Used 2006 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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Very Pleased
We purchased CPO, the same as our long term 2002 5 series, and didn't think I could like it more than what I already had. Well, I do. These cars feel as if they are carved out of one solid block of steel and drive/handle like nothing else. It is luxurious, incredibly sporty and awesome. Probably the absolute best value there is in a high end car.
Inconsistent Idle
15 year BMW owner. This car/engine has an idle issue. If you are thinking of buying one observe how it idles after reaching temperature. As you stop, the car idle drops to normal. 2 seconds later it drops, shakes the car, returns to normal. Happens a lot. Been to dealer 6 times. Have driven other 2006 and 2007 530s and noted the SAME issue although some vehicles not quite as noticeable. Worried about long term viability of this car.
- 530xi WagonMSRP: $6,995101 mi away
- 530xi SedanMSRP: $5,500113 mi away
- 530xi SedanMSRP: $6,300261 mi away
2006 530i Disappointment
I have taken the car back 7 times in a little over a year for repairs. I am very disappointed with BMW and will not buy another. The day I picked the car up I had to return it because the SOS system was not working, iDrive went out, the sunroof had to be repaired to work correctly, warning for high battery drain (2 times), window anti-trap warning, rough idle.
The Best!
By far the best vehicle I have ever owned. Fast, reliable, and fun to drive.
BMW 530i I'm Loving it!
I have owned 2 Maximas and 1 Pathfinder since I have been purchasing vehicles. Now that I finally earned enough money to purchase a BMW I cannot ever drive any other vehicle. The 530i is the most pleasurable vehicle I have ever driven. The interior and exterior quality far exceed any other vehicle I've ever driven. The new 530i design will withstand the test of time as far as style. Loving it, with no regrets on the money spent.
The Ultimate Drivers Car
BMW 5 series is the ultimate luxury car this side of $50K. Its ride and feel is sporty yet comfortable and smooth and quiet. I bought a CPO 530i which was 3 yrs used for $30K with only 25K miles on it and Premium pack, Navigation and Xenon lights but no Sport pack. The ride is smooth and refined for everyday commute and long journey yet very tight and balanced for the mountain curves and quick maneuvers. The 6 speed auto transmission is AWESOME and it feels like a Japanese V8 as per power delivery goes. The turning circle is awesome. The fuel economy is amazing as I get 25 mpg combines for my mostly highway commute and 20 local mostly city commute when my wife drives it.
My review.
I just recently purchased the 2006 BMW 530i from a dealer in Phoenix drove it back to Canada and the whole time I was driving it I never was once bored. Two and a half days of straight driving and I wish I were still driving it. Driving through the mountains was great - it handled the turns perfectly. I love this vehicle.
Considerations when choosing
The 530i is the most balanced of the 5 series meaning good performance & the ability to get good fuel economy. Sports suspension is a case where less is more. These cars already handle well, sports suspension makes the ride stiff. Bolsters on the sports seats makes entry and exit more difficult. (Sports suspension is distinguished by the black trim above the windows, 7 spoke wheels and contoured frt seat bolsters.) Early pdn '06 530s had traditional key start; later models had push button start/stop. IDrive: basic music and HVAC functions can be handled by dash controls; complex functions by iDrive. IDrive may not be good for occasional drivers who could be distracted by it. Fun car!
Amazing
Wow... I had wanted a BMW for years, and finally pulled the trigger on a 525i CPO. I didn't see the need for the 530, as I believe the 215 HP on the 525 was enough. Amazing handling, feel, and I love the iDrive. I understand the griping, but all it takes is a few minutes of studying, and I love it.
Dissapointed
This is my first BMW. I find it a good handling car, but with POOR RELIABILITY. I will sell it at 65,000 miles. The straw that broke the camel back is the need for a new transmission, after a new radiator,etc. I am just 15,000 mi over the warranty limit, and I see nothing but expenses ahead. So GOOD BY BMW for me.
06 530i - A Great Improvement
After two days with this new 530i, I'm thrilled I bought the vehicle. Engine responds flawlessly and acceleration is instantaneous. Logic 7 Premium Sound System is a tremendous feature for audiophiles like me. No changes in body or interior design or style over the 05, but the new magnesium/aluminum engine is unbelievable.
A Car for the Enthusiast!
Some people purchase cars strictly to get from point A to point B, I am not one of those people. I have always been a car enthusiast, and the 1st time I drove a BMW, I got a rush similar to the moto-cross racing days of my youth. What a machine! The sweet sound of a BMW in-line six approaching the red line is unmatched by any other manufacturer. I test drove Lexus, Mercedes, Infiniti, Audi, all fine cars, but they just don't have the BMW "tight" feel as you carve through corners and rip down the highway.These cars feel solid and planted to the road. The iDrive system is a breeze to use, no complaints. I did put two 10 inch subs in the trunk to boost the bass, and all is well!!
the dream machine ?
After years of owning Mercedes I decided to go for the bmw based on the good reviews and a very favorable test drive. I bought mine with the sport package. What was I thinking buying mercedes? This is so far the best driving experience I ever had. I regret not buying one before. Build quality and performance are outstanding, as well as confort. Once you get the hang og it, the I drive is actually helpfull. My first taste of BMW has left me already wondering about the M models. If you are thinking about a car in this price range.... think no more, this is it.
Absolutely Perfect!
Love this car more than any other. Purchased sports package, winter package and upgraded further to 19" special order BMW rims w/new michelins (handles even better than with stock), had dealer tint windows (hot in NC during summer). Handling is perfect. Also negotiated for iPod hook up which is now a necessity. iDrive & bluetooth easy to use if you spend a few minutes with it. Less buttons on dash is good - hate a cluttered console. Haven't had a single problem with anything. This car is absolutely gorgeous. I can't count the number of compliments I get on it and mostly from men who are surprised it's driven by a woman :-)
The new BMW 5 series
Great new design! parked next to a 2003 5 series yesterday, what a drastic change! The former looked dated and conservitive, mine, a modern refreshing design. Every mile in the car puts a smile on my face and makes each day that much more fun!
550i
First BMW. Ex Porsche guy. Surprised at performance and balance - simply excellent. IDrive is nonsense. In and of itself it's not so hard to use, just plain silly. Can't even check oil accurately. Have yet to figure out how to store a radio station. Sat radio, though, is outstanding. Nav system w/ voice activation is almost useless as apparently German written instructions don't decipher into understandable English. The extra $240 for the 2nd year road assist is a waste. Got most options except heads up display & wish I had checked the headlight auto bright control option. Would have been nice to have. No real problems.
First Time Buyer
Looked for over a year at Lexus GS, Infiniti M35, & Mercedes E. Never even thought about a BMW! For grins & giggles and not having anything else to do, though I would test drive a 5 Series, (assuming I would not like it). Wow was I impressed! Not only did it drive like it was on rails, but it was a smooth ride (no sports package). After numerous test drives, I was hooked. Never liked the previous 5 body style, (too boring). Know that the current body style is controversial, but nothing else looks like it. Strongly considered the M35, but even though it was cheaper and had more toys on it, I thought that it was just to much "fluff". Do concern myself with realibility? Time will tell?
Best car Ever had
We test drove so many cars of its class and I thought it will will stop when I drove the E500 MB. Guess what not even close. After I drove the 550i. I just couldn't see myself in any other car but a BMW 550i
Beyond Perfection
If I could only drive one car in the world it would definitely be a BMW 5 Series. I can't imagine another car that is able to combine every possible positive trait imagineable all into one amazing package like this BMW can. It is no surprise though, every other 5 Series I have owned has been a joy, why should this one be any different. With every generation this car improves in every possible way, even when you think it is not possible fo any more improvements, BMW always comes through.
Best 5 Series yet
I have had three BMWs including the all time favorite E39 1998 528i. This is a better car in all regards. Big car feel, much more power and great features such as idrive and bluetooth. It makes the E39 look old. My 2006 E60 has been flawless. The ride is perfect. I read the reviews at other sites on other cars and you can tell that the true BMW lovers that couldn't get past the new look are desperately trying to console themselves. They wanted a 5 series BMW, didn't buy one and are going out of their way trying to justify it to themselves. This is the best car on the road. And, I get 23 MPG in city driving.
Great improvements!
I used to have a 95 525i and found it was getting to be time to upgrade, so I traded up to a 2006 530i with manual transmission and navigation. Wife really wanted the manual, great gas mileage (30 hwy) and the car can really go with 6-speed transmission. Interior is great, iDrive is easy, if you have patience. No need for Tokyo lights, great to have cleaner lines. Bigger room in back seat for 2-3 people and truck is nice in size. Very happy to have the car!
Comfort, Handling & Beauty
The precision steering and comfort of the new 525 makes BMW's 2006 a winner. Not a negative word can be stated about this car. From the computer to exterior beauty, all is handled with ease and so much fun to drive! Like other BMW products, the owner will never be disappointed.
Best BMW Yet!
I have had three BMWs including the heralded 1998 E39 528i. The 2006 530i is better in every way. Better ride, better handling, more room and much better seats. This car makes the E39 look old. This is the best car BMW has made yet.
Great Vehicle
This is our first BMW. My wife has driven Volvo, Lexus and Acura products in the past. All of those vehicles have been nice but have lacked the driving experience of the 530i. This car is truly a sports sedan. We drove the Audi A6, Lexus GS and Infiniti M and felt this vehicle and the A6 were truly driver's cars. This is our first German vehicle and we had some concern about reliability, however, the car has been solid.
The most fun on the road
This car handles so easily and it has a safe and sturdy feel on the road. Plenty of power for on and off the highway. The iDrive isn't as difficult to operate as some have claimed. Just take some time to learn it; pick your settings; that's it. The heated steering wheel is a real luxury. Interior appointments very nice.
Cracks in 18-inch wheels/run-flat tires
BWM refuses to acknowledge that their rims are defective and crack as a result of normal driving, especially their 18 inch rims when coupled with run-flat tires. We don't take speed bumps at 40 mph, run over curbs, or not slow for a potholes... events that might possibly crack a rim or break a tire. Yet BMWs excuse for not replacing 2 cracked rims was that the cracks must have been caused by the driver, not faulty rims/run-flat tire combination. In the past several years we have owned 3 BMWs... but this will be our last because of such a head-in-the-sand approach taken by BMW NA.
530i BMW
Driving this car is just plain fun. Handling is excellent. The new 255HP engine is very responsive, with plenty of power. Comfort seats are worth the extra money, very comfortable and easily adjustable. Quality control seems to have improved since introduction of the e60 model in 2004. I-Drive is not as difficult as many reviewers have made it out to be. The learning curve varies as to how much you have used a computer. It allows the dash to have a cleaner look to it. So far, the car has been a pleasure to drive and own.
550i
Had the car 9 months now, and love it. Did have trouble with the VANOS system, and the car was at the dealer for 3 weeks early on. No problems now. Has great acceleration and handling even with out the sport suspension.
The 5 is Awesome
It is impossible to find a flaw in this car! The bigger 6 cylinder seems to kick more than 255 ponies - great acceleration. Build and fit are perfect so far. Tired of hearing about iDrive!
fun
This by far is the best car I have ever driven! The handling and comfort is incredible. It is a lot of fun to drive and looks great the body style catches everyone eye!!!
'06 BMW 530i A Great Improvement
I traded in my 05 525i on my new 06 530i. The increase in horsepower to 255 makes all the difference in the world. I've got over 2000 miles on the new BMW and the fuel economy is even better than with the smaller engine on my 05. I'm averaging 23 mpg city/hway combined and over 32 mpg on the highway in cruise control. The performance of the new 06 is far superior to the 05 and the fuel economy even better.
Great Car BUT....
Just purchased a 2006 525i this week. This is my second BMW (just upgraded from a 3-series to a 5-series). Overall driving performance of car is outstanding. Like the design, however, I think the technology could be improved. The idrive takes a bit getting used to but is easy to learn. Disappointed to find out that Bluetooth on cellphone not compatible w/ BMW system (I have a new Motorola MPx220 Smartphone w/ Cingular)-apparently PDA- phones like Blackberries, Smartphones, iPaq's, etc. are not compatible w/ BMW system
06 SMG Dream Ride
Purchased 06 CPO with 37k miles. After researching for 2yrs, finally purchased gray beauty. The balance and performance are amazing.Purchased the SMG model, it took a little getting used to, but is truly fun to drive. Many of the reviews about iDrive scared me, but after the initial set up, the iDrive is great. It makes driving easier. We have the Sirius Satellite and this makes long drives a pleasure for all.The ride? Amazing, with active steering and Sports package a great combination. The seats are great and it is truly a fun ride. Great value for a used car, make sure you have a car warranty and service warranty. Can be costly.
Am I Alone
I am currently driving 5 series 06 model & it is an absolute joy & delight to drive. It is indeed the Ultimate Driving Machine. Here is my dilemma: One month after I got the car, I got a Check Control Message & the IDrive indicated "High Battery Drain!" As per the dealer, I need to drive the car more often because the car has a lot of power & it not good to keep it parked for a long time. I was driving it twice a week & still got the message. I called the dealer again took it twice to the dealer in less than a week. Conclusion: There is a software problem that makes this message pop up & the problem is being worked on in their main office in New Jersey.
Dissapointing 524i
This car first and foremost is weak. It is a big car with no wow factor. Do not purchase premium package because you'll get bored quickly. There is no exhilaration factor, nothing that stands out except good steering. The weird curves on this car make it somewhat confusing when backing up as it is very bloated. Electronic throttle makes the car seem not connected with the driver, there seems to be a delay. The looks are not impressive, I thought this was a car and not a spaceship. This car is a huge disappointment as I have compared it to my brothers 2001 BMW 525i which looks better and somehow feels more reliable and nicer to drive, has some more oomph to it. Do not be fooled.
There's no competition
When speaking of my alpine white with black leather interior 2005 BMW 545i, I couldn't have chosen a better car for my first vehicle ever. There is so much to be said about this car. The performance is so gratifying the look is so gorgeous. I cant't go a day without looking at this beautiful machine and thanking the man upstairs for the blessing of owning it. Anyone who's even considering getting one, I'd tell them don't even think twice about it. Once you've driven a Beamer theres no turning back, you're hooked.
First BMW - Fantastic!
My first BMW. It's true-it is a fantastically fun car to drive. Handles so well, especially cornering, and you do have a real sense of the road and being in command of the vehicle. And unlike many reviews from existing BMW owners, I find the new styling very attractive and much more muscular and sporty looking than the last two style versions. Nice to get all the compliments from friends admiring the 530i's sleek and dynamic lines. Very impressed with the maintainance features. I-Drive was confusing for the first 20-30 minutes, but sitting in the driveway with the owner's manual and going through a few things makes it simple enough. Only 3 months into my new BMW and very satisfied.
Fantastic Five
We love our new 525i. It has great pickup and spectacular fuel economy. On a recent trip we averaged over 31 miles to the gallon and went almost 500 on one tank of gas. We recommend the Navigation with voice activation. It is great.
My Second 530i
This 2006 530i is my fourth BMW, and the best yet. The combination of performance, comfort and excellent fuel mileage is unmatched in other vehicles. Like many others, I had concerns about the iDrive, but it has proven relatively easy to use and get used to managing. Interior comfort and quiet is exceptional, and those who complain about the cup holders in the 2006 must not have owned a BMW from the early 2000's, or they would appreciate the engineer's efforts to improve them. I have only owned the vehicle a short time, but it is delivering 23+ mpg in primarily city commuting. Highway touring is smooth, quiet and comfortable. Overall, this is the nicest all around vehicle I've owned.
The best car I ever drove!
After test driving several competitors, the BMW won my heart 2 minutes into my 30 minute test drive. It is true what everybody says, a BMW really does feel and drive differently than any other car. You have to drive it, to really appreciate it. My search for the perfect car has ended. Great job BMW.
It's OK, but too slow...
I've had two problems, I can live with them till service. One is annoying with the sun roof. It operates, but BANGS/pops closing most times. Close once, bang, open close again, less bang. Seems most awful when hot, car parked. Anyway, I've had 530s previously...very nice. My 525, I thought the quicker 6 spd autotrans, it would have more zip. Seems very anemic on the highway and byway! Bodystyle I've grown to appreciate and like. The competition is copying it. Also I now know if I pass my bodystyle on the road, it's an '04 or later.
Love this machine!
In 2003, my friend bought 325i. Since then I just fell for looks, but I didn't like the size. So I have been dreaming to get 5 series. This 06 model coming in all wheel drive, motivated me to buy 525xi. It's my dream come true. I like the way they redesigned the exterior different for each class. That way, any one can recognize which series is it, from front and back :). 3 series owners may not like it, but I love it.
Nice blend of sporty and practical
I originally bought the 530 when my daughter was born (traded in my 04 Infiniti G35 coupe). I needed a car that was sporty but could also be used as a family vehicle, the 530 did not disappoint. This is my second 530, the first was an 05 which was totaled in an accident, I was so impressed with the way the BMW safety that I bought the 06 530 to replace it. This car is awesome, the BMW free maintenance that comes with the car is also amazing since any issue within the first 50000 miles are covered at no out of pocket cost, including the cost of the loaner car. I have had a lot of issues with break squeaking and brake dust, BMW needs to address this.
CPO Vehicle
I bought a 2006 CPO and I have never been so impressed with an automobile, even if used. The quality of build, interior and exterior finish, ride, and great gas mileage (30 mpg highway) blows me away. The iDrive system is easy to use and relieves you of numerous buttons and knobs that would be needed to run the systems it controls. I have had other luxury or semi-luxury cars i.e. Lincoln, Mercedes, and a Toyota Avalon and none, I repeat none, deserve to be parked in the garage with the 530i. So many small touches add to this car such as small orange LEDs beaming streams of dim light on door handles, gear shift, side pockets, at night. I certainly will be a BMW man for years to come.
First BMW - won't be my last
I test drove several vehicles, but after driving the 530i, I said to myself "I have got to get me one of these!" While I enjoyed driving the 3 series, the 530i has the interior room to make it a great family sedan, but when I'm alone it is one sweet ride. The 255 HP engine sets the tone, but the car is so quiet and smooth to ride in. I love the idrive. My dealer did a great job walking me through it and now its second nature. I love all of the other gadgets and settings too. I like having an MP3 CD loaded and getting a display of all songs on the idrive display, so I can play them randomly, or dial up some music with the idrive or use the steering wheel mounted controls.
4th BMW and I love it!
This is my 5th BMW and my first 5 series! BMW has once again blown me over! I absolutely love the way this car drives & the stickshift is like butter. I live in CT/NYC area where the traffic is bad constantly and my BMW's performance in traffic is one less thing to stress over.You just can't beat BMW engineering. I have seen complaints about the iDrive but its very simple. The warranties are the BEST in the industry.We have 3 BMWs in my driveway making us loyal to a manufacturer who delivers high quality
More than expected
This is, without question, the best 4 door sports car on the market. It is not too big like the 7 series or S class and it moves like the wind. It is a pleasure to drive everyday. Powerful but well mannered. The iDrive gets a bad rap, it is not complicated, nor do you have to use it often once you have things set to your liking. Surprisingly, the hwy mileage has been 26-27 mpgs, fairly close to my 325.
Best BMW I've Owned
This is my third BMW, and I currently own a 2001 540i that is a great car. This new 2006 530i is an amazing and better car, and I don't understand what the various auto magazines are thinking in their reviews! This car is an outstanding blend of quickness, agility, comfort, build quality, and amazing technical features. The iDrive is actually easy to use and very cool. The sports suspension and seats are more comfortable than past 5 series while handling better, thanks to the active roll bar technology. The 530i engine has solid power with 255 HP and great fuel efficiency - gettng about 30 MPG highway and good economy with stop and go driving.
Best 4 Door Performance Car on the Marke
This car is truly a blast to drive. Fast, nimble, all the cool toys inside- -THe Ultimate Driving Machinge without question. The engine sounds great, feels smooth and never seems to hit the end of the power band. Interestingly, I get 26-27 mpg on the highway and combined of about 20--not much less than my 325. All in all, this is the best 4 door performance car on the market. After driving it, all the complaints about the I-Drive, styling or other small stuff sounds more like sour grapes from those that do not get to drive one to work each day.
In a class by itself
Bought this car for my wife after we sold our X5. Boy was this a revelation. Driving off from the dealer lot, I could tell this was no ordinary car. The smoothest acceleration I've ever experienced. The bluetooth rocks. The Navigation is intuitive and the Gas mileage is off the charts (25mpg). This car combines comfort, performance and style excellently well. After 1 year, we've had no issues with the car, and are falling in love with it more every day.