Used 2006 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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Must own one of these cars, if you buy it used
Eric, 08/11/2016
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
40 of 40 people found this review helpful
So basically this car is my favorite material possession. AND I am not a car nut. I really like this car. We bought ours used in Colorado for $16K. It had 92,000 miles on it. I had it inspected by a BMW dealership for about $300. They tore through it and found some issues. The electronic cable sleeve between the computer and the transmission. It typically leaks every 100K. It was leaking. The shocks were bad. And the coolant system had a leak. I bought the car after some further negotiations. It was in the shop quickly for a radiator replacement, a lower radiator supply hose, a worn out wheel bearing, shocks, and new tires. That was about $3000. We had about $19k into this car with 105,000 miles on it. Regret started to sink into our minds. But since then the car has just had maintenance visits. I replaced the coil over ignition plugs at 180,000(they lasted 80k more than BMW says they should). I changed the oil every 7k, it does eat 1 qt of oil every 7000 miles. I just deal with that. I put continental contipro contact tires on it. This car powers through corners now. It drives through 12" of snow and heavy rains with NO problems. Folks this car is reliable if you take care of it. The car must go to a great mechanic who knows BMW's. Don't skimp on non-OEM parts. Go to Bavarian autosport for parts if you want to DYI the repairs. The car may the basic 6 buts fast. So fast. Faster than our 2009 BMW X5 with the turbo diesel. I am at 196,000 miles now and I have no intention of selling it. In fact I might just buy another 06-08 BMW 530xi. New technology be damned.
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a little pain for lots of fun gain
bummer530, 04/08/2012
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful
In the market for a car in 2009 and for the price of a boring Accord V6 ($39k in Canada) I got a 530xiT CPO with 60,000 km on it. Had to deal with electronic glitches here and there (tire sensors, oil level sensors, etc) and the transmission is somehow brutal when accelerating from a red light. Also experience problems at idle, irregular rpms..but all covered by CPO warranty. Driving is a blast: I put 40,000 km on it annually and wouldn't want to drive any other car @$700/month. If I could afford a '12 MB E350 4matic station, I could consider a trade but even if I need to rebuild the tranny, it will still be cheaper and more fun to drive my 530xit into the ground. 170k km heading for 400k
2006 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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My 4th BMW and the best one!
Olivier Gosse, 03/27/2016
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
43 of 46 people found this review helpful
This 530i is well designed and the overall reliability is good. Beyond 150K miles, I started having some oil leaks but it's all fixable. Over 150K miles. the original radiator was replaced, a rear window actuator replaced around 60 Kmiles and the regular brakes were replaced front and back every 30 to 40K miles. Spark plugs replaced every 100K miles. DTML pump was replaced around 90K miles. The coolant tank was replaced around 120K miles but this car is solid and performs well month after month. The starter was replaced at 148K miles as well as a front wheel(crack in the metal). The microfilter needs a change every 30K miles and the trunk actuator had to be replaced at 165,000 Miles. It has 179K miles and it's still going strong! I religiously get an oil service every 7,500 miles + visual inspection. The external body still looks great but the car spends its nights in a covered garage. Total maintenance costs(incl. $3,800 100K warranty) = $18.425(incl. 4 sets of tires) up to date.
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Great looking car with performance that matches
Lawrence Katzenstein, 08/19/2015
updated 08/22/2016
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
24 of 25 people found this review helpful
I bought this car three years ago and I've generally been quite satisfied. It gets decent mileage overall and over 30mpg on the road. New passengers not aware of the brand will often ask what kind of car it is because it's so comfortable. Since the car has had very little wear its frequently confused with a newer car since the basic body design remained the same until 2010. It does have some flaws. One of these is that the I-Drive computer occasionally doesn't boot at start up and leaves me without a radio until it does. The parking radar often takes a while to shut off after leaving a parking space. However in the basics like comfort and performance the car is great. I did purchase an extended drive train warranty, but I've recently had a large number of systems fail in short order including the water pump, purge valve, and transmission pan and filter. There's also the standard German oil leak which is so minuscule that I've chosen not to fix it. My mechanic and I both think that this bad period will pass and that the car will remain reliable so I'm currently still positive about it. It's a great machine. Addendum: On the positive side I've just been in an accident where I was broadsided by a driver who didn't try to stop. He must have been doing at least 65 in a 45 speed limit zone. The car lost a fender and deployed the side but not front airbags. I lost one fender and little else. I walked away without a scratch. Very impressive! The only negative about this car and other BMWs is that some systems are unique so it's hard to find a mechanic who will work on one other than the dealer. Nevertheless, performance and now safety are excellent.
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Great car and great value (if purchased used)
klrsmile, 01/16/2012
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
24 of 25 people found this review helpful
I purchased an '06 with 48k on it - a CPO car with some protection (and maintenance) remaining on the warranty. Sticker was $64k in 2006, and I was fortunate to purchase the car for under $22k from a BMW dealer in Houston. What can I say? The car has amazing performance and handling, with stock 18" rims and Yokahama run flats (odd, since there is a spare). Suspension is a bit stiff for an everyday driver, so says my wife, however, it allows the corners to be straightened out a bit when you get the nerve. Rear leg room is A+ and trunk space is huge. I-drive not too bad once used to it, but could have been made friendlier.
Great Wagon
mycayenneturbo, 01/31/2011
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
We recently purchased a pre-owned 530xi Sports Wagon with 70k miles on it, oh what can we say, we love it! We just took it for a long trip(800 miles round trip) to visit our family and the road trip was a joy. It is very fun to drive & seats are on the firm side and supportive and it didn't give me lower back pain for driving for such long hours! The interior is very quiet(not as quiet as Lexus cars) and it rides very smoothly. We folded the back seats down and it created a great bed for our dogs and spacious cargo area for our luggage. My husband hated the idea of owning a station wagon but he likes this one, it is beautiful, probably one of the best looking station wagons available today.
Doesn't leave much to desire
Vitix2, 03/18/2010
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I've owned the BMW 530XiT for 4 yrs. and I can't think of another car that I would have preferred to own/drive regularly. By now you know that it is a great car. It exemplifies quality, athleticism, utility, and looks (IMHO). No need to rehash those traits. So, I'll move onto what I think could be improved. Power: It does great at highway speed or once you get the RPMs up. But, that performance is unmatched at the low end. Idrive: My system gets stuck at times and I have to re-select functions. No big deal, but I expect better. Panoramic Sliding Roof: Great feature, but wind noise over 30mph is out of control. Worse, BMW does not make a wind deflector that fits the model.
550i
BRokicki, 10/30/2009
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I purchased a CPO 06 550i 6 months ago with 46K miles. This car is amazing, it already has over 53K on it and there isn't one rattle, this car really has held up over the years. I drove a new 535i and could hardly tell the difference, so I decided to save $30K and buy it used. This car is such a joy to drive, it begs to be tossed around. Every seat is comfortable, and there is tons of cargo room. The only thing that bothers me is that I only average 9 mpg in the city driving normally, but much better than expected on the highway, about 25. You really need to watch the pot holes, I had to replace 2 tires at $500 a piece, don't get the sport package if you live in an area with bad roads!
The BEST wagon EVER
Norman, 03/21/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is the 3rd wagon I have owned and the 2nd BMW wagon, this is by far the BEST wagon EVER, the all wheel drive and the navagation were not available on the 1999 wagon, and it truly makes this the BEST wagon ever, I also love the fact I have Blue tooth and my phones address book in my BMW, it also links to my iPod so I am a happy camper.
A dream come true
Craiggb, 06/21/2010
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I had rented a 2005 5 series wagon while in Europe and put nearly 3,000 km - wanted one ever since! This car has a gas engine, AWD and a few more options but the same body and feel. It's clear to me that BMW builds a better vehicle than most. I have owned 37 cars in my life so far and this is indeed at the top (second only to my Boxster) when it comes to fit, finish and feel. The handling is superb, the seating position very comfortable, and power is adequate. The 255 hp is enough but, as is the case with every car, it slowly becomes insufficient as one gets to know the car well. The auto trans is very nice and the Sport mode is great. Good on gas if you don't get too aggressive ;-).
Prepare to cough up tons of coin.
Vernon Sp, 08/12/2016
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
All in all it's a great car. The performance and ride when in tip top shape is unbeatable for the amount of miles it acquires. The problem is maintaining that tiptop status is unrelenting after 150k. Literally 5k a year in maintenance repairs at least. I'm to the point to where I'm used to riding with at least 1 or 2 alerts constantly telling me to fix something.
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Updated: 2006 525i (E60) 6 Speed Standard Trans
Rob Bellomy, 08/23/2018
updated 03/04/2020
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
This has been probably the best vehicle purchase I have ever made. Over the last 12 months the ownership costs of the BMW have been pretty reasonable. It still costs more to change the oil on my wife’s SUV, and while I have some work that needs to be done I have located some reliable mechanics who are single-handedly smashing the preconceived notion that BMWs are [insert concern here]. Granted this is one of the most basic BMWs available - 3.0L with manual transmission. It’s a blast to drive and on long distance drives it’s a champ. Fuel economy on the highway (Dallas to Little Rock) of about 38 mpg, 70 mph, 6th gear. On the way home it was closer to 35 mpg, driving into a wind and another time in the middle of a huge winter rain storm. Overall mileage between city and highway runs 20-23 depending on time spent on the highway. Still a great value. Nearly 2 years and 23,000 miles later this car is still a good value. It’s had some work - recently the control arm bushings and changing of the transmission fluid - but it’s running strong and seems fairly reliable. It’ll need work on the pesky seat mat sensor for the passenger airbags plus a couple wheel speed sensors, but that’s all fairly minor. The 04-10 5-series is still one of the best looking cars of its generation. The BMWs stayed low to the ground while many other car makers were trying to make their sedans taller to accommodate “stadium seating” for the rear seat. The more l learn about BMW, the more I’m interested in locating another older 5-series (or even the shark-nosed 6 from the 80s) to work on and drive. I used to think the company’s motto, “The Ultimate Driving Machine” was a little over the top however, now I completely agree. The car is well balanced and drives beautifully, even in heavy downpours - the car is sure-footed and confidence-inspiring. I don’t think I can ever go back to a front-wheel drive vehicle that isn’t at least German-engineered.
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I feel like Ari Gold in this car
Adam R, 08/05/2016
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
21 of 24 people found this review helpful
I'm a husband, father, and project manager who traverses all over the metro area from site-to-site, often handling business over the phone in my car. Shortly before our first baby was born, I searched for a car with the following critera: rear-wheel drive, V8 engine, and room for a car seat. At under $20k, that limited my options to a Dodge Charger, Pontiac G8, Mercedes E500. I didn't even test drive the other three. The 550i hit the lot and I took it for one drive and it checked every box I needed (except no fold-down rear seat--damn you original owner ;). PERFORMANCE: 5 Stars. This care is ridiculously fast. My daily commute averages between 80 and 100 mph, and it completely capable at these speeds. It has the best brakes I've ever felt in a car. You stomp on the pedals and they bring all 4,000 pounds to a quick stop. The active anti-roll bars and active steering are a must for enthusiast driving--do not buy this car without these. However, there is a bit of "play" in the throttle pedal, about a quarter press before I get a response. This is somewhat annoying when rounding a slow corner and trying to throttle out of it--I have to depress the pedal while still turning the corner. COMFORT: 4 Stars. The seats could be better. I slide around a bit too much on fast corners, and can't quite get the lumbar in the right position on my back. Also, the steering wheel tilt needs a little more motion--I draw it all the way out and all the way down and still need more. With the windows up, the cabin is very quiet. However with the windows down, for some reason I get an unusual amount of wind blowing from outside into the cabin and at my face--way more than any other car. Because of this I just can't cruise at high speed with the windows down. INTERIOR: 5 stars. The trunk fits my golf clubs AND a stroller. The instrumentation, logic & controls are all very intuitive and in the right place. I think the cupholders are a marvelous innovation--high up and out of the way of your shifting, and can be tucked away when not in use. However, the sunroof glass rattles when closed. TECHNOLOGY: 5 stars. If you can't figure out iDrive after a week of use, you have problems. After learning it and getting used to control everything with my hand down at my side, I can't stand driving cars that require me to lift my hand up to the dash to press a button--that's how good this is. I already spoke to the driving technology but they deserve another mention: active sway bars & active steering are simply amazing marvels. This car is ten years old and STILL ahead of its time. Bluetooth is very basic. Forget the voice commands. I use Siri to make my calls. But once the call is made, the connection is crystal clear even at 100mph. Like my title says: I handle business all over town feeling like Ari Gold in this car ;) RELIABILITY: 4 stars. No major drivetrain components failed. However my central Nav computer broke, shutting down all audio, iDrive, navigation, etc. This was a $1,200 fix. Also my trunk release button (on the trunk) stopped working, but I can still open it with the button in the cabin or the key fob. Little things. It DOES burn about a quart of oil every month, but the iDrive is very good at letting me know when to top it off. I do all oil & filter changes by hand in under an hour. VALUE: 4 Stars. Its amazing how cheap you can buy these cars for, and they have more features and better performance than brand new $30,000 sedans. MPG is very low: 13 city, 17 highway. I don't care though because every mile puts a smile on my face!
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Love my 550
Jodi Wallace, 10/11/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have had this car close to a year. The only negatives: driver side window down is NOT aerodynamic, and wind is all over one's face. My phone is not picked up on the bluetooth (my phone is a brand new LG), and lastly, gas mileage is abysmal. However this car is fast as can be. 140 feels like 100. So get a good ticket attorney. I have had a lot of issues with the very very low front end on the sports package. The front bumper easily comes off bc it is so low and it catches on everything. Therefore, I park as if I drive a large SUV. This car is comfortable and very very fun to drive!
Favorite car I have ever owned.
Shane Mullins, 01/11/2019
updated 01/14/2020
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 72,000 miles. We now have over 156,000 miles. Gas mileage is great with the six speed manual, 35+ MPG on the highway. Just a fantastic car to drive. The only issue we have had is a valve cover gasket at 155,000 miles. Things like this happen to cars with high mileage. Can't think of anything negative to say about the car. Update, we now have 168,000 miles and still going strong.
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The very nice "T" as Touring
CNJ31, 02/12/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Had worked in the Old world for many years so 5 doors with AWD are my only interest once return to the New world. There were few models met the criteria in the local market. We finally chose the 530xiT because it is a good example of demonstrating what a car should be like when a car has the right combination of performance, handling, quality, safety and utility. Although the 530xiT does not perform #1 in each category, it is so well balanced!! This is very important for people who are shopping in this market segment. Time to call it correctly: Touring, not Wagon.
Fun to Drive
Ironbird0, 12/29/2009
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2006 530XI AWD Wagon used in August 2009. I love it, although I have had one issue regarding one of the ignition coils which broke on Christmas Eve morning. Luckily, my Greenwich CT dealer has been top-notch so far and took it in immediately and had me back on the road and home in time for the holiday. I just would like to see the Manufacturer use better coils in this car as I've heard this is a common issue for this car. Otherwise, this car is AWESOME! Acceleration is great once you are up to speed-but I find a little sluggish from 0-60 mph.
the ultimate family wagon
gillie, 11/30/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Quality of build is noted just openning the doors. Interior appointments are perfecto. Compares favorably to my M5 in terms of finish and the good feeling sitting in driver's seat engendors. The iDrive is simple, perhaps too simple for the auto critics. 28 mpg on the road is just fine. I wish it were a couple of thousand cheaper but this car is a keeper so the price is not so upsetting.
Ah, back in a wagon again
john f, 09/29/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I went from a Mercedes wagon to a Volvo XC90 to the BMW. Had never driven a BMW before so wasn't sure what to expect. My wife and I looked in the dealer lot after a return from a second honeymoon and she said "This is nice". Had ordered the new ML500 and she "hated" it. Test drove the car, was really impressed, bought it a week later. Very high tech, great ride and love the heated rear seats. I am a car junkie so I researched many vehicles. Promised my wife I would keep this one. Everything on this car exudes quality. Just can't say enough good things about it. Great looker, awesome headlights, solid build.
Long time BMW owner
longtimebmwowner, 09/02/2008
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for 2 years and a 740IL previously. This car handles very well, rides very comfortably and can handle my 6'3" frame easily. The 28+MPG highway is a great deal with $4+ gas. I find the I-drive OK, but would prefer manual controls for heat/AC and radio. I-drive is good for navigation and communications. I find the brake dust excessive and pits the rims if not removed quickly (my rims are waxed for protection).
Fantastic Vehicle
Don of Spring, 03/07/2010
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
This 2006 530i is my first BMW, which I purchases Used with 5K miles. The combination of performance, comfort and excellent fuel mileage (32-38 highway and over all after 32,000 miles city and highway is 28+) is great. Interior comfort could be better in the way of softer seats. Highway touring is smooth, quiet and comfortable. Overall, this is the nicest all around vehicle I've ever owned.
Older BMWs are not the best economic proposition
Doobster, 12/01/2017
updated 06/09/2022
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
15 of 18 people found this review helpful
So in my original review I went on and on about how buying this pristine, well maintained example of the best 5-series ever was the best car buying decision I ever made. The car IS fantastic and runs terrific, but it’s costing me a small fortune to keep it running that way. Read the last update below. UPDATE; 18 MONTHS LATER... I LOVE IT EVEN MORE. This remains the best car I’ve ever owned. I used to say that my 2004 (first gen) Cadillac CTS-V (aka; ‘four door Corvette’) was the most satisfying car I had ever owned but now this car has that crown too. Awesome!! UPDATE; 24 MONTHS LATER... I’ve put the car up for sale. I’ve owned it now for two years and it’s cost me $3,000 already in repairs and maintenance and it wants another $2,000 in preventive maintenance that doesn’t seem to prevent anything. I found an article online on the ‘YourMechanic’ website that absolutely nailed the typical BMW annual maintenance costs at $1,800 per year and escalating as they age. When I bought this ‘needle in a stack of needles’ two years ago I thought I had beaten the system; buying a like new $61k BMW for peanuts. I guess it depends on your expectations; I searched for a 530Xi specifically because it has none of the turbo and piezo injector and HPFP issues that plagued my 335 xi. I thought it would suck less money out of me. It turns out that there’s no such thing as a BMW that won’t suck you dry. $5,000 in three years for M&R is half what I paid for the car two years ago and sadly, only $1,500 less than what it’s currently worth. BMWs that are out of warranty should only be owned by very wealthy people, or DIY mechanics, neither of which I am. That same article also identified all three Toyota brands as the most trouble-free, reliable and least expensive brands to own. So I bought a Lexus ‘needle’ instead. As much as I enjoy driving a well-sorted older BMW, I will never own another one again. As far as used vehicles are concerned, they are way more expensive trouble than they are worth. The 2013 Lexus ES300 hybrid handles as well, rides better, gets 40 mpg, and will need next to nothing to maintain. Sayonara BMW, hello Lexus! 36 MONTHS LATER Wanting to get back into an AWD vehicle I sold the Lexus ES300h hybrid ‘needle’ I found and replaced it with a 2017 Infiniti QX50 compact SUV. BIG SURPRISE!!! This little rig handles and carves corners as well as my 2008 BMW 335xi but rides as well as this 2005 BMW 530xi!! It’s the best possible blend of both. Plus it has an 18 cu ft ‘trunk’ that expands to 50 cu ft with the seats down, way more advanced tech (I found a ‘fully loaded’ model) and it GOES LIKE A ROCKET having 325 HP! Like all SUVs it is easier to get in and out of and has a better seating position. The model was redesigned in 2016 to add more length and inches for back-seat passengers so four people over 6 ft can ride comfortably. Mediocre mpg (18/27) is its only demerit. Of ALL the cars I’ve ever driven, this little jewel combines the absolute best amalgamation of all of their best features and capabilities. And since it also has their advanced tech package (LDW, LDA, BLIS, FCA, FCA, Adaptive Cruise, NAV, BOSE audio) I am wanting for nothing that the newer cars offer. This car will likely be the ‘keeper’ that fits my newly retired status perfectly!! The most important take-away for readers of this review is that it’s possible to buy a far more reliable, and less costly-to-maintain, vehicle that can compare VERY WELL to the BMWs’ vaunted chassis dynamics and performance but without the ownership headaches. It may not have the blue-and-white roundel on the hood, but then again, the Infiniti brand is no slouch either. Lastly, for anyone so intrigued by this particular alternative, know that Infiniti completely changed this model in 2019. The car I now own ended production in the 2017 model year as a RWD chassis platform; the 2019 is now a FWD chassis architecture. For those drivers who can appreciate the superiority of the RWD chassis dynamics you will definitely want the previous model, not the newer one. Furthermore, you’ll want a 2016 or 2017 to get the extra seating room the stretched wheelbase provides. Don’t get me wrong, the 2019s and newer QX50s are excellent vehicles; my wife has one!! They’re even bigger, roomier and have more cargo capacity, and also feature Infiniti’s new VARIABLE COMPRESSION engine which truly is an engineering marvel. We saw 31 highway mpg on a recent trip!! But it’s not the driver’s car the older model is. If driving enjoyment is your preference, hunt down the previous generation car. I think you’ll be amazed at how good these cars are!!! UPDATE JUNE 9, 2022 I’m sticking by my review and decision to never again own a used, out-of-warranty BMW. Our two current cars (2017 and 2019 Infiniti QX50s) prove that you can drive remarkable, satisfying vehicles that won’t bankrupt you maintaining and repairing them like used BMWs will. This is especially true for the newer (post 2011) BMW models which have been ‘dumbed-down’ to levels of dynamic performance now matched by Buicks. Almost every manufacturer has caught up to BMW who should stop using their ‘ultimate driving machine’ slogan. There’s no longer a reason to put up with a used BMW’s cost-of-ownership!
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Uber Wagon
Steve, 11/24/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Having owned the previous 540ti Wagon model (w/V8), this is a clear positive evolution. Drives like a road-gobbling sedan. Surprising torque leaves me missing the V8 only slightly. The car reminds me of its safe, but thrilling ride. Love it!
Happy with 530xi wagon
Ross, 12/26/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great driving car, and very handsome. Gives a lot of confidence when driving in bad weather.
Nice Luxury Car (:
carguru12, 02/20/2013
2006 BMW 5 Series 525xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
We purchased our 525xi secondhand at a BMW dealership and it was certified used. The interior comfort is great, and road noise is minimal. The only thing I don't like about our 5 Series is the iDrive system. It can't be avoided (option up a standard radio like in the 3 Series), and it has radio presets, but there are no preset buttons (you have to use iDrive to get to them). The car also has an annoying "grab" in the transmission, a software issue. The performance is great. I love this car.
Just got it, love it.
evan, 07/04/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is a great car so far. I did a lot of research and although the price is high, this cars design and technology sold me. I think people who always buy sedans are missing out. This is as good as the sedan plus you get a lot more utility for a bit more weight.
The Best of all the rest!
Reginald, 06/23/2019
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The most dependable BMW Engine ever made. This is a solid smooth ride! My 5th BMW and this is the Best of all the rest!!
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Love the wagon
JimP, 08/01/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
just traded in my 2001 X5 for the new wagon - awesome car (just have to get used to sitting so low) - I agree that having that wagon is a big advantage over the sedan (given that I have two dogs). Was initially concerned about trading down to a V6 from a V8 but so far seems to have more than enough power
530xi
Joe, 09/28/2006
updated 05/20/2024
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
19 of 24 people found this review helpful
The BMW 530xi: Motor - Smooth throughout entire RPM range although it lack the ummphh you would expect. Handling - You'll back down before the car will - outstanding Interior - Quality throughout-seats can wear on you on a lengthy trip. IDrive a snap for the computer literate generation, definitely not for you Mom. Lack of storage, center console useless. Cup holders work better than you would expect. Exterior - Germans can't match the Japanese for fit and finish, gaps large enough to fit your pinky in. Car is drop dead gorgeous but paint is very soft and scratches easily. Run flats are a no no - no tire life and flats abound, stick with stock. UPDATE: 18 years old, 277,000 miles and still my favorite car to drive - doubt I will ever give her up, I would miss the third pedal too much.
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
'06 550i sport
bluebimmer, 01/30/2009
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Love my Bimmer! The sport package is a must! Drives and handles very well. I heard things about the iDrive but realized that it is not complicated at all, I can even input on navi while driving, cup holders do not bother me either. Heads-up display is awesome, it even shows directions from navi. Very comfortable. Overall the car makes a statement!
A whole different level
Jim W., 10/17/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
This car is a real pleasure to drive. Dead quiet without a bit of mush. The 525i won't throw your head back into the powered headrest but it does get you onto the interstate just fine. Once there you can cruise at 70mph/2400rpm and watch your mpg gauge hover above the 30mpg mark. I often find myself seeking out corners to carve. If I was forced to complain... it takes a little bit more time to zip between radio bands and stations or ejecting and inserting CDs. IDrive would be rough on the techno challenged among us. I'm not used to a car without a dipstick either. Don't let any of this stop you from experiencing the craftsmanship and engineering excellence of this car. Even if it's a test drive
I wish I could buy another!
amy harrington, 05/15/2018
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I absolutely loved my 530 xi wagon and put over 175,000 miles on it before things started to go bad. It still rode like a car only a year old and looked new after 12 years. Great visibility and flexibility while keeping the handling of a performance car (without the higher center of gravity of an SUV and low enough for my dog to jump in). I held off getting a new car, hoping against hope, to get a new one - the difference between the 5 wagon and the 3 wagon was night and day. And now they aren't going to make either. I initially thought the turning headlights wasn't so important but now that I've had them, they are a "must" for future cars for me. Most cars have heated seats, some heated steering wheels but I found the quality of the heat was different/better on this 5 - instead of feeling like electric coils, it enveloped me in a gel-like warmth. unbelievable difference. And my mpg was only 1 mpg under my son's subaru!
- Performance
Wagon is the way to go
Ferko, 10/31/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I just came back from Europe where a large percentage of cars is wagon. I was looking for something different than a sedan, and definitely not an SUV. (I own one). I was leaning toward an A4 Avant with the sweet 2.0 l turbo engine. When I saw the 530xi I bought it the same day afternoon. The balance of the car is so unique that I don't know of anything else in this price range. It has been a pure delight.
we love it!
j and j, 10/17/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The BMW has no comparison on the road when it comes to a driving machine! We have a dog, haul paintings, and soon to have a child ... this car does it all. I agree that it's something everyone should drive.
BMW Loaded
Donna, 10/09/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 525xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I traded in a 330CI convertible sports model for this vehicle to have the all- wheel drive. At first I was very skeptical. This car has proven itself over and over again. Love it!! Love to drive it, very fun. I purchased mine with navigation, and all the bells and whistles. So many I am still learning how to work them. I am adding the rear spoiler this week. Overall, I was shocked at how well I love this car and would recommend to everyone.
buy one if you can
icwl, 01/22/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Probably my 15th car over 25 years of driving. Definitely the best so far. Fun to drive, aggressive styling, few on the road, lots of looks. Gas mileage is acceptable (24 to 27 mpg depending on driving style). At the limit of what I would spend on a car but great size for 4 adults, long trips, safe and solid. The short 6 automatic gears create fun acceleration for a large sedan. And yes, it does go 155 mph.
Couldn't be happier
wagonguy, 09/01/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Never thought that I would be driving a wagon but this is by far the best! The room is great, the net for dogs is great and the panaroof is great! The bluetooth system in this car surpasses those of pretty much any other maker. It completely syncs your phone book and automatically puts voice tags on all of them! I am very happy with my purchase. I think it is much more practical than the sedan. The iDrive is very easy to use once you learn it.
Just got my 525xi and love it
buzz, 01/01/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 525xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have finally received my 5er (prm, spt,nav, comfort access) and I have had so much fun driving it. Driving this vehicle on the German Autobahn gives you a greater appreciation for German engineering. I love this car it handles great and I dont regret not getting the 530 this has plenty power. If you have not driven a BMW go test drive one you will not want anything else. Drive it you will own it!!!
Pure pleasure
Harry R. Culp, 10/11/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I had owned 8 Merecedes wagons. This is my first BMW. The quality seems much better than Mercedes. It is a little smaller in the cargo space by about 7 cubic feet. I added the racks and carrier for the top to help this problem. Overall, I feel I am driving a quality and good looking station wagon.
Great car
Jay Vanulk, 03/12/2021
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have had many many luxury cars... I bought my 2006 nine years ago as an intron car.... I still own it, drive it daily, and only replaced a $600 starter motor..... It’s been a terrific car, and no one can tell that it’s an older model...... It’s been a great reliable car!
1st time BMW owner-bad experience
Jeniffer, 05/25/2008
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Wagon AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
My husband bought this car for my 40th birthday, this was a bad gift. I've had my car in the shop 23 times, multiple times for brakes and wheels/tires. The car has been in the shop 5 times in the last two and half months. I will never buy another BMW. I want to be able to get in my car and drive without wondering if my caliper will fall off.
Big bucks German bad transmission cheap parts
wilczewm, 11/23/2012
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
9 of 13 people found this review helpful
Bought new. Minor problems while under warrantee. Since then, replaced rear wheel bearing at 40K. Transmission slam from second to first like getting hit from behind. BMW engineers created a computer work around for this common problem but will not fix this default and you must pay dealer whether it works or not. Many people being talked into replacing transmission for $5k. Cheap dash components like cup holders and ashtray flimsy, had to replace both two times. For the price paid, quality is severely lacking. Would not recommend buying a used one. Local dealer repair shop is horrible. Had vehicle 9 days on two occasions without fixing. BMW regional tech changed battery 2hrs.
530xi review
Deke, 06/05/2008
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
This car is the best performing automobile that I've ever owned. With that being said, it is the worst car ergonomically that I've ever seen. The iDrive system is a total disaster. Just trying to change the heat/AC is actually dangerous when driving because you must use the isDrive to do it! Almost all setting on this car must be changed through the iDrive which is very finicky.
Turning 40..Great Birthday Present
Kathleen, 03/29/2005
2006 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My last car was a Honda (great) but for my 40th birthday, I wanted a special present. I could not be any happier with my decision to take the plunge into a luxury vehicle. The drive is smooth and handles the road (city and highway) better than any car I have had. BMW is much heavier than the Honda which took getting use to. However, I can't see myself owning another car. I am hooked on BMW.
A must have!
Javiso, 01/25/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 525xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first Bimmer. The 525xi is great in the snow. I am a BMW owner for life now. Already looking towards my next one in 23 more payments as this is a lease.
Best of the best
GeorgeW, 07/01/2009
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is truly the ultimate driving machine. Powerful, confident, amazing handling and comfortable. This car is just fun to drive in all conditions. The all wheel drive handles in all conditions. Car looks great, the leather seating is comfortable and the stereo sounds terrific. Acceleration is impressive also.
Worth the patience
LiftThis, 07/03/2007
2006 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Ya know how you never buy a 1.0 release of software. Consider that for a car. While the dealership was wonderful, and we would definitely buy a car from them again, it took several trips back and forth to the dealership to work out some of the bugs in the cars firmware. Once that was fixed, WOW! I love this car. It's faster, handles better than my 2001 Porche 911 cabrio, and is quite the sleeper. I have also driven a 2005 E55 Mercedes Benz AMG, and I will take my 550 any day. The handling and braking are superb. Most folks won't be disappointed in the acceleration either. After a few M3s and Porsches, as a car lover, I can tell you that I love this car.
Exceptional sedan
BMDUB1, 06/24/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 530xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have recently purchased the 530xi. I am still infatuated with this car and cannot wait to drive it. The car is comfortable and fun to drive. I have driven a lot of cars but this car is unique. It looks great and has sufficient power and stability for any style of driver.
Little Awesome
RegalReggie, 06/03/2006
2006 BMW 5 Series 525xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I owned a 2003 525i and thought it was perfect. Then I got my 2006 525xi and fell in love all over again. What a car. I thought it was impossible to improve on perfection but I was wrong. This car is roomier and has a much bigger trunk. I was concerned that the all wheel drive would really suck up the gas but so far I am getting 20 to 25 miles to the gallon and I can live with that to drive this awesome car. The handling of the all wheel drive is so terrific that when I drove a 2005 525i this past week, I felt a little out of control. I know it was my imagination but that is the assurance level I have in my car.
BMW's Worst
Bill Richter, 02/13/2008
2006 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I'll start with the positive: the car is fun to drive. Now the negatives: There are several fatal design flaws that make ownership a real pain. For example, the six disk changers cartridge is at the back of the glove box and only accessible from the passenger seat (with all the glove box contents emptied). The center consoles is hard to access, provides limited space and lacks a power outlet or ipod connection. Unexplainably, there are two power outlets for the back seat passengers. idrive is useless. For a simply function, like shifting the air vent from the dash to the feet, it takes a dozen clicks. The 3 series is a classic and the 7 is luxury, but the 5 is downright useless.