Common Problems with the BMW 5 Series: What You Need Know

The BMW 5 Series is a car that turns heads — and for good reason. It’s stylish, smooth to drive, and packed with tech. But if you’re thinking of buying one (especially a used model), it’s worth knowing what you might be getting into.

While the 5 Series is a fantastic car overall, it does come with some quirks. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common BMW 5 Series problems, so you can buy smart and avoid any costly surprises.

1. Timing Chain Trouble (Diesel Owners, Heads Up)

If you’re eyeing a diesel BMW 5 Series from around 2007 to 2011, especially with the N47 engine, there’s one issue that keeps popping up: timing chain failure.

🛠 What to look for:

  • Rattling noise from the engine
  • Slow or rough starts
  • Engine warning lights

This isn’t just annoying — it can be a wallet-buster if the chain snaps. Always check the service history and see if it’s been replaced.


2. Electrical Gremlins

BMWs are packed with tech. That’s part of what makes them fun. But more tech also means more things that can go wrong — and in the 5 Series, they sometimes do.

🔌 Common complaints:

  • iDrive screen freezing or acting up
  • Random warning lights
  • Parking sensors not working
  • Issues with door locks or windows

Usually not dealbreakers, but definitely frustrating.


3. Suspension Wear and Tear

The 5 Series handles beautifully — but over time, that takes a toll on the suspension system, especially on higher-mileage cars.

🚗 Watch for:

  • Clunking or knocking over bumps
  • Uneven tyre wear
  • Steering feeling loose or vague

Most of this can be fixed, but parts and labour aren’t always cheap — so it’s good to know before you buy.


4. Transmission Woes

Many BMW 5 Series models come with ZF automatic gearboxes, which are great — if they’ve been looked after.

⚙️ Signs of trouble:

  • Rough gear changes
  • Delayed response
  • Fluid leaks

Ask if the transmission fluid has been changed (ideally around every 60k–80k miles). If it hasn’t, you might want to keep shopping.


5. Cooling System Headaches

BMWs and cooling systems have a long-standing love/hate relationship. Leaky water pumps and overheating are pretty common, especially on older models.

🌡 Look out for:

  • Overheating alerts
  • Low coolant levels
  • White smoke from under the bonnet

Overheating can lead to serious engine damage — so don’t ignore it.


6. Oil Leaks

One of the more common — but often overlooked — problems on the 5 Series is oil leaks. They usually come from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing.

🛢 Typical signs:

  • Oil spots on the driveway
  • Burning oil smell
  • Low oil level warnings

Fixable? Yes. Cheap? Not always. Just something to keep an eye out for.


7. DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Problems

If you’re buying a diesel 5 Series, especially for short trips or city driving, the DPF can clog up over time.

💨 Watch for:

  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Warning lights related to emissions

A new DPF can be expensive, so make sure it’s been looked after — regular motorway drives help keep it clean.


So, Should You Still Buy a 5 Series?

Definitely — just be smart about it. The BMW 5 Series is a fantastic car when well-maintained. The key is making sure the one you’re looking at has been cared for properly.

Pro tip: Always get a pre-purchase inspection, or use a trusted service like Carexamer to make sure everything checks out before handing over your cash.


Final Thoughts

The BMW 5 Series offers a brilliant blend of comfort, performance, and premium feel — but like any car, it’s not perfect. Knowing the most common issues upfront helps you make a better buying decision, and avoid the dreaded “should’ve checked that first” moment later on.

Do your homework, ask the right questions, and get it inspected — and you’ll be cruising in one of the best luxury sedans out there.

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