Used 2006 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews

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

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 BMW’s 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

18 years later still turning heads

I purchased this car in 2020 with 100k miles on it. It was originally purchased by a close friend , I gave him a ride to pick it up when he purchased it brand new for $44,800 in April 2006. This car was his baby and he was a great father to his baby....until he began dating a lady who he soon discovered was secretly a entertainer at a not classy gentleman's club and had several addictions and a drinking problem. she side swiped someone and he had a body shop repair it and they done a so-so job on it. A few months later she managed to run it into a ditch and bust the oil pan and kept driving til the engine blew. He put a new engine it and this guy didn't know what he was doing. the speedometer didn't work, all lights on dash lit, messages saying dynamic drive malfunction , and much more. I purchased on 2020, took to Lexington Autowerks and 4500$ later it was once again like new. people still think it's a newer car , tell me young lady you have a beautiful csr, not knowing it's 18 years old so while expensive to work on I say it's worth it in the long run.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

A dream car

Had a 1997 535i I loved and couldn't part with. Finally and reluctantly I bought my 550i - shouldn't have waited - it's a simply fantastic car. I look forward to the morning drive more than ever and my SL500 stays parked in the garage. Great performance, handling and comfort as well as all the hitec gismos to keep me happy - and they are useful too particulary headup and satnav. Great. IDrive is simply learnt in a few hours that motoring journos obviously don't give it. Simple - intuitive - and very easy to use regularly when needed.

Truly Fantastic

This car does so many things right, it's staggering how good it is. It is fast, comfortable, good looking, innovative, and handles better than 99% of all cars. The engine, transmission and suspension are so smooth, you quickly realize that you pay for refinement. Anyone can make a fast car, but no one can make a car that "feels" like this one. The features that this car has are unparalled. It does everything you ask. IDrive is awesome, and the people who bag on it are people who do not understand the logic behind computers. If you're good with a PC, you'll love iDrive. Great, great car.

Now I'm A Believer!

This is my first BMW and I'm extremely impressed. My next door neighbor sells BMW's and gave me a great deal on my new 06 530i. I've come close to purchasing a BMW on 2 other occasions in the past 5 years but didn't do it. I'd have to say that this is by far the best car I've ever owned in my 55 years of living. I don't agree with the criticism this car has received regarding the iDrive and it's exterior design. Driving this car is pure joy and like nothing I've ever driven before. Power, handling and comfort are fantastic. If you're not sure about this car, a test drive or two will make you a believer.

Ultimate Driving/Trouble machine

I purchased 06 BMW 530i in 08/2005. When the car works, it is really fun to drive. It does fit you like a glove. The acceleration and brake are two of my favorites. Exterior looks so cool. My complain is that it nees too many trips to the dealership. So far, I got power window motor replaced, high battery drain that require re- programming, trip computer mal- function. The engine stalled couple of times on me at low speed. The dealer can never figure out what is wrong. The execuses I got include low on gas (the computer shows 100 miles range left), bad gas (Shell is bad according to dealer, I am only using Chevron now)

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.

A dream of a car

I initially looked at the new 3 series, but the 5 series is in a different class with much more space and elegance. The car feels so refined and performance is exceptional. It remains refined and composed no matter how you drive it. It corners like it is on rails and accelerates strongly. Brakes are powerful and progressive with great feed back. Steering is agile and sensitive with good feed back. Build quality throughout the car is excellent, interior materials have an exceptional look and feel. Interior controls are confined to those used most, others are accessed via the iDrive, which I found extremely easy to use.

Best ever

This is the third Beamer I have owned and by far it is the best in all areas. The fuel economy is very acceptable for this size car, I just wished it did not need premium gas. The handling is very BMW and the acceleration for the 530 is excellent. I am having some difficulty adjusting the driver seat to a comfortable position. The front of the seat seems to be titlted too far back and presses on the underneath of my knee.I like the size of the trunk but wished the rear seat folded without having to buy it as an option. One thing about BMW is that there is nothing free if they can charge for it. The rear seat could use a little more leg room. I have no trouble with the I drive.

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.

2006 bmw 530i has been a lemon

My wife's purchased this car used and replaced the transmission, now the control arms need replaced it only has 150,000 miles on it. I drive Acuras and last two put over 300,000 miles on each one and never had the many major and petty issues like thos car.

Disappointing for this much money

After thoroughly enjoying my 3 series, I looked forward to the 530. What a disappointment, I have never had any car in for service so often, the high battery drain others have mentioned, iDrive replaced, tires have been replaced twice at no charge due to noise and excessive cupping, brake sensor malfunction resulted in having brakes replaced at 10K miles. While BMW has replaced all these items, having to take car in over 10 times in a year is just ridiculous. Not what you expect for this much money. Also just can't get this seat and steering wheel adjusted to point it's comfortable for more than a little while. All in all, a great looking car, and I enjoy it - when it runs correctly.

3rd Bimmer

This is my 3rd BMW, two 3s and now the 530i. Had to have tires replaced at 2000 miles, car was shaking, sun roof malfunctioned, other than that ,car is great, nice handling, braking, great looking very quiet. The iDrive is not as bad as most people say.

BIMMER

First Bimmer ever owned and never going back... most likely an M5 in a year or two as I crave more raw power!!

Wish I had More.

Overall a great car. Smooth ride, quiet and comfortable. The engine in the 525 seems underpowered for the vehicle size which causes the transmission to shift strangely in gears 1 and 2. Very little road noise, great handling and gas mileage. Contrary to many comments the iDrive is not that difficult to learn.

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.

Stepped up their game

Driving this car compared to the previously owned 2002 same model there is a big difference. The car now has a big car feel, big car ride,and big car power. That along with it's maintenace and warranty program make it fun to own and drive. I have owned a 318i, 525i, and three 530i's this is the best one yet.

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.

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.

Sorry to have purchased this car

Car is very nice except for a problematic idling issue. Been to the dealer over 6 times (lost count thereafter), talked with BMW of North America several times. No satisfaction even though the car is under warranty. If you are looking to own a BMW hope that you get a good one and not a lemon as I have. I have owned several BMWs over a 15 year period and feel completely let down by the situation. Two more observations: sound system is average, very average. Wind noise from the sunroof is annoying.

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.

BMW 550i

Muscle car for adults

This is the best balance of a pure performace car and respectable sedan available. It is a blast to drive, the 365HP engine is quiet and refined during normal driving, but hit the gas and it will nail you to the seat. The active suspension keeps it flat and traction control keeps the rear end in line. This car will make you take the long way home and send you looking for twisty roads. If you have to stick to the highway it will give you a smooth quiet ride and 26MPG.

Still love it after 3 years of driving...

Drove Nissan products for 20 years... CVT transmission is a joke!!! Decided to test drive my 5 and fell in love... yes, service / parts are not cheap, but buy a Kia if you cannot live with it... love it and would buy it again!!!

new car

Great

BMW's Colossal Blunder

Great car, fun to drive... but impractical! The sports package comes with run flat tires and a donut. No room to put in full sized tire in the well. But I am better off than those with a 2006 or later 3 series who have no spare at all.. Get a flat wiith these babies and you can go 150 miles. You can put on the donut and go about the same distance. Get a flat tire over the weekend like I did and you are out of pocket for 2 days. Nobody, I repeat nobody stocks the odd ball tires. This is a MAJOR flaw in the BMW. Hear that Edmunds? BTW, the run flats are not repairable, so you are looking at over $300 a pop for a flat. Also they ride terribly and have 15,000 mile tread life.

Outstanding

This is the first time that BMW has made the 5 series in to an all wheel drive. The drive, smoothness, performance, electronic features are beyond expectations.

still lovin it

i've owed this car for five years and im still loving it! It's a great car!

Worth every penny!

I'm a BMW fan, just sold my 2002 325i sport/premium. 530i is an excellent value/jump up. With updated engine (255hp), this is a fun ride. Either love or hate the exterior, interior is well designed. IDrive was no issue for me, if you can navigate an internet web site, you can use IDrive...I highly recommend the Nav system, especially for safety (not having to look around while driving, it tells you when and where to turn). Trunk space is a big step up from 3-series...premium package a must (nice leather). Decided against sport package, since I live in N. PA...snow and ice is not recommended for sport package. Loads of technology in 06 model...enjoy the toys. Love the way it handles.