BMW 5-Series Sedans

nyccarguy · March 2002

perceive the stick shift as evil...if they only knew;)

ek5 · March 2002

We are very close to purchasing a 530i with PP, Upgraded Stereo and Steptronic. Have heard here (post #2379) that BMW has had problems with the life of auto trans in the 1990s. Does anyone know if there have been any problems with steptronic? In Cars.com article on 2001 525, it says that the shifter is licensed from Porsche. And in Nov. 2001 Consumer Reports reviewing 530i it says the steptronic is made by General Motors. Have not test driven the 5-speed manual yet, but will do so this weekend. Both my husband and I drive a stick, but thought we'd like to try the auto this time. Any thoughts??

Also, how has the reliability of BMW been overall? I know it's up there, but not as good as Lexus, Acura?? Any major problems?

And finally, how can I get a subscription to Roundel (is this a BMW mag?)

Thanks to all you BMW Gods of Knowledge...

Shipo...any experience with Prestige or DiFeo BMW? We will be going to Park Ave. this weekend. Unfortunately, don't have the energy to do an ED purchase, but thanks for all the posted info.

bjrich · March 2002

What a forum they have going in the new G35.
Very anxious to see the Car Mag; Comparisons on them, sure to come! Love these cars. Bob

john01 · March 2002

Since my wife is not very good with manual, we thought about getting the auto. However, while I have not personally spoke to anyone who actually had a problem with their automatic transmissions, I heard about quite a few people who did have problems. Most everyone ended up with rebuilt or new transmission. On the other hand, I have also heard of people who have well over 100,000 miles on their automatic 5 series with no apparent problems. It may be possible that there just aren't enough E39s (the current 5 series) with high mileage to have a reliable statistic. Whatever the case is, many (including me) prefer the manual over the auto. The transmissions are built by ZF and GM in France, but these are not the same boxes that go in our Chevys and Pontiacs.

The reliability seems to be above average, but it is not Lexus nor Acura. Personally I have had more problems with my Integra than I would have liked. It seems most of the problems are the little things that are more annoying than serious. I do expect it to cost more than the average import sedans, however and budgeted accordingly.

As for Roundel, it is a BMW CCA magazine and you can sign up at their web site, www.bmwcca.org. The membership also entitles you to discounts on BMW parts from participating dealers. If you have been a member for more than a year, you can also receive cash rebate of $1,000 on 5 series.

nyccarguy · March 2002

most everyone on this board will tell you that if you can both drive stick, then get the stick, you'll be glad you did.

zuba · March 2002

I agree, I thought I was sold on the automatic and thought Steptronic was cool, but not after driving the stick! Awesome response. Now I just need to find 5-7 K more to jump from the 528 to 530!! And I also jumped to the Sport Package once I drove it!

ack4us · March 2002

Help...I am about to get myself into a 540i w/ Sport Pkg, Nav, Cold Weather and Prem Sound. MSRP is $60,320 (incl gas guzzler tax). I am told they will take $1200 off sticker, and with a 59% residual and a MF of .0021 puts me at $899 (36 mos/45Kmi) inc tax. I am reading about dealers who will do $1500 from Invoice. Is the 540 less negotiable? I am also interested in the "paydown" of the MF by using multiple security deposits, but conventional wisdom says to use that money and invest it where your return over 3 years would be greater than the savings of a couple of points on interest charges...Any thoughts

shipo · March 2002

As it turns out, I do have experience with Prestige, and I like them very much. My current 1999 328i was leased from them and that sales process was very pleasant. The service provided by them has been quite satisfactory as well, even though that has only amounted to the 15K and the 30K services calls.

So why am I not leasing my 530i from them? Quite simply, my new salesman at Prestige seemed unwilling to deal, he presented me with a price for the car optioned as I requested at essentially ED MSRP. When I questioned him (telling him the type of prices that I have seen on the internet), he simply told me that there was no way he could even get close. Admittedly, I never gave him a "$1,500 over ED invoice, take it or leave it offer" (and I feel a little guilty about that), however, I did give him the opportunity to swing the bat before I went elsewhere.

Since I do not like playing games, I decided that the first local dealer that I called that accepted my offer would get my business. The first dealership I called was Park Avenue, they accepted, and the rest is history.

Best Regards,
Shipo

bn_shopn · March 2002

Got a deal on the table for a 530 w/ auto, PP, CW, lumbar, Xenon

Invoice : 42,285
Dealer offers: 44,285
I counter w/ 43, 785

after various discussions here's where I am:

my last offer: 44,185 (but this now includes add'n year maint and MACO)
Their counter was 44,485 (including add'n year maint and MACO)

my guess is they wont' move more. Question, should I take or not? My counter could be
44,485 (includes add'n year maint, 2 free future oil changes, BMW pedal car (for kid!!) Anything else I could ask for?

Thoughts?

bocata · March 2002

> Is there a reason for the long period till
> anticipated delivery of your ED530i?

My choice: it's the first Monday after school is out. It could be done in 8-10 weeks if you take the first available date. There does not seem to be too much of a backlog on ED.

-Bob D.

cmr530i · March 2002

I purchased my 530 at Pacific BMW in Glendale. Ask for Keith Kruser. Other dealer that was very close to my price was Long Beach BMW. Good luck. Let me know what you get quoted and what options you want.

vishnu11 · March 2002

I am doing a EuroDel this month and finished the paperwork with BMWFS last month for the full price of the car.

Yesterday I got a message from the dealer saying that the payment was "deficient" and that the car will not be registered until the deficiency was made up. I discovered that the dealer screwed up on the loan papers and put a price about $1500+ less than what was agreed. It appears that there was miscommunication between the salesguy and the beancounters and they want me to make up the difference. Its the first time in my life that such an error was made in my favor, but nonetheless...

Questions:

(a) This is a screwup at the dealership - can they withhold payment, make registration delays or otherwise do something that's legal?

(b) If they become hardasses, who can I turn to for legal recourse?

In my mind, they made a mistake, they should swallow it and move on.

Your insights are appreciated! Thank you!

PS: If you wish to do so in private, please email me

zuba · March 2002

I can not help, but I know Shipo, etc....can! Can you let us know what you ordered, including specs, and what the price was! Thanks!

This should be good!

snagiel · March 2002

I'm no lawyer, but here's my thoughts...

First, the price you agreed with the dealer...I'm assuming you got that in writing on a sales form that bears your name and his, along with all the options on the car?

For the loan, I'm assuming you had to sign separate papers with BMWFS, right? What were the numbers there? Did you not notice a discrepancy?

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your scenario, but if you and the dealer agreed on a price ("X"), and BMWFS says they (or the dealer) screwed up the paperwork somewhere and you owe more than they originally stated ("Y"), I think you are still legally obligated to fulfill that amount, since you originally agreed to price X.

Granted, they made a mistake and should apologize, but they're not bringing up any surprise costs or charges here...it's what you originally agreed to pay.

Having said all that, I'm sure you could find a lawyer eager to look into this further. Be aware, though, the legal costs would probably cost $1000 or so (or maybe more), and you can probably guarantee not getting a Christmas card from your dealer for the foreseeable future.

Good luck.

snagiel · March 2002

From the issue of Roundel I received yesterday. Highlights include:

-"Launch in second half of 2003"

-"...Steel and alum. front-end structure which considerably reduces the load on the front axle, resulting in crisper steering response and handling."

-6 speed auto from ZF

-optional all-wheel drive xi version

-535i: 270 hp, 265 lb-ft. valvetronic V8

-545i: 330 hp, 330 lb-ft. valvetronic V8

-M5: 430+ hp 5.0 V10

-sadly, "...reveals the wrap-over trunk line [from the new 7-series]..."

The only picture posted is the same as the one found at:

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=4688&sid=178&n=156

nyccarguy · March 2002

It didn't mention anything about an Inline 6?

snagiel · March 2002

No, it didn't. I'm certain they'll offer it with smaller engines in Europe, but it's not clear whether they'll do so here.

In another article, it mentioned BMW is developing valvetronic versions of the 2.5 and 3.0 liter 6-inlines for the 3-series and upcoming X3 SAV, so I'd say there's a good chance those engines will find their way into the new 5-series as well. It would be great to have such a variety of choices.

nyccarguy · March 2002

BMW not offering an Inline 6 in the 5 series in some capacity. It would be cool if they had the 2.5 & 3.0 L Inline Sixes and drop the price to make more room for the increased # of V-8 models.

ek5 · March 2002

John01, nyccarguy, Shipo - thanks for your opinions and expertise (shift vs. auto, etc. and dealership opinion).

John01 - you mention trans made by ZF and GM. Who is ZF? I know GM (Gen. Motors).

Snagiel - Looks like an earlier release of 2003 than we thought? Was supposed to be in late 2003 or early 2004? Thanks for the update.

snagiel · March 2002

ZF (http://www.zf.com/animation.html) is a German firm that manufactures a variety of automotive hardware.

As for the new 5-series release, this article seems consistent with earlier estimates: that the new model will be introduced at the Frankfurt auto show in September 2003, with the European debut shortly thereafter, and US arrival in very late 2003 or early 2004 as a 2004 model. It now appears--as others had hoped based on some heavily-clad test mules seen driving around--the new model won't be rushed out for the Geneva show next March.

john01 · March 2002

It is a German company that specializes in automotive technology, mostly chassis and transmission, but also marine transmissions. www.zf.com

ek5 · March 2002

Snagiel and John01 - Thanks for ZF

Snagiel: The first sentence in the article you mention says "The new 5-series is expected to debut late in the 2002 calendar year..." Does debut mean at a car show or in showrooms? This seems like a new article and she's saying 2002 debut (not 2003, etc.) Sorry for my confusion.

snagiel · March 2002

I'm sorry, I misunderstood. I referenced that article only for the picture, not the text. Yes, that article does say 2002, but frankly I'd put more faith in Roundel's sources than this one's.

dl7265 · March 2002

Make mine a 535i 6 speed

. And after a setting in a 745i yesterday i have to say im quite fond of the design, i dont see what all the compaints are about..... perhaps im a little young for the crowd < 30's >.

DL

zuba · March 2002

How many Sport Package drivers out there have them, and are they worth $1200.00?

john01 · March 2002

I have them on our SPP 530. It could be less expensive, but I definitely like it.

mcq7159 · March 2002

Hi All,

According to the BMW website, my new 530 5-speed has been fabricated and is awaiting transport. How often do those boats cross the Atlantic? Once a month? Once a week? Daily? How long does it take to cross the pond?

The anticipation is killing me; thanks for any knowledge and expertise ...

Kirstie_H · March 2002

A major midwestern newspaper is interested in speaking with folks who have anecdotes and opinions on rear wheel drive vs. front wheel drive in winter driving conditions.
We're also looking for people who recently switched one way or the other and what they like/dislike about what they're driving now.
If you are interested in participating, please provide your city/state of residence and your daytime phone number to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than March 20, 2002.
Thanks as always,
Jeannine Fallon
PR Director
Edmunds.com

snagiel · March 2002

I've said it before and I'll say it again: It's worth every penny. Hands-down the most important option, in my opinion, and more than a few automotive journalists would probably agree. The car is truly transformed from an agile sedan to a high-performance, precise, exceptionally well balanced sports sedan.

snagiel · March 2002

The boats leave every few days, on average, and the journey takes about a week. After that, figure in another couple weeks for processing at VPC, transport to dealer, and final dealer prep.

But the Owner's Circle lags behind true status and lacks precise information. You can call 800-831-1117, choose option 3, and have your production number or VIN ready. They can usually tell you more accurately what the shipping status is, as well as provide a good estimated delivery date.

Now take a deep breath and relax...

nyccarguy · March 2002

you vehicle must sit on a lot in the lovely Port of Newark, NJ.

snagiel · March 2002

Somebody just posted this on the M3 forums...can't hurt to try.

Go to

http://schedule.2wglobal.com/GLWebApps.AppTracking

Select "Auto," and then enter the VIN in the Cargo ID.

vishnu11 · March 2002

With regards to my post where my dealer screwed up and wanted to shaft me, that's settled. Turns out the sales guy was getting shafted from upstairs (naturally).

I suggested to him that I pay the dealership for the balance so that he can look like he salvaged the deal, but then he and I can split the difference. He took it, and there it was - the settlement! Everybody was happy - I walked away with something, he walked away with his career dignity intact and dealership's got the deal.

So this dealership is indebted to me and would give a good price. If you guys are in the market for a bimmer, drop me an email (serious requests only please - don't intend to waste anybody's time here).

ZUBA - I replied to your earlier email this morning. Let me know your thoughts when you get a chance.

Thanks for your advice fellas, and I am relieved that this did not drag out.

ek5 · March 2002

Does anybody know if the 2003 5-series will get a "facelift" similar to the 3-series (updated front end,integrated light washers) before the redesigned 2004 comes out? Thanks.

snagiel · March 2002

It's highly unlikely; BMW models typically get a complete overhaul every 6-8 years (2003 will be the 5-series' 7th model year), and a facelift around halfway through that lifecycle. It received this facelift in 2001 already, so I strongly doubt you'll see any changes for 2003.

ek5 · March 2002

Thanks again for your expertise.

530bmw · March 2002

Chewie5 in 3-series TH post the following message.

"Just wanted to pass this along. It was posted over at roadfly. BMW Has Recalled the 2002 325I , 330I , 525I , 530I because the front strut could separate from the upper mount.

http://www.safetyalerts.com/recall/a/02/v00074.htm

or

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/Index.cfm (search for 2002 325i)"

Thank you Chewie5.

According to the info, only cars manufactured in November 2001 are affected. How can I find out when a car is manufactured, is there a sticker on the car somewhere that I can look?

snagiel · March 2002

Yes, you can look at the plate/sticker on the lower part of the driver's side B-pillar (where the door closes). It says in clear letters which month and year the car was manufactured.

I'm suspicious about how narrow a timeframe this recall applies for...did they just suddenly alter some part of the suspension assembly after 6 years on the line, and then change it back within a month?

nyccarguy · March 2002

On my way back to the Saab dealership to return my loaner car last night I couldn't help but stop into Prestige BMW for a quick glance at what they had on the floor/lot. I saw a Saphire Black/Black Leather 525i with a Sports Package & 5 speed as well as PP/CWP/Xenon. It was the 1st time I've seen a 525 with SP though. Definitely tough looking.

530bmw · March 2002

If I remember correctly, you and I have the same cars and we bought them around the same time (end of December.) I will check the date on my car and give them a call just to find out. I hope mine is not affected. Have you checked the web site with the recall info to see if you can decipher it a bit more?

nyccarguy · March 2002

While darting through Traffic here in Manhattan, there was a woman behind me in a Black on Black M5! What a gorgeous car!

snagiel · March 2002

Good memory. Yup, I picked mine up in December as well, but fortunately mine was produced in October '01. I called BMW at 800-831-1117 and, using my VIN, they verified there are no recalls pertaining to my car. You can read about the details of the recall at (this link posted earlier):

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/Index.cfm

Click on "Vehicle," then enter 2002, BMW, and 530i. You should then see two applicable recalls.

snagiel · March 2002

You know, it's interesting. Of all the M5's I've seen around (between Atlanta and Dallas--where I was travelling for a while), it seems like it's more often than not a woman driving. It's a little surprising.

riez · March 2002

Friend and I just came back from a 4-day 800 mile round trip business trip in my CPO '98 540i 6-speed. I haven't calculated MPG but she sure did ride and drive like a dream. We both marvelled at the comfort of the optional 16-way Comfort Seats! (I like to call them the "Spinemelter 2000", after an vignette in a Simpson's episode.) Eating up interstate at 74 mph seemed so effortless. I was sad to come back. I look forward to any reason to take her out for a spin.

ek5 · March 2002

Hey -- I know most of you are leasing your cars, but does anybody know the going rate for extended warranty? We're not sure if we're going to lease or buy yet, but just wanted some input. Thanks.

mlbmw · March 2002

that recall only for 530i, doesn't include 530iA, is that right?!, I check the web, it sounds 530i only. how about the car with SP, it is different suspension, same problem to recall?
Thanks for your advice.

zuba · March 2002

I am deciding between buying or leasing so here is my question: For a 530, with Premium and Sport, xenon and Cold Weather w/manual! For a 36 month lease at 15,000 miles per year maybe I can get a decent payment. Than I can keep my Maxima GLE for the other 10,000 miles I drive per year on the snowy, rainy, days!! Or I'll just park the 530 for the winter!

Can I lease one for under $600 per month?

pap5 · March 2002

Thanks for the Dinan tip and link. I'm aware of Dinan as a respected BMW tuner. I originally figured I'd keep mine pretty much stock, but this seems worth checking out. I notice that the engine management software is claimed to improve throttle response, which is part of the problem I'm perceiving. Does anyone here have any experience with Dinan engine software?

Had a brake light burn out the other day. Took the car to the local BMW center at lunch the next day to get one from the parts dept. to plug in. To get a warranty replacement, though, they had to actually install the bulb themselves, which I felt a little silly having them do. Fortunately, they were able to do it immediately -- the paperwork took longer than the "job."

bn_shopn · March 2002

Hats off to all those here who guided me in my qwest for the ultimate driving machine. You folks provided me w/ some great advice. I've chosen the 530 over the 525. The machine is on the boat now and should be in my dealership in a few short weeks. I guess I've gone from bn_shopn to now bn_waitn' and soon to bn_driven'!!

By the way, pd 1600+MACO over invc. on 530, pp, cw, auto,lumbar,xenon.

jaked · March 2002

I am about to purchase my first BMW and would like to receive some input on the what I believe to be my best two options..any comments would be appreciated.

2002 525i,Prem,Xenon,Manual
Price without tax: $38393
Color:Sterling Grey or Kalahari Beige available

Or

2000 528i,Prem, CD Changer,Auto, 9000 miles
Excellent condition
$33,862
Without taxes

I can't get the dealer to to come off the 2000 528i price anymore..I offered $32K. Thanks for any comments!

BMW 5-Series Sedans

Comments

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles