BMW 5-Series Sedans

sdg380 · April 2003

Thanks for feedback guys, they are indeed Touring Contacts, Reiz, seem decent enough to me, and pretty good year round. Unfortunately, our roads around here get pretty chewed up between the salt and temperature swings in the winter (good for car finishes, too!), so touring tires and non-sport suspension make sense.

JB, still don't get that wallet key thing, I don't think it has any battery, but I know it could have some kind of chip (or something) that could be programmed/read from the ignition. Maybe it has an embedded code unique to your car for first use, then it's reprogrammed(?) Guess that would (supposedly) require a visit to the dealer to replicate.

dabimmer · April 2003

Interesting observations and, indeed, I agree with everything you say especially that the E60 will be a new car year. I would stay away from the first year also. Good thinking.

jb_shin · April 2003

The key's battery is actually charged when you insert it into the ignition. There is an instruction on initializing a new key to your car at www.bmwtips.com.

pap5 · April 2003

Just got back from extended time away, and read about your ordeal. What a bummer - the photos border on the grotesque! As I have a lot of catching up to do, I don't know how far down the road you've gotten toward a resolution, but I'm so sorry this happened to you!

jjohnjohn · April 2003

does anyone know why my rear right tail light indicator light is on? all my lights are working, but the light is still on? can anyone advise. thanks

div2 · May 2003

The following is my earlier post concerning this somewhat common problem. You might also want to check the high mounted brake lamp. When it fails it is indicated by the right brake light warning. In any event read on to see how I cured the problem once and for all:

<My 1997 528iA had similar problems with bulbs. I finally found a solution that worked. First off, you need to understand how the bulb monitoring system works. In essence it looks for high resistance in the tested circuit. The system is so sensitive that a bulb that is about to fail may trigger the light, as will small amounts of corrosion on the bulb and/or socket.
Now for the fix: First, always use quality European silver base bulbs of the correct size and wattage(check the owners manual if you aren't sure). The dealer should stock the proper bulbs but you can also find the excellent Sylvania Osram bulbs at AutoZone. While you are there pick up a package of Bulb Grease. Next, remove all the bulbs and clean their bases and sockets with a quality electrical contact cleaner that is SAFE FOR PLASTIC. I use a product from the German company Wurth but Radio Shack should have something similar. After all the bulbs and sockets are clean wait a few minutes to let all traces of the cleaner evaporate. Finally, apply a thin coating of bulb grease to the base of each bulb and button everything back up. The contact cleaner should have removed any corrosion and the dielectric grease will prevent further corrosion. I hope this helps.>

dabimmer · May 2003

Did you find out what was causing the problem? No one responded to your post, I have never heard of anything like that. Almost sounds like something loose in the front suspension, certainly needing attention. Hope it is all attended to. Is your trip to SF still on, didn't hear anymore. I know you said it would be like in June or July, still a ways off.

sdg380 · May 2003

JB, I know that "regular" keys have a battery that's charged when inserted in ignition (neat feature, heh?), but how about that little palstic wallet "emergency" key. If the security system is busy changing codes all the time, how does the wallet key, which is rarely used, function? Some kind of "emergency" code or what? I guess it's no big deal, but I'm only wondering if all the security features are bypassed by the use of such a key. Maybe I better watch all of the video that came with the car!

jb_shin · May 2003

Ahh, you got me there. I am not sure how that little one works. I guess we'll have to dig around a little.

billbrox · May 2003

Bienvenudos Mukman.....got the same ride myself only 2 months ago, only difference is mine is now broken in....you are in for a treat!
-Billbrox

div2 · May 2003

Here's how the EWS system works: Each ECU is programmed to accept a fixed number of keys-6 to 10, if I recall correctly. All of the keys have chips which have been programmed with their own individual code. The first time one of the keys is used, the EWS system recognizes the initial code and then re programs that specific key. Thus, even if you've never used the plastic wallet key the EWS will accept it. By the way, my shop was doing a PPI on a E34 Touring I was considering and when we put it on the lift we found the wallet key stuck under the front valence with a strip of velcro. When I brought the car back to the dealer I gave them the key; they hadn't noticed it was there. Anyone could have driven the 5er off the lot with no problem whatsoever...

bmwguru · May 2003

It sounds like the control arms or thrust rods or possibly the bushings for either. It is common for the control arms/bushings or thrust rods/bushings to wear out over time. If that happens, you get a shake while braking and sometimes at speed. My best guess is the control arm bushings.

cmr530i · May 2003

I just dropped my car off at the dealer after work (4pm) and so far I haven't heard a word. I am assuming they won't look at it until tomorrow. The service rep. could not recall hearing of a problem of this nature before. I'll let you know what they find. Thank you for responding.

dabimmer The trip to SF is still on. We will go the last week of August. My 9th grade son is taking a summer school class so my choice of months is limited. I look forward to the trip on a daily basis however! Thanks for asking.

cmr530i · May 2003

I forgot to ask you something. You said it is common for the control arms/bushings or thrust rods/bushings to wear out over time. What span of time are you talking about? Would 2 years (2001 model) be sufficient?

bmwguru · May 2003

Two years is not common. But, it really depends on the mileage and road conditions.

crete · May 2003

I'm looking to buy the 540iA before end of production. A couple of questions..
-- When will dealers stop taking orders for 540?
-- In the brochure they have Steel Blue for a color but on the website it was taken off, did they discontinue the steel blue color production or can you still order one?
-- And since I want the M Sport package it seems that only comes in limited colors as well.
I'm looking at trading in my 2002 Infiniti QX4 (gas guzzler, but rides nice) and have driven the 530 awhile ago but want the bigger engine of the 540. Was hoping to still place an order end of May for the 540.

jb_shin · May 2003

If you can find a dealer with an allocation that has not been sold, and not built, that would be your best bet. Officially, new orders for E39 models are no longer taken as of 4/7, at least in Germany. The production is to cease in June, so you better hurry.

snowman6 · May 2003

I'm looking at a 2001 540i and have 2 brief techical questions I hope someone an help me with. The car comes with the integrated phone but the Star Tac phone itself is missing. Will this system hook up with my existing celluar phone or am I required to purchase a new star tac phone?? The power cord is still there but teh connection does not match my current cellular phone

Second question - the car comes with navagation but no CD (though it is wired for a CD changer). Does anybody know whether I can get a CD changer aftermarket or do I need to work through a BMW dealer??

Thanks very much

bmwguru · May 2003

You would have to replace the phone with a BMW phone. The phones are sold by region and carrier. Some else has stated the the phone you need is no longer available. Check with the dealer. As far as the CD player goes you need to search the web to get the best price. There are dealers that sell them well below retail. I don't know of an aftermarket player that will work. Check the specialty magazines dedicated to BMW to find the best price on the CD player.

snowman6 · May 2003

thank you.

cmr530i · May 2003

Well, I got my 530 back today and the dealer could not find anything wrong with it. They said they ran every test they could, but could not replicate the shaking I had experienced. Everything looked fine. I mentioned about the bushings etc., but all checked out OK. I'll just continue to monitor the car and document any further vibrations. The second service interval will be coming up soon, so I will also mention my experiences then. Anyway, it sure is great the have my 5 back! A little absence makes the heart grow even more fonder! And that is hard to do as I love my 5! Hope all is well with your bimmers.

dabimmer · May 2003

Whew ! That's a load off your mind I bet. I'm glad everything checked out, it sure seemed like it was "something" in the front end or maybe the brakes. You are wise to continue to monitor the braking and you do have the incident documented now. Continued "good"
luck with the 5. Keep us posted.

riez · May 2003

The June 2003 issue of Motor Trend has a small, half-page "First Test" of the MY2003 540ia Sport. Sub-titled "One last blast". I concur with them that "The Sport package--cheap at $4100--is the key to making the 540i a legitimate, less costly alternative to the M5." They "still marvel at the balance, poise, and performance this combination is capable of" and praise the "steering and braking inputs that communicate what the car's up to at all times." They end by saying "the last of these 5 Series 'oldies' is worthy of your consideration." End is nice compliment to the beginning of the article where they point out the then-new E39 was the 1997 MT Import Car of the Year.

A truly great car for 7 consecutive model years!

shipo · May 2003

"A truly great car for 7 consecutive model years!"

That and eight consecutive years in production. Not too shabby. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

crete · May 2003

I went on a test drive today in a 540iA with the M Sport and premimum sound package, Navi, and a few other options. WOW! What a great ride I had. After debating for months about buying and realizing there won't be many left soon, I finalized a deal. Although I couldn't find the color combo I wanted, I figured it is more important for me to get the right car. I got the Titanium Silver with black leather. The dealer just got the car in as an additional allotment and it has just 16 miles on it still with the factory plastic covers on the seats. I'll be picking it up Monday and the dealer threw in the 6-CD changer at no charge.

Questions:
Which CD changer is better the trunk mounted or glove box mounted?
I had to pay a $1000. gas guzzler tax, ithought that was phase out a few months ago?

Then dealer was going to sell me an extended warranty for the tires and wheels ($300.00) as apparently they are not covered under the 48/50,000. Has anyone had a problem with the factory tires. I think they are Dunlop Sports.

bmwguru · May 2003

Avoid the Nakamichi in-dash cd player at all costs. We had nothing but problems with them. There isn't a lot if any difference in sound quality between the two and you will have room in your dash for useful stuff.

riez · May 2003

crete... Congrats. You'll love it.

1. The Luxury Tax was phased out. But the Gas Guzzler Tax is still in effect. (This is one small thing in favor of CPO or used cars. I didn't have to pay the gas guzzler tax when I bought my CPO 540i6.)

2. Personally, I wouldn't get any $300 tire/wheel "warranty". Tires are a normal wear item. Maintaining the wheels isn't too difficult. The Sport Pkg's tires won't last 50,000 miles. You'll be lucky to have 'em last 25,000. Use 'em hard and you might only get 20,000 or less. But that is the nature of the beast with high performance summer (3-season tires). Some specific thoughts on the warranty: First, can't say I've ever heard of such a thing. Second, seems expensive for what you might get. Third, you should read the fine print and make sure you know exactly what it covers (esp. the exclusions and limitations). Fourth, who is the company standing behind the warranty? Sounds like some 3rd party warranty outfit. (I don't really like or trust any 3rd party warranty outfits.) Fifth, if you get snow, you'll need a set of dedicated snow tires (and many people get a set of cheap wheels with their winter tires). You'll have to run those at least 2-3 months of the year. Doubt they'll be covered under this warranty.

3. My '98 540i6 has the 6-disc trunk changer. I much prefer being able to change the discs quickly and easily. I'd take a single in-dash over any 6-disc trunk or glovebox unit. Not sure the glovebox units are any easier, since (unless you have a passenger with you) you have to change discs when stopped just like you do with the trunk-mounted units. At least the trunk-mounted unit doesn't eat up much space. And it lets you keep the glove box for storage. The E39 540i isn't the best on interior storage space, so having the glove box for storage can be nice.

shipo · May 2003

It looks like my quest to talk my wife into a 525iT 5-Speed for her next car has failed. :-( Instead, she is opting for a new Caravan, which she is ordering this afternoon. At least the "Rear seat DVD video system" should make long drives with the kids much easier. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

joatmon · May 2003

Shipo,

My wife tried a 530i, a 525iT, and then the X5. She just smiled when she drove the X5. She really liked the higher seating position, partly because she is 5'2". It was just a matter of picking the options at that point.

I like to drive the X5. It's much more roomy and luxurious compared to my 530i. I'm actually happy about the X5 for my wife because hauling 2 children around in a 530i is a LOT harder than in the X5. Just where do you put 2 juice/milk cups in a 530i?

Just a thought,

Jack

dzuba · May 2003

Curious - I came across a great CPO 2002 530, but it does not have the Premium Package, which I think I really want.

Anyone out there not have the PP, or have it and think they could live with w/o it.

This car does have the moonroof - so I would be losing the Rain Sensing Wipers, Dimming Rearview mirror, wood trim, and the on board computer.

Most of me thinks for that kind of $$$ - I should get what I want, but...........

joatmon · May 2003

dzuba,

You didn't mention leather. That's the other component of PP. The RS Wipers are nice, but not a must have. The AD mirrors are nice, but again, not a must have. The wood trim doesn't do a lot for me. I prefer the "light poplar" wood found in some other BMWs. BTW, you do get the standard computer, missing a few functions from the PP computer. I could really do without the upgraded computer. So, if it has the right engine, trans, int. & ext. colors, sport vs. standard suspension of your choice, I'd go for it.

Just MHO,

Jack

weberamg · May 2003

Hi,

I'm in the market for a 1998-2001 540i 6spd or auto with sport. Is there a source that explains the differences in the model years between these cars? Such as: which colors were available with the sport package, which wheel style/size, other important options, thinks to look for our look out for, etc.

Thanks,

John W.

riez · May 2003

weberamg... Check out various web sources like Edmunds, BMW NA, etc. Also, stop by your local BMW dealer and ask to see their voluminous literature. They should have copies of the material they got back in those model years that detailed all the options, colors, etc. They might also have some old full-color sales brochures for most recent couple MYs.

Check out BMW NA's CPO web site to see what specific CPO 540i are in your area available for sale now. Usually lists option package, options, colors, etc.

Can be a bit hard to find used 540i6, though they are out there. I went 600 miles (one way) to find my CPO '98 540i6 in 11/01. I do seem to see a lot of CPO 540ia Sport. Believe my local BMW dealer, Markel BMW (Omaha, Nebraska), currently has 2 CPO 540ia Sport. (Markel, like other BMW dealers, lists these on the BMW NA CPO locator web site.)

You won't go wrong with any E39 5 Series!

riez · May 2003

dzuba... What all specific options and/or option packages does it have? Sport Pkg? Cold Weather Pkg? There used to be a Convenience Pkg (which might also have required the Prem Pkg). Also, the original buyer might have ordered some stand alone options. Thinking both sunroof and leather could be ordered stand alone. Forget what all else could, too.

Make sure the dealer tells you every specific option this particular car has. Then also check it out to ensure they are all there.

shipo · May 2003

If I remember correctly, back in 2002, you needed to opt for the Leather Seats (either individually or as part of the PP) before you could order the SP.

Best Regards,
Shipo

fjk57702 · May 2003

The bmw website is:
http://www.bmwusa.com/
Checking Californa, there seem to be several 540i manuals. Colors/options vary. Prices are ~40,000 and mileage is ~40,000.

dzuba · May 2003

Guys,

The car is an 02 - CPO w/9K miles on it!
Sport Package
Cold Weather Package
Xenon
Power Moonroof
Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror
CPO - with new rear tires
Black/Black which looks awesome, especially with the black interior trim (versus the wood IMO)
6 CD BWM Changer in the trunk
Headlight washers!!
They did not say leather - but it sure looked and felt like it - how good/bad is the leatherette?
Steptronic

So w/o the PP - all I am losing is the Rain sensing wipers,and leather! And a few readings on the Upgraded Computer.

The car has exactly what I am looking for except the PP - and I think it has most of that - except maybe the leather! I have a call into the dealer now to let me know leather vs. leatherette!

Thoughts - I can get it for 40-41,500.
We are still negotiating

joatmon · May 2003

It sounds good. Sport Pack requires leather, so that's good news, althought it's possible to do "special" orders.

A new 530i, 5 spd, SP, PP, Ze stickers at 46,895. You may be able to pick pick one up for 44,000 or so. Lease rates are great at the moment, so you should get to under $550 a month for 15k / year with no down. Add some extra security deposits and you're under $500 a month.

There are still some new 530i, 5spd, PP, SP out there. But, they're getting scarce.

Hope this helps,

Jack

shipo · May 2003

I checked my notes from last year when I ordered my car, and they also indicate that you MUST have leather ordered before you can order the Sport Package. As such, I am betting that the odds are > 90% that the car you are looking at is leather.

Best Regards,
Shipo

dzuba · May 2003

As we are a bit off on price. I am near TMV and the dealer at 1K more - the dealer is telling me that Edmunds TMV does not include the BMW CPO program in it's price.

Any thoughts - as I have come this far I figure I have way more than 1k of my time invested so I should just buy it, but...........

pat · May 2003

Check with the folks hanging out in Real-World Trade-In Values, a discussion over on our Smart Shopper board. They are into helping folks figure out realistic prices for used vehicles whether they are actual "trade-ins" or not.

Good luck!

riez · May 2003

dzuba.. Most sources (e.g., Roundel (BMW CCA) and Bimmer) have discussed fact you'll pay more for CPO. CPO isn't free. And many used BMWs are not CPO. Sometimes BMW dealers will even offer the same car priced used vs CPO. (Which is against the CPO rules.) Figure on average that you'll spend around $1,000 (plus or minus $500) for CPO. But all things are negotiable.

Seems like a lot of options. With all that the dealers usually have Premium Pkg. Can't imagine that it didn't come with Sport-Premium Pkg. There is such a combination package. Are you sure it didn't? Ask the dealer if they have electronic or hardcopy access to the original window sticker.

pen101 · May 2003

I wrote in a few months ago that the clutch went out on my new 2002 530i after just 14K miles. BMW insisted that the clutch failure was due to user abuse and refused to pay for it under warranty.

I wrote a friendly but stern letter to Tom Purves, Vice President and CEO of BMWNA expressing my displeasure with their refusal to treat the clutch failure as a warrenty item. I gave them until May 5 to contact me and satisfactorily resolve this matter otherwise I was going to elevate it to a legal forum.

Today I got a call from a BMWNA representative requesting more time. I gave them one additional week. In the mean time, I had an independant mechanic look over the old clutch parts which I had kept. The mechanic concluded and was willing to put in writing that the clutch failure was definitely not the result of user abuse, but was indeed the result of a defect.

This reflects very badly on BMW. Customer satisfaction should be a high priority to any car company. This episode has tarnished my thinking towards the company and will definitely influence my future purchase (lease) of a replacement car when my current lease is up.

It is too bad because outside of this issue, I have had an excellent experience with the car. I love to drive it and I feel that it provides the best driving experience of any car in that price range. I really hope that this matter will be resolved to my satisfaction.

wabends · May 2003

I have to make a choice soon between two offers on a 2003 530i and I need suggestions from 5'er afficianados.

Deal A: PP, AT, CWP and Ze for $44,300.

Deal B: PP, AT, CWP, Ze with heated steering wheel for $44,500 (and will accept trade in).

Both cars are Toledo blue metallic. This is a buy (not lease) and intend to keep the car for about 7 years.

Also considering getting trunk mounted CD Changer, but dealer is asking for $1K but I found one at Eurobuyer.com for $425 (claims it is genuine BMW part). Has anyone out there bought from this source? If so, please share your experience.

Any suggestions would be helpful and thanks in advance

dzuba · May 2003

Actually tonight - 6:00 I will be picking up my 02 530 - Black/Black with 10K miles on it! Step-Sport-CWP -Leather - Xenon - "almost PP", new Tires in the rear, 6-CD changer, and CPO which is huge for me as this car will be driven.

I would pick it up this morning but I have three appointments - sometimes sales is rough!! I figure it has been a 2 year wait - whats another 12 hours.

Stay tuned!!! Did I sleep last night - not much!

snagiel · May 2003

Well done. Perseverence--and the whiff of a lawsuit--usually pays off when dealing with a large corporation's intransigence.

snagiel · May 2003

Congratulations. Enjoy!

riez · May 2003

wabends... Not sure what you mean when you say one dealer: "and will accept trade in". The other won't won't? Usually a dealer will at least make you an offer. If they really don't want it, they just lowball you badly. Is the 2nd dealer making a decent offer (say close to wholesale)?

As for CD player, you might look thru latest issues of Roundel (BMW CCA) and Bimmer magazines. One big, established parts, esp. CD, advertiser is Pacific BMW (800-909-PARTS or www.PacificBMW.com). For example, Pacific is selling the NAKAHICHI glovebox CD changer for $392.99 and "CD Changer from 96" for $392.99. Both with free shipping. Another source is Passport BMW (888-334-4383 or www.passportbmw.com). Passport is selling "6 Disc CD Changer '96 and Newer" for $379.00. Plus shipping.

joatmon · May 2003

David,

Way to go! Be safe and have fun. In a 530, you can do both.

Jack

fjk57702 · May 2003

From the buyer's point of view (in my opinion), what CPO gets you is 6 years/100,000 miles of warranty. The basic warranty is 4 years/50,000 miles, so the dealer probably must pay for the extra 2 years/50,000 miles. In addition, the dealer must check the car over and provide paper work to the factory (BMW) that the car qualifies as a CPO. If the dealer knows that the car qualifies as a CPO, but has not completed the "CPO process", then he could offer the car without the additional warranty for less money.

I would guess that the extra warranty coverage is available to new BMW buyers before the standard warranty expires.

BMW 5-Series Sedans

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