the highway. I don't miss one Hp. I took it for a 1500 mile roadtrip and had the most delightful drive I have ever had. I have owned over 50 cars - so far the only section any other car performed better was in acceleration because I had cars with big engines as well.
On top of E-Class!
Outstanding road characteristics, very pleasant even at long journeys, the i- drive is very practical and simple, the best engine, very good interior space and luggage compartment. Don't compare it to the E-Class! Nothing can be compared to the 5 star 5 SERIES!
lovin it
The best car I have ever drove.
Best Car I've ever Owned
I thought the 5-series was out of my price range, but because I own an business and leased for 3 years I was able to easily afford one. I like the comfort and look inside, the width of the seats, and the excellent ride. Only problem so far has been a flat which made me want the run-flat tire. Fuel mileage has been better than expected and snow performance has been fine. Good sound system and I find the iDrive easy to use. Whenever I am in other cars I notice the multitude of ugly buttons and appreciate the clean design. Display is easily readable in any light.
Gold nugget dipped in tar
I do most repairs myself including the expensive ones that everyone whines about (simple repairs by the way) this car has an impressive engine and handling. The "catch" is keeping up with her needs. ONCE the few flaws are taken care of, this car is golden.. i used to own only v8 chevys. Dont let clueless people that are afraid to fix their own car discourage you. This car has been great, would buy a second one if i could
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Best car I've ever had!!
I have had just about every make of automobile (cadillac, jaguar, porsche, s2000 and trucks), and this 5 series is the overall best car I've ever had. The only problem is the 6 cylinder is a little underpowered. But that is what I bought. Am looking to order a new 8 cylinder, and take delivery in Germany.
After 4500 miles of fun driving
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. The state of art BMW Valvetronic V8 engine is amazingly smooth and responsive. The braking and handling inspire confidence in the driver. The cabin is isolated from all outside noise. I prefer to hear the engine and exhaust a little bit more. BMW 545 is my 4 door sport car TOY!
545i w/sport suspension 2 yr impressions
Excellent handling, one of the best cornering cars ever with the active roll stabilizers. The car is safe, smooth and fast, however, the electronic throttle seems to make the acceleration feel a little less tight. The sport suspension gives a little too much clunk for my preference, but if cornering is your priority, the harsher ride can be overlooked. Quality of construction is excellent and solid. I feel the dash could be better looking. Overall, if you're looking for performance, this car has to be considered.
German Junk
Overall a TOTAL waste of your money...less than 100,000 miles and oil leaks/ (I Drive) went out/Transmission went out/window and headlight seals deteriorated/seemed as though every week something went south. BMW has figured out EVERY way possible to drain their customers of cash. Do your research...BMW & Mercedes have some of the lowest rating for dependability! German Junk! R.H. Thompson
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My BMW 545i Six Speed
BMW gave the owners of the older E39 a reason to trade up. The newer E60 is so different in terms of improved handling and balance its hard to believe they came from the same company. I took possession of the car in Munich so I got to drive it on the Autobahn. Wow, what a thrill. When a car is designed to travel safely at 130 mph, it's even safer at 70 mph. It's so well thought out in every detail that it seems every design feature has it's own complex rationale. It is probably the the perfect car for me.
Best car I have ever owned.
I traded in an 04 Merz C-320 for this car. Best trade I ever made. This is an all around outstanding car. The car handles well is comfortable and quiet. I have the luxury package and the sport package. Both options are worth the money.
Still the best
This is my third 5, and the first 8 cylinder version I've owned. Great engine, solidly built car, and the best mid-sized luxury sedan available. My only regret is that the 545 in the non-sport model configuration only offers an automatic transmission - not as fun as my previous manual but if I had to take an auto, I couldn't have done better than this. I heard so many negative comments about i- drive, I was prepared for the worst. Now that I use it, I can't imagine what people were talking about. It's very intuitive, and gives me greater control over the vehicle and my driving experience. BMW will be vindicated as having been ahead-of-the curve on this groundbreaking interface.
I Love Going Fast
The 2005 BMW styling is great. All avid 5 series owners fall in love with it sooner or later. My favorite aspect of the car is its reliability, I've had to fix nothing! Pretty fast with the V8, does 0-60 in 5.5 sec and is wonderfully smooth through the transitions. Great fuel economy for a V8 at 18 city and 26 hwy The sports suspension with active steering does wonders and the interior is really well done. BMW continues to be a leader in the auto industry.
BMW 525i 2005 review
This car is awsome to drive, its, fast for the size of engine. It is very solidly built. The ergonomics are awesome, and the interior layout of controls are very easy to use, and easy to operate while driving. The handling is terrific, it drives itself pratically no body roll.
A Luxury Rocket Ship.....
The 545i is the finest vehicle I've ever owned... Sports car like feel in speed and handling, luxurious and comfortable for extended trips... With extremely attractive styling, other drivers always staring at it...
Couldn't be happier!!!
Glad I stepped up to the car I really wanted. Was sold on 530, with premium and cold weather package, but really liked the power of the 545. Traded in my '99 M3 Convertible, which was one of the most exciting cars I have owned, but now with the 545, I now have a rocket with more room and luxury. Considered the new M45, A6 4.2, and Lexus GS, but after driving all, you realize why BMW is the one they are all striving to be.
Great car... very fun to drive.
I purchased this vehicle with 9,500 miles on the Odometer. It has been an incredible car. Fast, reliable, comfortable and economical. I drive very aggressive yet still average 23mpg overall in LA's bumper to bumper traffic...amazing mileage! We also own a 06 330xi...also a great car - a lot more nimble than the 5 series when driving twisty roads...but the 545I can easily keep just using the extra power.
fun to drive
Love the car. Just picked it up last week. Fun, very fast, and with the sport package it is on rails driving. I have pushed the car and have yet to hear the tires even start to slide or squeal. The only thing I don't like is that the beverage holders stink.
545: Drive it, buy it.
I did. I was bored. It was rainy. I had the kids. I decided to test drive the new 5. Since I owned (and loved) a 530i (2002), I had no intention of buying the new model. Long story short, I test drove a 545, and I was sold. Not only is power, cornering, and ride vastly superior to the prior 5, the interior and trunk is larger, and the interior is better laid out. After a few minutes of minor haggling, the papers were signed and I was behind the wheel of a new silver grey 545i beauty. I drove it all weekend. Even the kids enjoyed it.
BMW545i
I love everything about the car but the iDrive control. Gas mileage is far less than stated on the sticker.
Sheer Driving Pleasure All Right!
We thoroughly enjoy our fully loaded BMW 545 sports sedan. We have driven ALL the competitors, including many bona fide sports cars, but none is better overall than this ride. From the awesome power, razor sharp handling, luxury appointments, everything is very refined and simply world class. And because we also have a Dinan-S1 tuned 545er, the premier BMW tuner in North America, our car is a truly one-of-a- kind special ride. The Dinan suite of high performance upgrades, which includes such goodies as advanced engine management software, high flow air intake systems, free flow exhaust, suspension systems, ultra lightweight wheelsets and huge Brembo brakes, has made our ride TRULY sublime.
Awesome Car!
This is one of the best cars I have ever had. I now have 36000 miles on mine, a 545i, and it is just as good, if not better, than when it was new. The build quality is impeccable and the performance beyond reproach.