Used 2008 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Great Performance Sport Sedan
Tomas Olivo, 12/16/2015
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
40 of 40 people found this review helpful
This car performs amazingly well given the facts that is a heavy midsize sedan. The look is great! Definitely a head turner with the Sport package. If you are looking for gas mileage stay away from the V8 but if you are mostly looking for performance and power, this is definitely the car for you. I have owned different cars, but this car is very special. You feel in control and you feel like you own the road when you are driving it. It is definitely a joy. I have owned the car for about 2 years now and I bought it with 73,000 miles. Currently at 104,000 miles and no major problems so far. The only major issues was resolved under warranty after a few days I bought the car at the BMW dealer it had an oil leak and a rattle in the engine but they fixed it. Also the car's transmission would malfunction sometimes but they reprogrammed the computer and the problem was gone. Other little things that I have done myself are the angel lights that went out, fog lights, brakes, etc. Something that does bother me is the transmission at low speed, it is a bit jerky especially when you drive it first time during the day. I've been thinking about upgrading to the F10 version but reading about all the mechanical issues they have, I think I'm sticking with this one for now since it has been such a great car so far.
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The Dream Wedding of Vehicles...
Blondeinabmw, 05/27/2016
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
105 of 108 people found this review helpful
Every time you take this car in for service, it costs $1,000...except for when it costs far more than $1,000. Bought my gorgeous 535i (with the sport package and premium sound) as a special order, and it arrived with 3 miles on the odometer. Since I bought it, I have been plagued with problems. Admittedly, the first 4+ years were pretty much covered under free maintenance with the warranty, but since it went off the maintenance agreement, it has more than made up for the savings. My car is 8 years old and has 107K miles. During the time I've owned it, it has required: - Three complete sets of tires plus two sets of rear tires (roughly every 20-30K miles) - A valve replaced in the engine (towed) - All six fuel injectors (limped in to the shop) - Walnut blasting of the intakes - A water pump (towed) - Computer software reinstalled (twice, took more than a week each time at the dealership for the reinstall to "stick") (towed) - Three fuel pumps (towed) - And now, the CCC is bad. This is a fancy acronym for the iDrive computer system that includes navigation, radio, bluetooth and all the car's controls. It also needs the hydraulics in the hood replaced, the xenon headlight has a malfunction (which requires the entire headlight assembly to be removed from the body of the car to change a LIGHTBULB, and if god forbid the ballast is bad, the bumper must be removed as well). For a change, it is actually driving fairly well, but this repair is gonna cost more than all the others yet! I've not added it up, but I think this car has cost me at least $1,800 a year in maintenance costs since it went off warranty in 2012, sometimes more. I will say that the cupholders in this car are the stupidest thing ever designed. It also does not hold car seats very well - infant carriers have to go in the middle back seat or the passenger seat will have to be on the dash, and convertible front-facing seats don't leave a ton of room either. It drives beautifully. Handles like a dream. Is so comfortable. Feels like a beast when you want it to. Rides gracefully. Looks pretty. Has an amazing sound system. Gets pretty good gas mileage all things considered. SUCKS THE LIFE OUT OF ME.
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2008 BMW 5 Series for sale near you
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- 528xi SedanMSRP: $4,50014 mi away
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A Great Car-Almost
gruderian, 06/17/2011
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
26 of 26 people found this review helpful
Great all around highway cruiser. Curves do not exist at practically any speed. Brakes are first class in every respect. Gas mileage averages around 12.5, all city driving; 15.5 combined; and 22.7 highway at any speed below 100 mph ( I know what you are thinking but that is how it works out ). Easy to live with and drive under any conditions. Front seats are very comfortable on long drives. Rough ride over road imperfestions. Extremely large and useful trunk. Not a single problem of any kind for the three years I had it. Some repetetive adjustments on the I drive are ridiculous. Heater will not warm your feet no matter how you adjust it. Throttle control is managed by computer.
No issues . . . maybe I'm lucky?
nitch, 08/02/2016
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
40 of 41 people found this review helpful
I seem to have gotten the opposite of lemon. Got the car as a CPO and drive it about 15k miles a year combined city and hwy driving. I have done zero maintenance other than brakes (once), tires (three t8es) and oil changes (every 10k miles). The only caveat is this car will chew through tires - you'll get about 30k out of a set no matter what you buy - and because of the AWD, you have to replace all 4 at once. It drives like a dream - especially on the back roads. After a snowstorm once the seal around the rear window got dislodged and water got in the trunk and down into the well under the spare. BMW stupidly put some electronics there and the TPM monitor control until got wet and shorted out. I dug it out of there, dried it off and let it et in a bag of rice of for a day or two. plugged it back in and it worked fine.
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Fun to drive, poor reliability & expensive to fix
mqc99, 02/09/2014
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
68 of 71 people found this review helpful
This was my 1st and last BMW. Bought the car new, in the 6 years and 34K miles I've owned the car, I had a faulty battery, bad fuel pump, dead oxygen sensor, and a failed water pump. I was stranded 3 times (car completely died) and almost stranded twice. So, multiple trips to the shops and over 2 grand of repair bills later, I have finally gave up on this "ultimate driving machine". It was a fun car to drive while it worked. But, for a $60K car, I'd expect BMW to deliver something better. The worst part is that I totally lost my confidence in it and can no longer feel comfortable taking this car on any extended trips. This will be the LAST BMW I ever spend my money on.
Overcomplicated & Unreliable
samarthvader, 12/09/2013
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
37 of 40 people found this review helpful
My 2008 535xi has 50,000 miles on it. There always seems to be something going wrong with it every few months. It has been one of the most unreliable cars I've ever owned, but when it is working it is a blast to drive. Even the simplest repairs are ridiculously expensive, and you are often forced to going to the dealer as most independent shops cannot work with the BMW computer system. I don't know what they were thinking when they designed idrive. It takes an engineering degree to change radio stations through idrive. I guess over engineering is the BMW way. This will probably be my 1st and last BMW...
Just love it!
Sufi, 08/31/2008
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
Finally took the plunge and bought 528xi with Premium Pack (comfort access, xenon, usb audio integration, etc.). I must say I absolutely love it. Also test drove the GS350 AWD, and it gave good competition to the 528xi but in the end, just the sheer driving pleasure swayed me towards the 528xi. Features for features, the GS350 had more toys, but it doesn't come close to the performance and the drive that 528xi offers. No lack of power. Just awesome!
Should not have bought first model year
DHecker, 02/03/2016
updated 08/10/2022
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
43 of 48 people found this review helpful
(Updated August 10, 2022.) It died around Christmas. Shop wasn't sure what it was ut figured it would not be cheap to fix. Would have done it anyway, I think, but it still leaked when it rained hard. Donated it to a local radio station. (Updated February 6, 2020.). Still running at about 120,000 miles. Starter just died and I have had cooling hoses break on the highway twice since my last review. But I keep getting it fixed and it runs well when not in the shop. [Updated 8/08/19.] About a year ago the car needed maybe $1500 or so of work. I was getting ready to just throw in the towel but asked my independent repair shop what they thought. The owner said that most owners of 535s throw in the towel around 150,000 miles because at that point the car needs lots of expensive work. He said the good news for me is I already had just about all of that done. So I decided to put the money into the car rather than buy a new one and continue to drive it. I think that has been the right decision. I really do like the car when it is driving well. It is smooth, powerful, quiet and remarkably at 11 or 12 years old still looking quite nice. My bottom line is to be careful buying the first model year of any complicated highly engineered car like this one. My guess is a year or two later BMW had figured out some of the common problems and those cars would have better repair records. [Original review.] The most telling example of the problems I've had with this car is the following. The BMW has warning signals for many different things, including that the outside temperature is now 37°. However, it does not have a warning signal to say that for whatever reason a seal in the transmission has blown and all of the fluid is leaking out. Leading to the need for a new transmission. I have had innumerable problems with the engine, electronics, lights, you name it. I also have had to replace one of the turbos at only 80,000 miles and of course replaced the other one at the same time. $3,200 later it is running fine. But there is still that $1,400 oil pan that will need to be fixed soon enough. Which I decided just to fix rather than continually worry it would implode on me 100 miles from a reliable repair shop. I bought the car in 2011 with only 25,000 miles on it. If I have not spent $20,000 in repairs since then, I would be surprised. Don't waste your money. On the positive side, when it is working and especially on the highway it is a lot of fun to drive. It gets mediocre mileage around town (it is quite heavy). But it gets somewhere around 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
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A Driver's Car
Driver, 08/24/2008
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I now have 1500 miles and can say this was the best 1500 miles I've every driven. This is a driver's car not a typical American or Japanese built car. Don't complain about the cup holders, BMW doesn't expect you to drive the autobahn with anything but two hands on the wheel. Focus on the quality of the ride beyond the seat and gadgets, it is amazing. If you really want the power go for the 535 or to tour the country side with a 550. I find the 528 gives me what I need in power with a little economy unexpected, I'm averaging 22.4 mpg in the greater DC area.
Sweet car
Manny, 11/02/2009
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Interesting to see all of the problems with the twins 535i. On BMW number 3, first 528i after two 3 series a '99 and a '06. Traded up from the '06 325i with 16" run flats, and could not stand the ride anymore, although it cornered like it was on rails. Chose the 528i because I did not want run flats tires on the next bimmer. Car runs great and has only needed one oil change thus far. Drove a 1200 miles round trip averaging 30 mpg at 80 mph. If not sure, stick with the aspirated inline 6s they are bullet prove. Ask any service center mechanic and they will tell you that the 5s are the most trouble free BMWs in the line up. Good solid car.
Military Retirement Dream Car
DougF, 06/13/2019
updated 06/15/2021
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Build quality of each part is masterful. I've owned this car for 11 years with 91K miles. I've had it up to 125mph on Autobahn and through all concievable road conditions. My only regret was not getting leather due to vegan daughter (sheepskin cover solved that). I'm appalled at the comments by some - they must be abusive owners. I perform all my own maintenance which others state is impossible - wrong - there's countless fanatical other BMW owners out there willing to help with just about any concern you have. Tires have lasted 4 years average, still on original water pump, headlights no problem, oil changes 1x per year simple. My 2 most challenging issues were CCC unit failed and needed replacement (warranty) and the valvetronic sensor needed replacement which I did myself. All other repairs were normal wear and tear. It drives like a dream - as great today as the day I bought it. I still get a thrill getting into it as I have for the past 11 years. UPDATE: I've added a hitch which is practically invisible; again, every part I removed and modified fit perfectly and was so intentional in its design. All underbody parts remain clean which in my experience of working with cars my whole life is unprecedented. The driving experience remains smooth, clean, free of noise. I had to replace front control arms but even that was easy. Here it is 13 years old and drives as smoothly and flawlessly as the day I pulled it off the lot. The interior materials have not shipped faded or degraded either. No rattles leaks or recurring problems. Still a solid confident ride.
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BMW 528XI 2008
Rocky Deodg, 07/26/2016
updated 08/09/2023
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
35 of 39 people found this review helpful
Just turned 330,000 miles, added new tires and wheel, valve cover, new fuel injectors, shocks, and springs. It is like driving a new car for less than 5 k. Love it, great job BMW
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My BMW 535XI Nightmare
beinspired65, 06/11/2014
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
27 of 30 people found this review helpful
I purchsed my 08 BMW XI used 60k miles on it, for the first 6 mos it was all good, while driving out of town the veh completely shut down (water pump), and since this happened there has been one repair after the other, I've always wanted a BMW, after repeated breakdowns and countless repairs, uless the veh is leased, do not waste your money you will end up spending more than anticipated. I've often heard you can drive a BMW for 100k miles with no issues....absolutely not true, and the worse part is you do not know there is a problem until the incator shows up on the dash or the vehicle shuts completely down. VERY FRUSTRATING EXPERIENCE!!!!!!
One fine auto.
jpcoregon, 02/24/2011
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2008 535i certified, including the maint. program to 100K miles 10/08. Outside of the horrendous experience with the lack of honesty and integrity of the BMW dealer, the car is superb. Too bad the certified program still makes one visit a BMW dealership. The car's comfort, ability to handle as well as it's outright performance is just plain fun. I quickly dumped the run-flats on this Sport model and bought high end Michelin UHP tires. The difference is a better ride and performance all the way around. Huge lack of space for change, eyeglasses and little things. Cupholders are poor, but one forgets as this thing gets up and runs.
Love my 528i so far..
kalicat, 05/03/2011
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
After reading all of the reviews, I opted for the 528i instead of the 535i. Bought certified pre-owned (not impressed - had a couple of issues that should have been caught by this supposed 180 point inspection) The car is a blast to drive, luxury and performance at a reasonable price- at least for the pre-owned. I look forward to every drive! I wanted a bigger car for safety and cause I have a young child - but with this car you dont have to compromise style and performace for a practical family sedan. Love the 30 mph on road trips too.
poor reliability & expensive to fix
Mike, 07/29/2015
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
20 of 22 people found this review helpful
Great car when it is work. 77 kmiles, second owner bought at 50 k. so far I replaced, water pump, turbo,shift assembly,, battery , one bearing , low pressure fuel pump. If you have the money for this buy it if not...no. The only way I will buy an other BMW will be only if has CPO warranty ...
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Fun to drive
david_welch, 01/05/2014
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
I was looking for an AWD sport sedan with a 6 speed manual transmission. The BMW 535xi is the only option in the luxury market. The car is outstanding. It handles extremely well at high speeds and tight corners. The brakes are fantastic and can stop reliably. I wanted a 6 speed manual and the transmission is superb. Shifting is smooth but can be done quickly if accelerating -- merging on the highway is no trouble at all. The AWD is great and I just took the car out for its first test in a New England blizzard. The plow trucks were all out and I only saw a few Audis and Subarus on the road. The BMW climbed icy hills with no trouble at all. Did some donuts too - good times.
Best 5 series ever
Bert, 04/17/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
19 of 21 people found this review helpful
I've owned a lot of Bimmers. The E60 5-series 550i is my absolute favorite. Very composed and agile for it's size, it comes with a screaming 4.8l V8 good for 360HP (or about 500HP if you put an ESS supercharger on it like I did). I have owned mine for three or so years now, and the only issue I have had is with an intermittent clock reset due to a failing comfort access door handle. It is roomy, smooth, and comfortable for those long highway drives, but one must constantly be aware that the car tends to want to cruise at it's comfort zone of around 85MPH - i have had many occasions where I am doing the 65MPH limit, get distracted talking or listening to music, and then find myself at close to 90 when I look at the speedo again. The car is near silent and rock solid, so you really don't get the normal cues that you are speeding. Gas mileage is the Achilles heel of this car, though. I averaged about 15-16MPG in normal combined driving, which would drop to 10-12 if driven hard.
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Oil Level Gauge Failed Requiring a New Engine
Mark, 11/15/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
Loved the car, had the oil changed two months ago and the level indicator in the iDrive, plus the low level warning both failed to indicate that oil had leaked out through a failing seal. Level showed nearly full and checked it every time I fueled. Heard a knocking one day and then froze on the highway causing a major safety issue, towed it in after getting stuck in a construction zone with no spare lanes, the shop said there was only one quart of metal shavings oil left. Car needs a new engine at 160,000 miles. Huge mistake taking the dipstick out of the car. This is a huge mistake on BMWs part. My last 528i got 220,000 miles before trade and was as good as new.
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3 months in service, 3 years owned
Eersten Keer, 03/14/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
where do i begin? its a POS. in the 3 years i owned i cant say its a high performance vehicle because i have ALWAYS driven it with an existing problem. usually two problems at once. started with the tires that came on vehicle, factory recommended run flats that were causing vibration, did alignment, issue continued. replaced tires, issue went away partially because the boots needed to be replaced. water pump failed, flat bed truck towed, $$ thousands later, intermittent power reduction while driving, replaced two spark plugs and two coil overs, valve decarb recommended, replaced two spark plugs and two coil overs, no you're not seeing double, nor triple because power reduction again, and rpms all over the place, replaced both bank 1 & 2 turbos, $5k to find out it was the clutch (its a 6 speed manual) not the turbos, dealer could care less. i've never seen a car leak oil like this, its ridiculous, they replaced the oil housing 3 times, pretty much every oil change you replaced some major part. another power reduction issue caused by broken gasket, replaced that one too. this car promises 300hp, it never delivered because it always had an issue. the boot of the car contains all the electronics, a water bottle i had in trunk leaked and again power reduction, vehicle undriveable, $1100 to fix tpms sensor, like what does that have to do with engine power. and they had to reset the whole car. battery replacement $500+ has to be programmed. i swear they didnt make any of this up the dealer, but they might as well have. read around all 2005-2010 bmws have major issues like this. the list goes on, but i am at a loss for words.
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Performance sleeper
neal starr, 07/01/2017
updated 01/05/2022
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
16 of 18 people found this review helpful
I own a repair shop, so I did the repairs myself. Be careful buying from someone that did not maintain the engine. The engines will build carbon deposits on the intake valves. The injectors need to be updated. If it has an oil leak at the filter housing, have it fixed it can cause the drive belt to come off and get sucked into the oil pan . That is expensive to fix. All of the above still holds true. However, I still love this car. Is it expensive to maintain? Yes it is. Bear in mind this is a high performance luxury sedan. The ride is very stable, steering is extremely tight. I've put a couple of performance modifications in that help with keeping the intake valves clean. If you don't want a great ride, wonderful interior, great safety features and a high performance twin turbo then go buy a Camry.
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Great auto
Professor, 08/30/2009
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th BMW in the past 15 years and by far the best. The smooth engine/transmission cannot be beat. Local mpg is about 25 and highway is always 31-32 mpg at speed limit plus. The seats are comfortable even after 15 hour interstate runs. It has operated perfectly in all ways with the only trips to the dealer for oil and regular service. I did not originally like the body design but the driving balance and smooth functioning of the car have won me over. i-drive works easily if you spend 10 minutes to learn it rather than fearing and griping about it.
Trouble Free-Call it the Intimidator!
jcollum68, 09/28/2012
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
20 of 23 people found this review helpful
First of all, got this car in 2011 with 30K miles, stickered new for $69,500. It has $75K on it and is 100% trouble free. I have the sport backage in Carbon Black with tinted windows. What can I say, this car is beautiful yet intimidating. Blazing fast with amazing handling. Steering and brakes are A plus and the engine noise is a symphony. Those who look at numbers say a 535i is almost the same-no its not. Get a V8, a rare commodity nowadays. Plenty of room in the interior, high quality materials. I have driven many luxury cars, love teh E60 550i more than any and much more than the new F10 5 series--too big and bland. I want my cars with style, love it or hate it. Buy this car!
Smooth
Uncle Walt, 11/26/2009
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Bought this car as a CPO with 27,000 miles on. Like new condition. Of course it drives great; however, one surprise. 32.5 MPG!! I've had Cadillacs, Volvos and several other cars; none come close to this car.
Discouraged love for my BMW
Roro Alphonse, 03/25/2015
updated 09/25/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
24 of 29 people found this review helpful
I had my 08 535xi for 2 years as 2nd owner at 67K. I enjoy that ultimate driving machine for about only 5 months then trouble happened. I took it to a BMW dealer they gave an estimate for $10,135 to have everything fix. Twins turbo, fuel injection, O2 sensors then water pump and thermostat etc. I thought that car will give a brake now my radio doesn't work, monitor display turn only when it feels like. I have an inspection reject that cannot resolve due of O2 sensors and others things still not ready after about 600 miles driving, no check engine light on but can't pass inspection. Now, they told me I have to change T.C. Unit which is also controls the radio. This car is just problem!
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My 2008 535i
B.K., 12/20/2015
updated 06/29/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
My update on my 2008 BMW 535i is that the engine is a beast. The n54 is probably the best engine I've seen in a normal daily car. I recently had the alternator belt snap on me out of no where and I lost all power steering after. This ended up being a $2000 job at a local shop.
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Top notch
D.B., 05/29/2007
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for a little over a month and I do not have any regrets. The ride is excellent and so is the handling. I had considered a Mercedes E350 4-matic and an Audi A6 Quattro. I am glad I went with the BMW, I think I received much more for the money. I have also found the "very difficult" iDrive system very easy to use. Overall I rate this the best European luxury car that I have ever owned.
The Best Car For A Man
Jake, 10/05/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The 550i is amazing. It handles beautifully. The power is so amazing. It just pulls you into the seat. The headlights are awesome. The sound system is A+. There is nothing that I could think of that needs to be changed in the 550i. The seats are also a huge deal. They are super comfortable. The only thing is it eats fuel but the highway fuel economy is really good. But it's worth paying extra for fuel because the power is a great feeling.
Fun, fun, fun
Ron, 07/24/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
A fun car to drive. Integrated an amazing sport car into a sedan body. Very responsive and safe. Very comfortable front seats and a great sound system. The rear seat is comfortable for 2 adults and one smaller adult in the center.
Great Car!
sanjay8, 01/11/2011
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
14 of 17 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used about 1 year ago with 35000 miles and I have put on another 10,000 miles in the past year. The drive is amazing. It has had no problems as yet. After reading the reviews I am not sure if should keep this car past its warranty, which is up in 6 months. Sounds like the twin turbo is a problem. There is a recall in Canada to correct the high pressure fuel pump.
Too Many Problems
kblack1, 01/12/2012
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
38 of 49 people found this review helpful
Just to start, this is not my first car or my second. I understand there are no guarantees in life and cars are finnicky. Sometimes you just get a bad apple. But for the $$$ a 550i costs those apples should be fixed properly and the owner satisfied. I have owned quite a few vehicles in my now 17 years of driving. 2 of which were a 2003 325xi and a 2006 330i sport. Both of which had no problems. I purchased the 550i in 2010 with 33k miles. It was a CPO, which gave me comfort purchasing a used car. Not any more!!! I seriously doubt this car was properly inspected. Which is what I told BMW, and they passed the buck to the dealer who basically told me F off. Consistent problems!
BMW VALUES $ MORE THAN LIVES
Trish Majors, 07/23/2018
updated 01/30/2020
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
I special ordered a 2008 BMW 528i. It was a fun car to drive-the only pro. I had problems with the fuel pump (thank God while still under warranty). I took it into D-Patrick in Evansville, IN where I purchased the car. The service department agreed that the fuel pump was weak and had been a common problem with this vehicle. However, they said it wasn't "far enough gone" to warrant replacement by BMW. I took it in numerous times, being told the same thing each time. The fuel pump went out on me during rush hour traffic as I had just got on the approach to a bridge (in the left lane). The car lost ALL POWER! By the grace of GOD, I had barely enough speed to crest the hill on the bridge and coast down the other side & managed to get through traffic to pull to the right shoulder of roadway & wait for tow truck. When I notified D-Patrick's BMW service department, I was told that BMW designed the vehicle to shut down "to preserve the engine". However, service department NEVER mentioned this would happen either time I had brought it in for this problem. My question to them was "What about preserving my life and the lives of whomever could have been with me when the fuel pump went out? One would think, this would have been important information to share with me one of the times I took it in for problems with the fuel pump. They did replace it. However, SAME THING HAPPENED WHEN THE WATER PUMP WENT OUT A FEW WEEKS LATER. Needless to say, I sold the car at a huge loss of $ due to the lack of safety for me & my family. Had I known this was BMWs design, I WOULD HAVE NEVER PURCHASED THE CAR IN THE FIRST PLACE!
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Terrible transmission trouble
Andrew, 08/26/2008
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th BMW and I love the car with one major exception. There is a programming glitch in the transmission software which BMW has not been able to correct. The car slams down into first gear quite violently when I accelerate from low speed (such as when turning a corner onto an uphill grade) or slowing for a light and then re-accelerating without coming to a complete stop. The car has been back to the dealer twice - they have been superb, spending lots of time to try to solve the problem - but BMW corporately has no solution at this time. They say they hope to have a software upgrade sometime in September, but make no real promise that this will correct the problem. We shall see.
Rocketship for the whole family
Michael C, 08/21/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Absolutely amazing is the best way to describe it. My first BMW. Had the car for over 2 years now and could not imagine driving anything else within the same price range. The engine worried me for a short period but when I started using Chevron or Shell gas only, those problems disappeared. My bluetooth and IDrive seem to work flawlessly no matter which phone I pair to it. It was a whole lot more fun to drive it on the Autobahn (bought in Germany) but I can still find some open road every now and then and unleash it a little.
Too many problems
S, 10/17/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Fun car to drive, great performance, good fuel economy-but- way too many major mechanical problems. In three years there have been a major oil leak- had to carry a quart of oil with me to get it to the nearest dealer-battery failure, compressor failure and most recently high pressure fuel pump failure 400 miles from home. On several occasions BMW has been less than cooperative in addressing the warranty repair.
2008 With 49 K
Jim, 12/23/2021
updated 11/05/2024
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought this as a winter "beater". Had 49K on it so obviously sat a lot. Many bells and dings initially. headlights, transmission limp mode the whole nine yards. Bottom line, these cars MUST be driven. They HATE sitting. Changed every fluid, drove it and nursed up and down hills. After 1000 miles it purrs like no car I've ever owned. Rides like a tank in the snow and ice. With snow tires I cannot get it to slip or get squirrely. Every bit as solid as my Suburban. Caveat, if you cannot do your own maintenance and somewhat involved mechanical repairs do not buy a European car. They are not Japanese or American. If a light comes on you MUST address it soon. Otherwise issues begin to cascade and having a mechanic work on it is foolish. That being said, it really is the ultimate driving machine. So comfortable, so smooth and so powerful with very nice fuel economy. You won't want to drive anything else. June 27, 2022 64,000 miles. This Beemer continues to impress. the fuel economy of this 3.0 litre 6 is outstanding. Rides like a dream, handles like it's on rails, looks beautiful and is just solid fit and finish. My girlfriend has a 2019 Crosstrek and mentioned how much less this 14 year old vehicle rattles squeaks and makes road noise. Love this car!! Caveat. Only buy this car if you are a seasoned mechanic. Priced a brake job for grins and giggles. $1,000! I bought all the parts for $360.00 and did it myself in two hours. Definitely don't want to pay a mechanic. They hear "BMW" and their brain goes cha ching! December 28, 2022, had to run my girlfriend to Chicago during the Bomb Cyclone over Christmas. Not on time did I have a single concern, even in Indiana where the roads were horrific! The BMW X Drive system is unparalleled in my opinion. Just like having 4X4. I know my buddy swears by his SH AWD on his MDX but I can't imagine it is better than my 528 XI. Took care of the neglect early, now it's just oil changes and brakes. This car averaged 27 mpg through the storm, 30-50 mph headwinds most of the way. The heated steering wheel, quiet ride, lava hot defroster and headlight washer made this trip extremely comfortable. I used to give BMW's the side eye. Never again. At least for this 3.0 litre 6. Usual "Disclaimer", don't buy a BMW unless you can handle above average repairs. You must maintenance and repair these cars. No screwing around. Just turned 104,000. I have replaced all four struts at 100K. I also did the upper water hose neck as it is known to crumble. I'm now getting ready to get ahead of the water pump. But my transmission needs to be rebuilt. $4000. I'm actually going to do it. This car is so rocksteady, fun to drive, comfortable, powerful, easy to maintenance I just can't imagine not putting some love into her and maybe giving her to my son. Don't buy a BMW if you don't want to have strong, loving feelings for your vehicle. I just LOVE this car. Did I mention the heated steering wheel? <3 That 3.0 litre, naturally aspirated, straight six is bulletproof and wonderful!!!
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Great car but iDrive is still ridiculous
patrick, 11/12/2009
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The car handles incredibly well as a BMW should. It's quiet, fast, comfortable and fun. But if you are cold or hot...don't expect iDrive to help you out. It takes several minutes to get through the menus. Stupid. If you have an ipod...you better not have a lot of music on it...unlike the ipod scrolling function it takes FOREVER to get through the list. If you want to use the navigation to plot your route...don't use this system. It chokes on the simplest request. In short iDrive, if I had known how truly bad it was before I bought the car would likely have made me buy an Infiniti (and add Dynamat soundproofing). Better value. More intelligently designed user information and climate controls.
Rocket Ship Performance, Stellar Comfort
Mo, 11/11/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Just bought this car to replace my 2003 BMW 745Li. Got it with a short shift manual transmission, sport package and aero kit. The car is stellar in performance and handling - a breath of fresh air from my trusty 745. This is my eleventh BMW and is just as reliable if not better than the others. Brings back memories of my 1990 535i 5 speed. The comfort seats are very supportive and provide enough bolstering to encourage spirited driving
Fun car
turnlund, 08/23/2012
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
We have 140K miles on this car; only recurring issue has been the high pressure fuel pump. BMW replaced it twice, no charge and no questions. Very impressive car, we have at least 60K miles left in it.
Glad I leased and didn't buy- be careful
djl, 03/01/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
This was my first BMW and likely my last. Was initially excited about the ride, performance, and interior (except cup holders) until it stranded me twice. One engine failure at 75 mph! Have been through 3 thermostats, computer reprogramming, and more. Had hoped to buy it initially after lease end, now I'm glad I leased so I can walk away.
Wow! BMW Does It Again
Alexander, 07/27/2007
2008 BMW 5 Series 528xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
What an outstanding value. This car provides the perfect combination of acceleration and handling you'd expect from BMW. Fuel economy is good and the manual transmission ties it all together. The comfort seats are just simply unbelieveable. After 1600 mls of both highway and city driving, its clear that the 528xi has more than enough power to deliver the performance I need. I passed on the twin turbos and don't regret it a bit. Frankly, the 528xi is just plain fun to drive! The hot buttons on the iDrive dramatically simplify the system. The navigation system has the best display I've seen. The HUD is awesome.
Back to BMW
scoot ll, 05/15/2007
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After owning several Mercedes over the past 10 years I am happy to have owned my last one and am back into a new bimmer. We tried the new 3 cars but coming from the E class, the 5 car is a perfect fit. We drove the 528 and were pleased with the power but figured to go ahead and get the new rocket. Fuel economy is 22 mpg combined on the first 2 tanks which is just a tick lower than the E-320 @22-23 . The ride and drive is superb and the interior comfort and luxury is on par with the Benz except for the vinyl sun visors and the interior headliner is not as tailored .The power is smooth and instant and the iPod connect to the iDrive is way cool. Premium sound N.A., but standard is great/sat radio.
Back to being an old man
js, 08/21/2008
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Had traded a 530 for an X3 as I felt like I was becoming an old man with a sedan. One year later I'm back in a 535XI and I'm enjoying being a 45 year old old man. What a difference! Solid ride, good punch from the turbo, especially in sport mode.
Love, Love this car
ladybryant, 03/09/2011
2008 BMW 5 Series 528i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
this is my first BMW and i absolutely love it. it's very stylish and comfortable. a head turner. the gas milaege is average but overall i love it. my next car will definately be another beemer. i chose the 2008 premium model with idrive and could not be happier. it has all the bells and whistles
Awesome when it runs
Tom, 08/30/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 535xi 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great car to drive when it runs. Can has been in the shop 8 times in 6 months. Fuel injector, fuel pump, electrical problem, don't trust the car anymore. Go figure buy a dream car and it is junk.
No substitute for a V8
tjdjr, 05/18/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
You will not be disappointed with the 550i Sport Package. You must order the sport package with the sport transmission which includes the "wow" button and paddle shifters. You also must order the Logic 7 audio with the USB iPod adapter. Finally Heads up display should be on your option list along with NAV. This car is very comfortable at 90 miles per hour on the interstate. At a steady 75 MPH you will get 24-25 MPG, about 17 MPG around town. I have owned a 2006 750LI, a 2004 Porsche C4S Cabriolet, a 2003 540i Sport Package and other than the open air motoring of the Cab this car takes the best pieces of each and puts them in a single package. Find a good used one with low miles!
problem after problem
matt c, 01/27/2010
2008 BMW 5 Series 535i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great to drive and a wonderful car that gets 24 mpg in mixed driving when not broken. After about five months an oil light came on and then noticed a large oil spill at the house. The oil pump had exploded so the dealer took care of it. Then the power steering belt broke and took the AC out with it. Not exaggerating in saying the car went in for at least 10 visits and half were on a flat bed. I really like the car other than the fact I don't know when I am going to be stranded by the car. The Dealer did a shoddy job of fixing the initial problem which turned out to be a leak in some gasket they found after about ten visits. It appears that caused all the other problems.
BMW 550i
TX Buzzard, 12/12/2007
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After carefully considering the 535i, I drove this 550i. WOW! This vehicle is exactly what "The Ultimate Driving Machine" is all about. The mid-size with the large V8 motor, M/T and Sports Package make this vehicle simply a blast to drive. The best car I have ever owned!
Buy a Radar Detector!
Mitch, 04/23/2008
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wow is an understatement! We've owned our 550 for a year, and words do not do justice to this car. The one thing that I would add is that we specifically bought the 6-speed manual transmission, and it makes the car all that much more fun to drive. I will start smoothly in 1st, but 2nd and 3rd are nothing but a blast.
2008 550i with zero problems so far
Kush, 09/18/2016
updated 03/20/2017
2008 BMW 5 Series 550i 4dr Sedan (4.8L 8cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have a 2008 BMW 550i with 50K miles on it. I have zero problems with it so. I have only changed the oil and replaced the battery twice. Runs like a top. Will change Runs as good as new.
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- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability