Used 2009 BMW 5 Series Consumer Reviews
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Realistic review for people who want to buy a used 535i
I bought my 2009 535i with sport/cold/light packages with 49k miles. First make sure you find the service records on the car so you know what you will be facing. THIS CAR IS NOT A MAINTENANCE FREE CAR LIKE TOYOTA! With that being said, there is a lot of 'common' issues with this car. Gasket leaks, the HPFP (high pressure fuel pump) and one of the taillights have recalls so make sure you have the new HPFP. Water pump also goes to shit after about 50k miles i read so that is something i'm looking forward to. This is not a smooth car like Mercedes, you will feel the road. Other than that, the car can take serious curves, and the twin turbos make the car go!
Fuel System
Great car, but the problems with the fuel system are ridiculous. 4th time it has been in, reprogrammed software, new software, new fuel pump. This is a serious safety issue as the car will not get fuel and will stop or lose acceleration. BMW needs to take this seriously.
- 528i SedanMSRP: $9,99514 mi away
- 528i SedanMSRP: $4,65321 mi away
- 528i SedanMSRP: $7,999334 mi away
Worst Car I've Ever Owned
At 58,000 miles this BMW began failing on nearly every other drive. Even when I was selling it, it broke down on two consecutive test drives. The repairs were nearly $3,000.00 just for those two repairs. It's a fun enough car when it's running correctly but, given the performance of far more economical cars, I would never consider another BMW. I also have to comment on the tires: if you think this AWD car is going to perform in snow, you'll be disappointed. There's not enough tread depth in the low profile tires. You'll need dedicated snow tires if you drive in snow regularly. All in all, it was a bad experience. The car is overpriced. The dealership service department tries to gouge you (politely, of course) and the car is completely unreliable. I would never consider another one. **** its now been two years since I was lucky enough to sell the BMW. I have been asked to update my review. I can't over emphasize how unreliable the BMW was. I would never buy another turbo equipped BMW. I'm happily in a Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition and loving the ride, size and durability. I was a fool to buy that BMW. Chasing shiny objects...
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Unreliable
The car was awesome at first but then came the problems the fuel system replaced 3 times. The car continues to have fuel delivery problems. BMW told me we have extended the warranty to 10 years on the fuel system but that doesn't help when you're stranded on the road. Avoid the 135/335/535 models they are garbage. I have started the lemon law process.
Drives like a dream...
This car is probably one of the best cars I have ever owned/driven. It’s reliable, it’s sporty, it’s up to date, and it’s great on gas! It probably gets me 24-27 mpg if not more. The car is super strong, and I am so thankful for that. I just hit a semi truck on the freeway and the only thing that was damaged was the fender and just heavy scratches on the door. The car is great. From my experience with cars, the worst thing to buy is a BMW with a turbo engine, like the 535i. They’re unreliable and cost a lot to repair. The 528i on the other hand is very well built. The only thing about the 2009 that gets me is the iDrive system, which was updated in 2010. The version is outdated. Also, the climate controls are a bit complicated as well, but they’re kind of fancy at the same time. I do recommend this car to anyone who is looking to buy a used car that is as modern as a 2018. Great choice! Great on gas! Very economical!!
Great Car, Wishful Thinking Too much hipe?
2009 BMW 535i idrive w/sport pkg. By April 2017, had only 60,000 driven. Very disappointed with this ultimate driving machine. For me it was an "ultimate nightmare machine." Started with--heating system, passenger freezing, driver boiling up (heater master control on driver side). After warranty expired in 2013 to 2017, almost four years, been stranded twice; had changed all four tires; changed fuel pump, tank and sensors; replaced the battery, and the battery clamp and cable, and replaced the passenger seat belt and airbag which was shorted out by the water leaked into the battery chamber in the trunk; fixed oil leak on the oil filter housing gasket, and counting. Paying almost $70k for this car I Do expect it to be more durable. As I would not expect a $100.00 suit to last as a $500 suit so I except 553i to be more durable than a $30k's. Update: The MOST disappointing is the trade in value was just $10,000 was all the dealer paid what a useless 535-BMW. Never Again will I make the same mistake....
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Lives Up to Its Reputation
This car is a beast; a wolf in sheep's clothing. I had a chance to drive it through windy VT mountain roads, including on the southern descent from Middlebury Gap (near Middlebury Snow Bowl) on Rt. 125. Those familiar with that route know how steep and windy those roads are. My wife's 5-series handled them with aplomb. I was very impressed. My wife bought this car with 48k miles on it back in 2012, certified pre-owned. The 5-series was her dream car, and this particular vehicle has served her well. The body has stayed in great shape, despite several scratches and dents it has incurred over the years. The interior has held up and endured our spills and messes. There have been no crazy repairs needed, and it drives as good as the day we procured it. Over time, its looks have grown on me. I have come to really appreciate its driving characteristics, and can see why Edmunds had proclaimed it as close to a perfect car as you could buy back in 2009. We have never put snow tires on it for winter, yet never had any problems in the snow, thanks to the xDrive. Currently at approximately 120k miles, this car shows no signs of slowing down. My reverence for it has never been higher. As tempted as we are to trade it in for a newer BMW, we just have no reason to. I can't wait to enjoy this car for more years to come.
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Not the Ultimate Driving Machine
This is a great car for performance and driving dynamics. This is not a good car for reliability, quality and running costs. I've had countless check engine lights, failed window regulators, excessive oil consumption, failed steering pump, failed ABS sensors, premature headlight failures, transmission shuddering, EGV failure, and few electronic issues in the interior components. Many of these issues were covered under warranty. However, the amount of time spent in and out of the dealer was ridiculous. Some repairs like the transmission shudder couldn't be remedied. This is the worst car I've owned in terms of reliability. It's the worst in maintaining its value. I sold it at a loss but I'm very glad that I did.
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Are you willing to trade the good for the bad?
My 535i came with the sport package, which does improve handling--especially the active roll bar in the rear. This car rides almost like an Avalon in a straight line, but has almost ZERO body roll on a turn. Really amazing handling. The turbo engine is very impressive as well. HOWEVER, you cannot change your battery on your own. The dealer MUST do it. Seriously--I'm a DIY car guy. Also, I just had two injectors replaced at 20K MILES. BMW forum people act like the injectors are SUPPOSED to go out because they're just such "high performance", but I've had 3 Lexuses with direct inject and had ZERO problems. On top of reliability being spotty, the dealer treated me like a pariah.
Very good & getting better
This is our 3rd 5 series starting in 2003, 2006 and 2009. Each model has gotten better, especially with horsepower. The 2003 could barely get out of its own way. Over the years they have increased horsepower by 50. The car drives great, handles well and is good on gas. Sound, navigation systems are great and seat comfort is also fine. It still could use an upgrade on horsepower over 230.
Too Good To Be True
Traded in my E46 M3 after 6 years. Purchased a white 550i with Sport & Cold Weather packages & lots of other goodies. The car looks fabulous; the LED side & rear lights and Angel Eye DRLs make the car unique and very attractive. The acceleration, handling and fuel economy are comparable to my old M3 but without the "nervousness". I've never purchased a car that gave me the satisfaction of ownership that I receive from my 550i. The whole automobile is a work of art, from the anthracite tailpipes to the black front air intake; a study in black and white. The Sport Package makes the current 550i better and more modern looking than the 2010 version.
What a car!
After owning many marques, finally bought a BMW. The car handles like a slot car, is quiet and good-riding, and has fantastic brakes. Wish I'd bought one years ago.
Ultimate not considering the run flats
Leased on 535i with 6 spd, premium, sports and cod weather package. Took off the run flats and am storing them until the end of the lease. This is the 2nd BMW I have followed this ritual. Car handles like it is on rails. Performance is sooo sweet. Previously had a 530i with manual. The extra ponies - 45 or so are noticeable and the torque comes on just above idle at 1400 and stays flat until about redline. I commute about 45 miles to work and this beemer makes going to work fun! Have had beemers since 2000 and they are the utmost fun to drive but run flats stink big time. BMW- please hear this = run flats belong on a Lexus for those who don't want to change a tire in the rain.
Bought used 2018
So when I first purchased the car I primarily had it for a daily vehicle only and I will say this. The transmission needs to be updated (per mechanics) so I can’t drive it as you normally would (I have driven the car only 25% throttle and under 3k RPM). Car had 98k on it so I knew some issues would occur but nothing major typical oil changes, A/C change, brakes and tires. I drive local streets anyways so I don’t need full power per say but I do get on highways for work. The car drives like a big boat haha but a comfortable one at that. BMW is known for their reliability and as this is my first I will say it sort of is. Look I will give a more detailed upon my first new bmw (if I ever buy one in my life) but this 528i has been better than what I expected. It’s sitting at 125k right now I average 15mpg mixed and I’m happy. The sound system stock is below avg I would say but I am comparing to a 2014 Lexus is350 with the mark Levinson surround sound (which I feel is the best system I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing) yes the maintenance on bmw is pricey and for good reason all the electrical parts, the overseas for parts, and the rarity since they discontinue parts as soon as the new gens come into play so you gotta pick your poison. I knew what I was getting into price wise but I didn’t know this car would be more than what I expected driving and owning and it’s been great for what I am using it for. This is my grocery getter, work hauler, and weekend car all in one for a used bmw w/ issues that’s still running like a champ. The I6 are legendary and reliable for good reason.
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BMW = Bring More Wrenches
All I can say about BMW is that the design and looks of their cars is amazing. Other than that. Their cars are anything and everything but reliable. BMW is by far the worst piece of crap I’ve ever owned . All kinds of malfunctions and ridiculous issuesthat I had not encountered with any other vehicle. Everything from electrical issues, power window issues, to bad transfer case on my 535 xDrive with barely 100k miles. Really??!! For no freaking reason??! In fewer words. BMW is German junk that is manufactured to break. Whatever you do. Do not buy a BMW. And if you end up buying one by some unfortunate bad decision. Go buy a new one. Don’t go buying a used one. Those things were made to completely break down after 100kmiles. These last few months. My [non-permissible content removed] dashboard was lit up like a Xmas tree! All kinds of faults going on for no reason. From my own experience. I am DONE with BMW . Never again.
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Not the Ultimate Driving Machine
Thought I got the ultimate driving machine this spring. At 5K miles, check engine light came on 3 times! Fixed 3 times (software update, fuel injector replacement, new fuel pump). At 7500 miles, light came on again, lost power and car shut off! Had to be towed to dealer as fuel injector and cylinder blown to smithereens. Dealer has been responsive in replacing parts under warranty, but car is not reliable and not safe at this point. Filed for reimbursement through Lemon Law since 4th occurrence. No response from BMW after 30 days. Have found lots of others having same issues on many blogs. Stay away from turbo models!
BMW 550i review
this is our 3rd bmw previously owned an 07 convertible & 07 7series. there is alot to luv and enjoy about this car. comfort, ride, luxury all in one package. standouts are the sports mode/pkg/kit & signature silver color. hd radio stands out immediately more car companies should offer it.
Another great product from BMW
Love the car overall. The acceleration leaves a lot to be desired. I am mystified by the cheap cup holders in the front seat. For $50,000 I expect more. The car takes the road well. The new iDrive is much improved from years past.
The Ultimate Drive
This is my 4th BMW. Had an X5, 325i, 328xi, and now 528i Xdrive. I always think I want something else. When it comes down to it nothing competes with the drive and handling of the BMW. Not Mercedes, Jaguar, Infinity, etc, and I have tried them all. Fun to drive and luxurious all at the same time. Gas mileage is not bad for the full size car. BMW definitely holds up to its slogan the Ultimate Driving Machine.
New 528i xdrive owner
First time BMW owner and love the car. Got the Nav, Prem, Ipod link , SAT radio, adaptive xenons and cold weather packages. Was looking at Hyundai Genesis, Infiniti G35x but the BMW blew me away. I really can't wait to drive it. Very quiet and responsive - 3.0l seems bigger and more powerful, handling is superb and the ride is firm but very comfortable, idrive is really very easy to use not sure why all the hubbub- just takes a bit of practice. If this sustains I will be a BMW guy for life. Winding and wet roads are life for me and the car sticks like glue. Fit and finish flawless. Very roomy for 4. Not enough road time for economy rating yet. Stock sound system is very good.
Love the car, don’t like the repair expenses
This car is a great car. It has great acceleration, a smooth,quiet ride and gives you confidence as it holds the road. I drive a lot of miles with my job and I just love being in this car. My car has many miles on it and I am thinking of a new vehicle, but am scared that whatever I get will not measure up to this. What I don’t like is the repairs. I have literally had to replace every one of the injectors and high pressure pumps. Now most of this was covered under warranty, but BMW knew there was an issue, but would not proactively replace these, so every time one went, I would have to limp one hour to the dealership to get the repairs. If you cannot stomach $1000 repairs etc, this car is not for you. I honestly love BMWs , but may not be considering one due to the exorbitant cost of repairs and maintenance. I absolutely hate going to my dealership as they try to gouge you every time you go there.
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Dont buy used BMW.
I bought the car used 2 years ago. 2nd day I noticed it had transmission problem. The problem never got worse I just learned to drive with the issue. Had issues with oil cooler gasket seal and coolant reservoir leaking. Then 2 years later the car starting rattling on ideal. Took it to the mechanic and he said the head gasket needs to be replaced; better if the engine was replaced. I ended up selling the car for huge lose. Driving is the best. Reliability is missing. Please don’t buy used BMW. Very impressed with transmission considering that the problem did not get worse with 2 years of driving.
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Love this car
Just purchased the 535i xDrive and absolutely love it. It handles curves like no other sedan in its class. Really have to pay attention to my speed because of smooth ride. Fuel economy isn't bad for 300 horses and vehicle weight - currently getting 25 to 27 highway, but still in break-in period. Very comfortable interior with lots of room. Could use a little more storage, but not a major issue - the golf clubs fit fine! I do agree that the cup holders are ridiculous.
2009 535i x drive 6 speed manual
The 2009 535i with x drive is an incredible driving machine. This car with a 6 speed manual transmission is a "monster" to drive. The engine's power will be evident as soon as you put your foot down on the pedal. The navigation system has been upgraded with several "short cut" buttons surrounding the iDrive. It is a pleasure to use once you have been shown the basic functions. It is logical and easy to use. Since my 535i xDrive was the first of the 2009s to get here I currently have 2000 miles driven and no problems yet. The handling is precise. Gas mileage is around 21MPG city. A little higher on the highway. It could use more storage but it is not a major issue.
Stereo is NOT good
I didn't get the high end stereo package and it has really minimized my affection for the car. At 60k this stereo sounds similar to a much less expensive car. Shame on you BMW!
Born to Run
Just turned in my leased '07 530xi for an '09 535i. Almost cried, as the '07 was simply an exceptional car. If it weren't for the very high buyout, I would have purchased the car. Found a new 535i with sport pkg, nav, cold weather, etc for an absolute steal. The changes from '07 are wonderful, better leather, the sport seats are thrones and they seemed to have fixed the noisy moonroof issue. Not that the '07 was underpowered, but the '09 just flies. 80 comes up quickly and its really hard to obey the owner's manual to keep it under 100 during breakin. Car is very quiet, even with the sport package and the ride is as supple (if not more) than the 530xi (non-sport). Hope to keep this car.
Battery
Previous post was incorrect the BMW just needed a new battery and had symptoms and said failed transmission which was just the battery doing it.
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Wow, Great Car!!!!
Well it's been 4 years since I've owned a Beemer (02' 330i Conv. Sports), have been in a 05' Mercedes CLK500 and 97'Porsche 911 Conv. It's great to own a Beemer again, don't think I'll ever go back to a Merc (quality was sub par although engine and power were amazing). Been driving my 535I sports package for the last couple of weeks and am extremely impressed, I was worried that I would miss the power of my CLK500 but have been satisfied with my 535I twin turbo engine. Interior with black bamboo is fantastic, this is the most comfortable car I have ever been in, more than enough space and the contour seats are great. Overall handling is superb and the drive is smooth. Cabin is extremely quite.
POS
Do not buy a BMW period. It has been an absolute nightmare. I'm a hard working family man hoping to buy a safe sporty nice car for my wife and kids. Had 88,000 miles when I bought 2 wks in replaced coil packs. Then low oil level sensor then air conditioner went out, then battery then starter. Then transmission would not go in reverse then intake gasket went bad then 3 window motors quit working then transmission went out and I still owe 7,000 on it. Wish I could meet engineers in a parking lot and physically show them what I think of their cars. DO NOT BUY.
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Owner
It is as good as it gets. I like it.
It's worth it!
I purchased my 3rd BMW, and I am glad I did. I had not driven one for over a year and had forgotten why I keep going back. It just keeps getting better. My car has the sport and prem packages and well worth it.
Best fun car in its class
This was the best fun car in its class. I always look forward to drive this machine every day. Handles the sharp corners exceptionally well. It has pretty good MPG in city too. Overall am thrilled to have 300 horses it in my stable.
Good one
I am spoiled to BMWs. Each one seems to get better. My '09 528i is very solid. I had an '06 530i which got great mileage and I'm hoping this car will get better as I get more miles on it. The shifting is silky smooth and build quality is good. The improvements in the idrive are notable - pushbuttons for CD, Radio, Telephone, etc. It's a little pricey but it's worth a little more if you're enthusiastic about what you drive.
Great Car
Driven the car for just under 3,000 miles and it's fantastic so far. Heated seats and steering wheel combined with X-Drive have been excellent during this active New England winter. Best driving car I've ever owned, and interior annoyances (lack of storage space, cup holders) are acceptable given the driving dynamics, all-weather aplomb and overall content of the car.
So good - wish I'd known earlier
Previous owner of 325 and 328xi coupe. On top of all the attributes of a 5-series -- much more comfortable interior, quiet and luxurious ride but still that BMW feel and handling -- it gets better in-town gas mileage than the coupe. I got over worrying about I-drive and learned to enjoy it.
Better and Better
I just bought this turned in my 07 and wow what a difference for only 2 years. You can notice a little more pickup, the 07 525 was a real dog. The handling and suspension, what can you say it's a BMW, I told myself I'd buy a Genesis or try something new, but for an enthusiast driver, THERE IS NO COMPARISON TO THE FEEL OF A BMW this car is soo tight.
My Best Bimmer Yet!
I've owned this car for about 2 months, and just returned from my first road trip. It took a little getting used to its "heft" compared with the 3 Series it replaced, but now that I'm used to that, and the operation of the iDrive, I really love the car. It's very smooth and comfortable, and has deceptively great handling. I'm still in "break in mode", doing more stop- and-go, and am getting about 27 mpg. The 5 Series is just a joy to drive, puts a smile on my face every time I press that "start" button.
Awesome!
This is my first BMW. It's incredibly comfortable and fun to drive. Great performance, stability and luxury. Very quiet ride so I can hear the music clearly on radio or CD when put on low volume!
1st BMW - I'm hooked!
Test drove the 528i and fell in love! My husband also wanted to try out the X5...it was nice, but the handling wasn't as good as the 5series. So, I've been driving my 528i for only a few weeks now but am in LOVE with it! I got the Premium and Sport packages. The 20-way seat feels like it hugs my body. Haven't used the heated seats yet in the Florida summer, but look forward to trying them out if we have a cold winter. This is the smoothest, quietest ride I've ever had, and great acceleration. I love the i-drive...it did take a little getting used to but the learning curve wasn't long and well worth it.
Best car I have ever owned
Car gets great gas mileage with great performance, super quiet interior. This is my first BMW but it won't be my last. I'm hooked!
2009 528i
BMW is actually 2009. We bought it as CPO in 2012. We have driven it over 70,000 miles, now has 103,xxx miles on vehicle. Car is a tank and now protects our children. Would love to upgrade radio, but unable to do so because of BMW's engineering. We enjoy it and our kids really enjoy the ultimate driving machine.
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Bmw
Great car
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528i, 2 year (59k-79k miles) experience
This review is specifically for 528i with N52 3.0 naturally aspirated engine and 6 seed ZF transmission. Known pretty reliable engine and transmission combination. So far, I had to replace windshield water pump (DIY 10 dollars, easy repair) and serpentine belt (70 dollars, you can have it fixed around 200 dollars). I am a car enthusiast. I rented 2019 540i to compare with mine. New BMW is a little bit smoother on road with lighter steering wheel. The cabin noise has been reduced. Otherwise, everything is pretty similar. Of course, new BMW has large 10 inch multimedia screen. Since I installed 10.8 inch android head unit with back up camera to my car. I believe mine is better than the new BMW`s. In my 3rd year with 82k miles on it, I did not have any additional problem with the car. The key thing is MAINTENANCE. I change engine oil and filter every 6 month. Going to change the water pump and thermostat (around 350 dollars DIY), transmission oil too. Although BMW says it is lifetime, ZF says change it every 30-60k.
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Ultimate driving Machine
BMW truly deserves the title of ultimate driving machine. The 528i has enough power with exceptional handling and ride quality. No other car provides the same steering feedback and handling. Love the car and can't wait to drive it, car gets looks while on the road. This is my 1st BMW and will not be the last.
Hunk of junk
Had a 2009 528xi bought it new almost 50.000$ hardly ever drove it in 5 years it had 19.000 miles on it well I went to start it to go to my local lowes store went two blocks and made a funny noice came on my screen transition failur call BMW so I got it home at 5 miles a hour it said I could drive slow had triple AAA tow it to Toledo Ohio to the BMW dealer and after three hours the service manger come and says the tranny is out of it and It's out of warranty by two months not miles but months said it would be almost 11.000$ dollars for a rebuilt one plus it needed a shift kit to I about died took a whole week to fix fought on phone with BMW to see if they would cover it but they said they would split it with me big deal it still cost me 6.500$ was mine the screwed me I drove it home and traded it for a new truck two days later junk pure junk stay away from the cars my brother has a has a 6 seares suv BMW bought it new he lives in calaforina and his is a 2015 and he said what junk his is he only has 13.000 miles on his when his lease is up he. Is getting a Ford Edge I have sold it thank god
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Just May be the Perfect Car
Just came off lease on X5 4.4 and considered X5 (4.8), Porsche Cayenne S and A6 (didn't like looks of E series but strong bias for Germans). Wanted sedan for performance and fuel mileage, didn't need exhaust note of V8 or ridicule from wife over "Porsche" name plate. Needed all wheel drive for winter. So far this is the perfect car -- handles so much better than the best handling SUVs. Very responsive - turbo lag only noticeable to extreme gearhead. Exterior is a little boring (not as much as A6) so get some nice wheels.