5 Series buyers guide - All models

[jeff_denning]

Thought this might be a good sticky since I've seen a few threads asking what to look out for, what models are available etc etc
Would be a awesome to have consolidated info for all the BMW models, all in the relevant threads

Naturally, this will be a constant work in progress and I'll also need feedback on specific models as my knowledge is mostly limited to the E39 series. Would just be nice to refer to this This will be focused on the SA market more than anything else.

E12 (1972 - 1981)

What to look out for:

Rust, everywhere.
Cooling system must have had regular care.
Cracked heads are common.
Sun cracked dashboards.
Push-button controls break easily.
Non-returning indicator stalk.
Leaking heater valve drips into passenger footwell carpet.
Various interior trim will be buggered by now, unless well looked after.
Chrome bumpers available from BMW if you sell your home, so check for dents.
Bonnet release cable fails.
Trunk gasket perishes, causing leaks into trunk and...rust again.
Cracked and fogged up lamps and lenses.
All suspension components.
Besides overheating, the engines are tough, as are the gearboxes and diffs.

Model variations:

1974 518 - 1.8 L M118 I4
1976 518 - 1.8 L M42 I4
1980 518 - 1.8 L M10B18 I4
1972 520 - 2.0 L M17 I4, 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS)
1972 520i - 2.0 L M64 fuel-injected I4, 125 hp (93 kW; 127 PS)
1977 520 - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 hp
1973 525 - 2.5 L I6
1975 528i - 2.8 L I6
1975 530i - 3.0 L I6, 176 hp (131 kW; 178 PS)
1976 530 Motorsport Limited Edition - 3.0 L I6, 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS)
1979 M535i - 3.5 L I6, 218 hp (163 kW; 221 PS)

E28 (1982–1988)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

518/518i- 1.8 L M10B18
520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6
524d - 2.4 L M21 diesel I6
524td - 2.4 L M21 turbodiesel I6
525i - 2.5 L M30B25 I6
525e - 2.7 L M20B27 I6
528i - 2.8 L M30B28 I6 first 177 hp 1978 after 1979 184 hp
530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6
535i/M535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6
M5 - M88 I6, 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
High-performance 5 Series - 24-valve DOHC, I6, six throttle bodies, Bosch Motronic integrated fuel injection. At its launch in 1984, the European specification E28 M5 was the fastest production sedan in the world.

E34 (1988–1996)

What to look out for:
- Infamous brake shudder at around 80KM/H
- Suspension (Sway bar links, control arms + bushes)
- Cooling system especially WATER PUMP and fan clutch!
- Any AUTOMATIC ; check for hesitation, jolts, smooth shifts
- Cancer! a.k.a rust, especially on the lower door trims
- Spare tire, tools, jack and that wedge-thingy Bluebiggrin
- The OBC
- Rear roller sun blind

-Preferably avoid earlier models with M20-based engines since they're not too fuel efficient compared to M50 engines and
ultimately the single VANOS after 1993 Thinking

-Best overall E34? me thinks the 535i with the M30 engine... but I still love my revving M50B25 non-vanos Bluebiggrin

Model variations:

1989–1994 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M40B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1994–1996 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M43B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1995–1996 BMW 518g (CNG) Touring - 1.8 L M43B18 I4
1987–1990 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp)
1987–1990 BMW 520i ECE - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) higher compression than non ECE
1990–1996 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M50B20 I6 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)
1988–1991 BMW 524td - 2.4 L M21 I6 diesel
1993–1995 BMW 525td - 2.5 L M51D25 UL I6 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) diesel
1991–1995 BMW 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25 OL I6 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) diesel
1987–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525iX - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) Very rare
1988–1990 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6 184 PS (135 kW; 181 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M60B30 V8 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp)
1987–1993 BMW 535i - 3.4 L M30B35 I6 211 PS (155 kW; 208 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 540i - 4.0 L M60B40 V8 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
1990–1993 BMW M5 - 3.6 L S38B36 I6, 315 PS (232 kW; 311 hp)
1994–1996 BMW M5 - 3.8 L S38B38 I6, 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp)

E39 (1995–2003)

What to look out for:

• Extended VANOS noise/rattle after start-up

• Propshaft couplings/ centre bearing

• Bushings

• FSH, or when last serviced and by who

• Clutch

• Brake Discs warped/ damaged

• Electrics

• Oil leaks around the engine bay (tappet cover weeping) and diff

• Gearbox

• Any smoke coming from the exhaust

• Oil levels

• Chips on the windscreen, fog lights and headlights

• Tire kit in the boot (for M5's) and spare wheel for other models

• Power steering hose leaks

• Missing splash covers

Model variations:

1996–2000 520i - 2.0 L M52B20 I6, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2000–2003 520i - 2.2 L M54B22 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
1996–2000 523i - 2.5 L M52B25 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2000–2003 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 141 kW (192 PS; 189 hp)
1996–1999 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
1999–2000 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 TU I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
2000–2003 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 172 kW (234 PS; 231 hp)
1996–2003 535i - 3.5 L M62B35 V8, 183 kW (249 PS; 245 hp)
1996–1998 540i - 4.4 L M62B44 V8, 213 kW (290 PS; 286 hp)
1998–2003 540i - 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8, 216 kW (294 PS; 290 hp)
1998–2003 M5 - 4.9 L S62 V8, 298 kW (405 PS; 400 hp)
2000–2003 520d - 2.0 L M47D20 diesel I4 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp)
2000–2003 525d - 2.5 L M57D25 diesel I6 122 kW (166 PS; 164 hp)
1997–2000 525td - 2.5 L M51D25TU UL diesel I6 85 kW (116 PS; 114 hp)
1996–2000 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25TU OL diesel I6 105 kW (143 PS; 141 hp)
1998–2000 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 135 kW (184 PS; 181 hp)
2000–2003 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp)

E60 (2003–2010)

What to look out for:

After 150000km sealing sleeve on the steptronic gearbox and gearbox oil pan gasket may need replacing If you have any gearbox oil leaks

A grinding noise after start up that goes away after a wile is most proberbly the steering pump on its way out

Model variations:

2005–2006 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2006–2007 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 120 kW (163 PS; 161 hp)
2007- 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 130.5 kW (177 PS; 175 hp)
2003–2005 520i - 2.2 L (2171 cc) I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2007- 520i - 2.0 L (1995 cc) I4, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2004–2007 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 130 kW (177 PS; 174 hp)
2007- 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 140 kW (190 PS; 188 hp)
2004–2007 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2007- 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2996 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2004–2007 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 190 kW (258 PS; 255 hp)
2007- 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp)
2004–2007 530d/xd - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 175 kW (238 PS; 235 hp) and 500 N·m (370 ft·lbf)
2004- 535d - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) and 413 ft·lbf (560 N·m) (compression ratio: 16.5:1)
2006- M5 - 5.0 L S85 V10, 373 kW (507 PS; 500 hp)

F10 (2010- present)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

?




Recommended reading:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E12)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E28)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E34)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(F10)
www.realoem.com

Please add your list of things to look out for or anything I've missed Will edit this post as I go along. The question marks need to be filled in :=):

 

[CamZo]

Nice one Jeff was thinking of doing the same for all models... it will help the new members a lot. lets build on it before we sticky it

 

[jeff_denning]

Nice one Jeff was thinking of doing the same for all models... it will help the new members a lot. lets build on it before we sticky it

Sounds good to me
Will drop some research down tonight and post it up to cover more models than just the E39 - since that's my kind of strong point :rollsmile:

 

[Raybimmer]

This list covers models we never got in SA , should they be edited out ?
I have the e34 sales brochure 4 11 05 01 24 ( in English )Printed in germany 1994 .
The prices were 151298 for a 520i to 275798 for a 540i !!
Sunroof was R4220 , Sports seats manual R1905 and sports seats electric ( 530 / 540 ) were 2420 .

 

[maximus]

lol R151 298 nowadays don't sound too much :biglol: :roflol:

---

E34 (1988–1996)

What to look out for:
- Infamous brake shudder at around 80KM/H
- Suspension (Sway bar links, control arms + bushes)
- Cooling system especially WATER PUMP and fan clutch!
- Any AUTOMATIC ; check for hesitation, jolts, smooth shifts
- Cancer! a.k.a rust, especially on the lower door trims
- Spare tire, tools, jack and that wedge-thingy
- The OBC
- Rear roller sun blind

-Preferably avoid earlier models with M20-based engines since they're not too fuel efficient compared to M50 engines and
ultimately the single VANOS after 1993 :thinking:

-Best overall E34? me thinks the 535i with the M30 engine... but I still love my revving M50B25 non-vanos

 

[abmi0000]

Something generic that I started not too long ago http://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=30550

 

[TOOFAST MP]

Thought this might be a good sticky since I've seen a few threads asking what to look out for, what models are available etc etc
Would be a awesome to have consolidated info for all the BMW models, all in the relevant threads

Naturally, this will be a constant work in progress and I'll also need feedback on specific models as my knowledge is mostly limited to the E39 series. Would just be nice to refer to this This will be focused on the SA market more than anything else.

E12 (1972 - 1981)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

1974 518 - 1.8 L M118 I4
1976 518 - 1.8 L M42 I4
1980 518 - 1.8 L M10B18 I4
1972 520 - 2.0 L M17 I4, 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS)
1972 520i - 2.0 L M64 fuel-injected I4, 125 hp (93 kW; 127 PS)
1977 520 - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 hp
1973 525 - 2.5 L I6
1975 528i - 2.8 L I6
1975 530i - 3.0 L I6, 176 hp (131 kW; 178 PS)
1976 530 Motorsport Limited Edition - 3.0 L I6, 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS)
1979 M535i - 3.5 L I6, 218 hp (163 kW; 221 PS)

E28 (1982–1988)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

518/518i- 1.8 L M10B18
520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6
524d - 2.4 L M21 diesel I6
524td - 2.4 L M21 turbodiesel I6
525i - 2.5 L M30B25 I6
525e - 2.7 L M20B27 I6
528i - 2.8 L M30B28 I6 first 177 hp 1978 after 1979 184 hp
530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6
535i/M535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6
M5 - M88 I6, 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
High-performance 5 Series - 24-valve DOHC, I6, six throttle bodies, Bosch Motronic integrated fuel injection. At its launch in 1984, the European specification E28 M5 was the fastest production sedan in the world.

E34 (1988–1996)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

1989–1994 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M40B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1994–1996 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M43B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1995–1996 BMW 518g (CNG) Touring - 1.8 L M43B18 I4
1987–1990 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp)
1987–1990 BMW 520i ECE - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) higher compression than non ECE
1990–1996 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M50B20 I6 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)
1988–1991 BMW 524td - 2.4 L M21 I6 diesel
1993–1995 BMW 525td - 2.5 L M51D25 UL I6 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) diesel
1991–1995 BMW 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25 OL I6 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) diesel
1987–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525iX - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) Very rare
1988–1990 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6 184 PS (135 kW; 181 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M60B30 V8 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp)
1987–1993 BMW 535i - 3.4 L M30B35 I6 211 PS (155 kW; 208 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 540i - 4.0 L M60B40 V8 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
1990–1993 BMW M5 - 3.6 L S38B36 I6, 315 PS (232 kW; 311 hp)
1994–1996 BMW M5 - 3.8 L S38B38 I6, 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp)

E39 (1995–2003)

What to look out for:

• Extended VANOS noise/rattle after start-up

• Propshaft couplings/ centre bearing

• Bushings

• FSH, or when last serviced and by who

• Clutch

• Brake Discs warped/ damaged

• Electrics

• Oil leaks around the engine bay (tappet cover weeping) and diff

• Gearbox

• Any smoke coming from the exhaust

• Oil levels

• Chips on the windscreen, fog lights and headlights

• Tire kit in the boot (for M5's) and spare wheel for other models

• Power steering hose leaks

• Missing splash covers

Model variations:

1996–2000 520i - 2.0 L M52B20 I6, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2000–2003 520i - 2.2 L M54B22 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
1996–2000 523i - 2.5 L M52B25 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2000–2003 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 141 kW (192 PS; 189 hp)
1996–1999 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
1999–2000 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 TU I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
2000–2003 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 172 kW (234 PS; 231 hp)
1996–2003 535i - 3.5 L M62B35 V8, 183 kW (249 PS; 245 hp)
1996–1998 540i - 4.4 L M62B44 V8, 213 kW (290 PS; 286 hp)
1998–2003 540i - 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8, 216 kW (294 PS; 290 hp)
1998–2003 M5 - 4.9 L S62 V8, 298 kW (405 PS; 400 hp)
2000–2003 520d - 2.0 L M47D20 diesel I4 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp)
2000–2003 525d - 2.5 L M57D25 diesel I6 122 kW (166 PS; 164 hp)
1997–2000 525td - 2.5 L M51D25TU UL diesel I6 85 kW (116 PS; 114 hp)
1996–2000 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25TU OL diesel I6 105 kW (143 PS; 141 hp)
1998–2000 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 135 kW (184 PS; 181 hp)
2000–2003 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp)

E60 (2003–2010)

What to look out for:

After 150000km sealing sleeve on the steptronic gearbox and gearbox oil pan gasket may need replacing If you have any gearbox oil leaks

A grinding noise after start up that goes away after a wile is most proberbly the steering pump on its way out

Model variations:

2005–2006 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2006–2007 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 120 kW (163 PS; 161 hp)
2007- 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 130.5 kW (177 PS; 175 hp)
2003–2005 520i - 2.2 L (2171 cc) I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2007- 520i - 2.0 L (1995 cc) I4, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2004–2007 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 130 kW (177 PS; 174 hp)
2007- 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 140 kW (190 PS; 188 hp)
2004–2007 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2007- 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2996 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2004–2007 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 190 kW (258 PS; 255 hp)
2007- 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp)
2004–2007 530d/xd - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 175 kW (238 PS; 235 hp) and 500 N·m (370 ft·lbf)
2004- 535d - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) and 413 ft·lbf (560 N·m) (compression ratio: 16.5:1)
2006- M5 - 5.0 L S85 V10, 373 kW (507 PS; 500 hp)

F10 (2010- present)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

?




Recommended reading:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E12)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E28)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E34)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(F10)
www.realoem.com

Please add your list of things to look out for or anything I've missed Will edit this post as I go along. The question marks need to be filled in :=):

Added my experiance to e60

 

[maximus]

Thought this might be a good sticky since I've seen a few threads asking what to look out for, what models are available etc etc
Would be a awesome to have consolidated info for all the BMW models, all in the relevant threads

Naturally, this will be a constant work in progress and I'll also need feedback on specific models as my knowledge is mostly limited to the E39 series. Would just be nice to refer to this This will be focused on the SA market more than anything else.

E12 (1972 - 1981)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

1974 518 - 1.8 L M118 I4
1976 518 - 1.8 L M42 I4
1980 518 - 1.8 L M10B18 I4
1972 520 - 2.0 L M17 I4, 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS)
1972 520i - 2.0 L M64 fuel-injected I4, 125 hp (93 kW; 127 PS)
1977 520 - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 hp
1973 525 - 2.5 L I6
1975 528i - 2.8 L I6
1975 530i - 3.0 L I6, 176 hp (131 kW; 178 PS)
1976 530 Motorsport Limited Edition - 3.0 L I6, 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS)
1979 M535i - 3.5 L I6, 218 hp (163 kW; 221 PS)

E28 (1982–1988)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

518/518i- 1.8 L M10B18
520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6
524d - 2.4 L M21 diesel I6
524td - 2.4 L M21 turbodiesel I6
525i - 2.5 L M30B25 I6
525e - 2.7 L M20B27 I6
528i - 2.8 L M30B28 I6 first 177 hp 1978 after 1979 184 hp
530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6
535i/M535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6
M5 - M88 I6, 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
High-performance 5 Series - 24-valve DOHC, I6, six throttle bodies, Bosch Motronic integrated fuel injection. At its launch in 1984, the European specification E28 M5 was the fastest production sedan in the world.

E34 (1988–1996)

What to look out for:
- Infamous brake shudder at around 80KM/H
- Suspension (Sway bar links, control arms + bushes)
- Cooling system especially WATER PUMP and fan clutch!
- Any AUTOMATIC ; check for hesitation, jolts, smooth shifts
- Cancer! a.k.a rust, especially on the lower door trims
- Spare tire, tools, jack and that wedge-thingy Bluebiggrin
- The OBC
- Rear roller sun blind

-Preferably avoid earlier models with M20-based engines since they're not too fuel efficient compared to M50 engines and
ultimately the single VANOS after 1993 Thinking

-Best overall E34? me thinks the 535i with the M30 engine... but I still love my revving M50B25 non-vanos Bluebiggrin

Model variations:

1989–1994 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M40B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1994–1996 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M43B18 I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp)
1995–1996 BMW 518g (CNG) Touring - 1.8 L M43B18 I4
1987–1990 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp)
1987–1990 BMW 520i ECE - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) higher compression than non ECE
1990–1996 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M50B20 I6 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)
1988–1991 BMW 524td - 2.4 L M21 I6 diesel
1993–1995 BMW 525td - 2.5 L M51D25 UL I6 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) diesel
1991–1995 BMW 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25 OL I6 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) diesel
1987–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp)
1990–1996 BMW 525iX - 2.5 L M50B25 I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) Very rare
1988–1990 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6 184 PS (135 kW; 181 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M60B30 V8 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp)
1987–1993 BMW 535i - 3.4 L M30B35 I6 211 PS (155 kW; 208 hp)
1992–1996 BMW 540i - 4.0 L M60B40 V8 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp)
1990–1993 BMW M5 - 3.6 L S38B36 I6, 315 PS (232 kW; 311 hp)
1994–1996 BMW M5 - 3.8 L S38B38 I6, 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp)

E39 (1995–2003)

What to look out for:

• Extended VANOS noise/rattle after start-up

• Propshaft couplings/ centre bearing

• Bushings

• FSH, or when last serviced and by who

• Clutch

• Brake Discs warped/ damaged

• Electrics

• Oil leaks around the engine bay (tappet cover weeping) and diff

• Gearbox

• Any smoke coming from the exhaust

• Oil levels

• Chips on the windscreen, fog lights and headlights

• Tire kit in the boot (for M5's) and spare wheel for other models

• Power steering hose leaks

• Missing splash covers

Model variations:

1996–2000 520i - 2.0 L M52B20 I6, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2000–2003 520i - 2.2 L M54B22 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
1996–2000 523i - 2.5 L M52B25 I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2000–2003 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 141 kW (192 PS; 189 hp)
1996–1999 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
1999–2000 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 TU I6, 144 kW (196 PS; 193 hp)
2000–2003 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 172 kW (234 PS; 231 hp)
1996–2003 535i - 3.5 L M62B35 V8, 183 kW (249 PS; 245 hp)
1996–1998 540i - 4.4 L M62B44 V8, 213 kW (290 PS; 286 hp)
1998–2003 540i - 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8, 216 kW (294 PS; 290 hp)
1998–2003 M5 - 4.9 L S62 V8, 298 kW (405 PS; 400 hp)
2000–2003 520d - 2.0 L M47D20 diesel I4 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp)
2000–2003 525d - 2.5 L M57D25 diesel I6 122 kW (166 PS; 164 hp)
1997–2000 525td - 2.5 L M51D25TU UL diesel I6 85 kW (116 PS; 114 hp)
1996–2000 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25TU OL diesel I6 105 kW (143 PS; 141 hp)
1998–2000 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 135 kW (184 PS; 181 hp)
2000–2003 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 diesel I6 142 kW (193 PS; 190 hp)

E60 (2003–2010)

What to look out for:

After 150000km sealing sleeve on the steptronic gearbox and gearbox oil pan gasket may need replacing If you have any gearbox oil leaks

A grinding noise after start up that goes away after a wile is most proberbly the steering pump on its way out

Model variations:

2005–2006 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp)
2006–2007 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 120 kW (163 PS; 161 hp)
2007- 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) diesel I4, 130.5 kW (177 PS; 175 hp)
2003–2005 520i - 2.2 L (2171 cc) I6, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2007- 520i - 2.0 L (1995 cc) I4, 125 kW (170 PS; 168 hp)
2004–2007 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 130 kW (177 PS; 174 hp)
2007- 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 140 kW (190 PS; 188 hp)
2004–2007 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2007- 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2996 cc) I6, 160 kW (218 PS; 215 hp)
2004–2007 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 190 kW (258 PS; 255 hp)
2007- 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp)
2004–2007 530d/xd - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 175 kW (238 PS; 235 hp) and 500 N·m (370 ft·lbf)
2004- 535d - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) and 413 ft·lbf (560 N·m) (compression ratio: 16.5:1)
2006- M5 - 5.0 L S85 V10, 373 kW (507 PS; 500 hp)

F10 (2010- present)

What to look out for:

?

Model variations:

?




Recommended reading:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E12)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E28)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E34)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E60)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(F10)
www.realoem.com

Please add your list of things to look out for or anything I've missed Will edit this post as I go along. The question marks need to be filled in :=):

 

[Nic_s]

Best would be to just reply normally cos if everyone adds to the quote, it will become difficult to see what was added later on. So just add a normal reply and Jeff or a Mod will edit the original post. :thumb:

 

[jeff_denning]

Thanks for the feedback gents, edited the OP
Should add that a purchase of an E34 is strictly to join the mafia.... but that might scare off a few potential buyers :rollsmile:

@Raybimmer: Fair shout, to be honest - the models available from taken from the non-US market off Wiki...
Can definitely run through the list and see what was made available here - might take some time though.

 

[Sith]

Jeff, great idea. For E12 info. look on Ulli's site www.e12.de .

What I can tell you to look out for on E12s is:

Rust, everywhere.
Cooling system must have had regular care.
Cracked heads are common.
Sun cracked dashboards.
Push-button controls break easily.
Non-returning indicator stalk.
Leaking heater valve drips into passenger footwell carpet.
Various interior trim will be buggered by now, unless well looked after.
Chrome bumpers available from BMW if you sell your home, so check for dents.
Bonnet release cable fails.
Trunk gasket perishes, causing leaks into trunk and...rust again.
Cracked and fogged up lamps and lenses.
All suspension components.
Besides overheating, the engines are tough, as are the gearboxes and diffs.

Oh hell, at this age, you have to check everything, but the above are some of the more common ones I can think of, and have experienced on various E12s I have owned.

On the E60s, the interior trim is not very hard wearing.

 

[jeff_denning]

Jeff, great idea. For E12 info. look on Ulli's site www.e12.de .

What I can tell you to look out for on E12s is:

Rust, everywhere.
Cooling system must have had regular care.
Cracked heads are common.
Sun cracked dashboards.
Push-button controls break easily.
Non-returning indicator stalk.
Leaking heater valve drips into passenger footwell carpet.
Various interior trim will be buggered by now, unless well looked after.
Chrome bumpers available from BMW if you sell your home, so check for dents.
Bonnet release cable fails.
Trunk gasket perishes, causing leaks into trunk and...rust again.
Cracked and fogged up lamps and lenses.
All suspension components.
Besides overheating, the engines are tough, as are the gearboxes and diffs.

Oh hell, at this age, you have to check everything, but the above are some of the more common ones I can think of, and have experienced on various E12s I have owned.

On the E60s, the interior trim is not very hard wearing.

:thumbs:
Thanks dude!! Was hoping you'd jump in here and throw in some info about the awesome that is E12

Edited original post.

 

[Raybimmer]

Looking at the e12 list ......wow what is not a problem area ? :roflol:

 

[Sith]

Very little at their age, unless you find a minter.:rollsmile:

BTW, Jeff, the early 4 cylinder carb cars had twin Stromberg carbs, which are an absolute bastard to tune. With age, most have been replaced with single Webbers.

 

[Uber Soldat]

Here be my 2c for the E34s, obviously :rollsmile:

Adding to what Max has mentioned.

Rust:
Check below the rear window

Models to avoid:
M50 520s. They're somewhat underpowered. Great once you're up to speed, though getting there is a bit irritating.

Best overall E34?:
'95 525i with vanos motor would be the best one to get if you're worried about fuel consumption and power. There isn't a huge power gap between it, the 530i and 535i. Obviously 540/M5s are the best though...:rollsmile:

540 specific:

540's came from factory with a plastic impeller on the waterpump, these do fail, make sure to replace with one that has a metal impeller

PCV plate that sits on the back of the intake manifold. If you hear a hissing noise from that area, it's probably dead. Can cause crappy idle etc.

If the gearbox hesitates and only jumps into gear when the accelerator is pressed (1st or reverse), have the valve body redone. The plastic check balls wear down over time and can get stuck. Even better, replace with manual gearbox.

I'll add more as I think of them.

 

[Mr Occo]

nice!

:thumbs::thumbs:

 

[Raybimmer]

Traction control not working on e34 540i M :rollsmile:

 

[ecKARd]

I see no 545i under the E60. :fencelook: