BMW 5-Series Sedans

shipo · March 2003

I had a good PT session yesterday, and literally overnight, my range of motion had improved so much that today, I squeezed into a large bedroom slipper and took my 530i for a ride to the office. Wow, when my hand finished its first gear change, it became all tingly, and I swear it had a "Handgasm"! ;-) What a pleasure to drive a real car for a change. Needless to say, I am taking it REAL EASY.

Hmmm, Mrs. Shipo put over 3,000 miles on it in the last eight weeks! I wonder if she has been taking the LOOONG way to work. ;-) No wonder why she keeps threatening to break my other leg when this one is fully healed. ;-)

I will get one more chance to drive it tomorrow, and then I will be out of town until the 17th, so, hopefully I won't regress too much (no PT in Taipei), as I am hoping to start driving it full time when I get back.

Best Regards,
Shipo

dabimmer · March 2003

Hey, great to hear you were able to drive and your account is priceless ! Have a good trip, negotiate a lot of business and let us know when you get back.....glad to hear you are ahead of schedule in your recovery.

kdshapiro · March 2003

Congrats on your speedy recovery and let's hope you keep in a "BREAK FREE ZONE" !:). I thought I saw Mrs. Shipo a few times in NJ. That would explain the looong routes to the office.

shipo · March 2003

Thanks Guys! ;-)

I think I am going to hide the key while I am in Taipei, that will allow her to re-adjust to the Caravan while I am out of town. ;-)

Best Regards
Shipo

blueox2 · March 2003

What do people think of 330i vs. 530i? I have driven the 330i in 5-spd (a real rocket!) but thus far only driven the 530i with Steptronic. Do you lose a lot of "sports car feel" by going with the larger, heavier 530i? Is that more than made up for by the advantages of a larger cabin, trunk, and more amenities in the 5-series? I can afford either and we plan to get a wagon or small SUV as our second car so the cargo space is not a major consideration for me in deciding 330 vs 530. One downside, of course, is that if I do get a 330 I'll have to change discussion groups!

ryoken · March 2003

Why change? Shipo posts in both groups.

shipo · March 2003

Hmmm, first off, there is only a 209 pound difference between the 330i and the 530i, so any performance difference will be undetectable by your "Butt Dyno". ;-)

Regarding other 3-Series vs. 5-Series issues, I posted the following on 5-Mar over on the "European Delivery" board:

As you might know, I turned in my perfectly good 1999 328i with only 40K miles on it last year. I did in fact consider staying in the E46 body style (either by keeping my 328i, or by moving up to a 330i), however, my growing children were complaining about their "Foot Room" in the back of my 328i, and I knew that the 330i would be no better. Given that I have always liked the look of the E39 5-Series, especially since the 2001 facelift, I decided to "Test fit" my kids in the back of a 5er. Even though the official specifications show it as having only 0.1" more leg room than the E46, my kids fit a lot better. The other issue I had with the 5-Series was performance, back in 1998 when I ordered my 328i, I drove a 528i, and found its performance to be just a little lacking. Now however, with the 3.0 liter engine in the 530i, I found that the car was transformed from a marginal performer to a car that could easily dust my 328i (which could in turn, easily dust a 325i). I was sold.

The only remaining issue was which body style, I was tempted to keep the 328i for a year or two longer and upgrade to the E60 5-Series (which was then thought to have a debut date in late 2002 or very early 2003), however, I REALLY did not like the look of the Spy Photos available at the time. In fact, I am still not too fond of the (now softened) look, and much prefer the classic lines of the E39. So I decided to order my 530i to coincide with a trip to Europe that my wife and I were planning.

As for specific likes when compared to the E46. Other than the performance, looks and extra back seat room already mentioned, I have compiled a list of items and how they compare, in my subjective opinion:

I like the steering in the 530i better, that said, I did not have the SP on the 328i
I like the 5-Series Premium Audio a lot better than the 3-Series Harman Kardon system
My wife LOVES the dual climate control that does not exist in the 3-Series
The 5-Series has a FAR more comprehensive "Trip Computer"
The seats in the 530i are far better than the comparable 3-Series SP seats

Then there are the little things, like when driving the E46, and you cross the temperature threshold south of 38 degrees, the car "Dings" you to let you know of that fact, and then (unless you catch it in time), it changes your dash display to show you the OAT. Grrrr. On the 5-Series, there is MUCH more display area, which is split between the Speedo area and the top of the Audio Panel display, so, when you cross that magic threshold, you are "Dinged" once, and no displays change. I know that this is a stupid little issue, but I cannot tell you how much aggravation that it caused me, and how GLAD I am that my 530i does not do that.

Best Regards,
Shipo

bimmer12 · March 2003

Good afternoon:

Been a long time since I've visited this board and glad to see it's still going strong. I was skimming some of the 500 posts I've missed and shipo, sorry to hear about your leg-hopefully PT will get you up and about soon- Any attempts to get your therapist to let you do a little PT reacquanting yourslef with the clutch of your 5'er?

Anyways, quick question for all on this board. Usually, when new models are introduced, there are little quirks in the first year of production (see E65 7 series).. Was curious if such problems exits in the first year of a new engine. I have a colleague looking into a 2001 530i- being the first year of the 3.0 litre engine, are there any mechanical issues that he should be aware of? Also, in 2001, BMW played arouns with the sterring of the 3-series introducing a "park-friendly" version that was a little soft. Was this also built into the 5-series? I don't think it was but just want to confirm.. Anyting else that he should look into with a 2001 model?

Thanks in Advance

shipo · March 2003

Welcome back. ;-)

The good news is that my clutch foot is in perfect shape, it is my gas and brake foot/leg that got itself dislocated/broken. I started driving with my right foot again yesterday (first time in my car in over two months), and so far I have driven about 20 pain free miles, including testing (on an empty side street) to see if I would have any pain during a panic stop. Needless to say, I haven't told my therapist that I am using it yet as I am still supposed to be in my "Clamshell" walking cast for most of the day. ;-) Fortunately (or otherwise) I will be out of town from early tomorrow until the 17th, at which point I have my Sturgeons' [sic] approval to start using the foot.

Regarding the 3.0 engine and steering of the 2001 5er: Good news, the engine is simply a bored out version of the venerable 2.8, with some computer tweeks and such, so no worries there. Good news also on the steering front, BMW played no such games with the 525i/530i Rack and Pinion steering like they did on the 325i/330i.

Best Regards,
Shipo

blueox2 · March 2003

Shipo,

Thanks for the feedback. I've been shopping late model used 330i and 530i. I guess the main issue I will have to consider is whether the 530i is worth the extra 4-5K and whether I can find a private party selling a 5-spd 530i near me.

Best of luck on your continued rehab. As an avid athlete who gets the occasional injury, the thought has occurred to me that one potential downside to the 5-spd is that it does require fully functioning right arm and both legs! Have a safe trip to Tapei.

BlueOx

shipo · March 2003

I wouldn't let a little thing like an injury sway your decision regarding the 5-Speed. I too have been athletic since well before I could drive, and in the thirty years since I got my first license, I have only been injured enough to prevent me from driving with both legs for a total of 16 weeks. That works out to only a little over two weeks a year on average. Fortunately for me, both times (I have now broken both legs, 28 years apart) I had a car with an Automatic at my disposal. Come to think of it, even if a "Fortune Teller" told me that I would break yet another leg next year, I would still insist on driving a car with three pedals. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

dabimmer · March 2003

Anyone know if cmr530 is back from her trip to SF? I check in everyday here and haven't seen anything. Anxious to hear about the trip up here from So Cal.

the_heidi · March 2003

Is the 525 still fun to drive or do I need the 530? I have driven both. With and without an automatic. I'm a fairly conservative driver. Will I regret the 525? Is the 530 worth the $$? With or without automatic? I would appreciate any opinions.

riez · March 2003

the_heidi... Both are nice cars. You won't go wrong with either, though if I went 525i I'd want a manual transmission and Sport Pkg. I'd say take both out for serious test drives on the type roads and times you normally drive. Get what you can live with. (Sounds like 525i should work, so would 530i, but only you'll know for sure.)

habitat1 · March 2003

Since you have driven both, what do you think?

My personal opinion is that the 530i is worth the extra $3,500 over the 525i. To me, that's a lot easier to justify than the $10k+ difference between a 530i and 540i. On the other hand, I agree with riez - equip the 525i with a manual transmission and sport package and you may not have the fastest car on the block, but certainly one of the best handling and looking.

bimmer12 · March 2003

With a manual, I think this debate is a toss-up and preference for power. With an automatic, the 525 engine works harder and often finds itself in higher revs... Add three passengers and it will struggle somewhat... Gas performance is not much difference so if you have the finances, go with the 530, you won't regret it. 525 w./ manual is nice and adequate though!

riez · March 2003

Too bad the 3 Series has falled to below average reliability, but, at least the 5 Series is still recommended, if with only average overall reliability.

In answer to those who wonder if getting the first MY is a potential issue, overall annual ratings for E39 5 Series:

1997 Below average
1998 Average
1999 Above average
2000 Average
2001 Average (w/no problem areas)
2002 Average (w/no problem areas)

Their methodolgy is interesting. The 1999 gets the best rating, being called a "reliable used car", but the 2001 and 2002 have no problem areas and both beat the '99 in three areas.

snagiel · March 2003

Naturally, a 2002 car is going to have very few (if any) "problem areas," which I think CR defines loosely as areas where the car exhibits higher-than-average (within the class) failure rates. So, even unreliable cars (e.g. Corvette) aren't likely to have many trouble areas in their first year or two.

Therefore, a 2001 5-series will have fewer trouble areas than a 1999 5-series, by virtue of its lower miles and younger age. But, compared to all 2001 premium cars, the 2001 5-series exhibits only average reliability, whereas among all 1999 premium cars, the 1999 5-series exhibits above-average reliability.

But I agree that this rating system can be misleading if construed in the manner in which you pose.

riez · March 2003

snagiel... There is no guarantee that a car will improve over time, either overall or in any one particular area. Just look at the 3 Series.

My wife has a MY 2000. It scores WORSE than the MY 1999 in 4 areas--cooling, body integrity, power equipment, and body hardware--but has a BETTER rating in 4 areas--fuel, ignition, electrical, and brakes. The MY 1999 3 Series is rated overall "average" whle the MY 2000 is rated overall below average.

The MY 2001 also gets a below average overall rating. Thankfully, the MY 2002 gets an average overall rating. CR says the 2000-2001 3 Series are "used cars to avoid".

mod62 · March 2003

10,000 miles since the end of October and skiing every weekend. I wash my my 525iT 5speed at least once a week, but would like to wax it especially after the winter in the New York area. Is there a certain amount of mileage or time that I have to wait for?

Thanks,
Mike

srfast · March 2003

the water no longer beads up on the car surface. Actually, you can wax it as often as you want as long as you use a "non abrasive" wax like Zymol. The multi purpose "cleaner/wax" should be used with caution because they can damage the clear coat that protects the paint.

Hope this helps...JL

snagiel · March 2003

I didn't say that a model's reliability improves over time, only that--all else being equal--a newer model should be statisically more reliable than an older model. Obviously, if a manufacturer switches suppliers or relaxes tolerance specifications, a model may decline in reliability over time. But remember, too, that these "reliability" and "problem area" ratings are judged in the context of all other cars in a category. Therefore, if a new reliable car emerges in the same category (e.g. the Lexus IS), it may re-center that category's average reliability.

These ratings, then, become complicated when you start comparing models from year to year, because there are many variables involved. But, in general, I think it's fair to assume that a particular model (barring any major changes) should be relatively consistent in its reliability; consequently, a more recent model will be more reliable than an older one.

habitat1 · March 2003

I do not think you have to wait any period of time to wax a new car. I have waxed my last two (Nissan Maxima and Honda S2000) within 2 days of bringing them home, with no ill effects. They both have clear coat finishes similar to BMW.

Also, the two ultra premium products: Zymol and Zaino are excellent for those willing to take a fair amount of time. However, I can also heartily recommend Maguires Professional #26. I have been using it on my Maxima every 4+/- months since 1994, and the finish still looks outstanding. It was recently in for its first ever minor body repair and the shop (which specializes in BMW/Mercedes/Porsche) also commented on the superb quality of the finish for an 8 year 135k mile car. When I mentioned that I use Maguires Professional, they indicated it is the wax they recommend to their clients. The other advantage with Maguires is it's ease and quickness of use. I can wash and wax my Nissan and S2000 in about 75 minutes each. With 2 young kids, I don't have the luxury of spending 4+ hours applying a two or three step system, especially when it doesn't last as long as Maguires.

Good luck.

cmr530i · March 2003

Unfortunately I am still here in SoCal

working clear until the end of June (teacher). I will be driving your way this summer probably in late July or August. I will take my 530 and stop for a day/night in Santa Barbara and then continue on. If you have any suggestions for places that are a must see please let me know. I haven't had the time yet to plan a detailed itinerary so I am open to ideas. Thanks for asking and hope all is well with you and your 5er.

shipo · March 2003

This morning on the way into the "Office" (it is 11:50 AM on Wednesday morning here), I saw a local Highway Patrol car. Said patrol car was a late model 520i, white and done up with lots of orange stripes and such; I will try to get a picture of one later this week.

Not that it is terribly relevant, but I also saw an older (E34) 520i with a "V6" tag on the front fender. Heaven Forbid!

Best Regards,
Shipo

athorpe · March 2003

Looking for some input on price for the E60.

I'm at the top of the local dealer's list for the 2004 5-series and they are about to start taking deposits. They are telling me price will be MSRP flat. This is clearly a big number, and clearly higher than the general price talk on this board for all types of 5-series - in particular it sounds like new 530s range from invoice +$1500-2000 these days, which is probably MSRP minus ~$1.5-2k I think.

A new model, being first on the list, etc clearly means I'm going to go to the cleaners on this one. Question for the group is whether MSRP strikes you as crazy/obscene/unjustified or just plain high/silly/self-indulgent (which it clearly is)? Is MSRP normal for new BMW models? (I suppose I should check the 7-board as well, does anyone have data on that?). I know all of this depends on 32 factors which someone will be nice enough to detail for me, but what I'm really interested in is the sanity check from those of you more knowledgeable than I.

For what its worth, I'm probably going to get a 545i auto (yes, heresy I know - wife + commute = auto unfortunately).

Thanks for your input.

snagiel · March 2003

MSRP is the norm with some BMW dealers even with established models, let alone new ones. About 18 months ago I went into the dealer in Dallas, TX (John Roberts or something like that), and the salesman told me with a straight face that he'd sell me a 530i (one he had on the lot) for MSRP, not a penny less. I laughed and left.

With the E60, I'm sure many dealers will ask above MSRP at its introduction, and I'm sure there'll be suckers lining up gladly to pay it. If you want to be the first on the block with a new toy, yes, you'll pay.

So...if you want a deal, be prepared to wait. Which will probably help reduce early production gremlins as well.

shipo · March 2003

AThorpe,

Ditto what SNagiel said, exactly.

To both of y'all,

What are you two doing up so late? ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

riez · March 2003

athorpe... I concur with snagiel's assessment. And you might want to keep in mind that the new 745i has been selling like hotcakes. If the new E60 5 Series is a market success, that will just be all the less need for dealers to deal in the first year or so. (I'm prepared to wait. I'm thinking I might shoot for an '05 CPO 545i in '07. I've got to see the new Pontiac GTO first as well as the upcoming 6 Series.)

This might be one of those times where ED makes sense? A new hot selling BMW is hard to negotiate off MSRP. But then it might also be hard to negotiate off ED MSRP, too.

sirtiger · March 2003

I have posted earlier that I am a new owner of a 2003 530I and had some questions which some of you may know....Any insight would be appreciated.

1. how do you move that seat belt up & down?

2. is there really a first aid kit in the car (the manual claims there is)

3. do most people buy a new gas lid with a lock? I found this unusual that the lid just opens up...and if the gas situation gets worse there may be some siphoning going on...

4. Is it worth using that on board computer to lock your ignition with the key pad security?

5. does any new owners have a trunk mat (for all that money I spent, I found it surprising that there is no trunk mat!!)

6. Why does the computer dings with that temp. thing every time I start to drive? It's starting to irritate me....

7. Anyway to turn off the auto dimming feature manually?

8. Does going in the electrical system void warranty?

9. For those who bought the car new, did you get a 20% coupon for buying accessories? (Some of my friends did 2 yrs ago).

10. Do you think most owners buy mudguards? (I find myself wiping that area more than I would like)

So far the car is excellent. Only grip is that there is only one cig. lighter for my gadgets, lack to interior storage and the of course... the lousy cupholders....

jhox85 · March 2003

where do you buy that Maguires Prof. #26 wax?

Local stores? Thanks for your help.

ii31 · March 2003

Hello,

Last week, BMW service folks found a faulty
air mass flow sensor in my car. It's on special order now.

Yesterday morning, while accelerating from 5-10 MPH speed,
my car stalled! No power steering, completely
dead. I safely pulled it to the right, re-started
the car. It started ok, no warning lights etc. It's almost
as if nothing happened.

It's a 2000 540ia with 28k miles. I bought
it used from a local BMW dealer. Thank God
it's still under warranty.

Anyone else faced similar stalling?
Could faulty air flow sensor be responsible for
stalling? Pardon my mechanical ignorance :=)

Thanks

I.I.

habitat1 · March 2003

Is sold in local auto parts stores here (DC area). Pep Boys, Auto Zone and the like.

snagiel · March 2003

I know some of these:

1. how do you move that seat belt up & down?
You can't; it automatically adjusts based on the seat position (fore and aft).

2. is there really a first aid kit in the car (the manual claims there is)
Are you sure there isn't an asterisk next to it in the manual indicating it's not standard equipment? Either way, it's only available in Europe. The kit apparently has some items which violate some regulatory ordinances (FDA, I believe), so instead of jumping through hoops to qualify it BMW just leaves it out for US models. Some dealers might allow you to special-order one from the Fatherland, but it'll cost you. If, however, you had bought the car through European Delivery, the kit is there while you're in Europe (they remove it at the US port of entry), so if you remember, you can remove it and bring it back yourself.

3. do most people buy a new gas lid with a lock? I found this unusual that the lid just opens up...and if the gas situation gets worse there may be some siphoning going on...
It's only accessible when all doors are unlocked (using the central unlock button or the one on your key fob). If the car is locked and you can still open it, have a dealer inspect.

4. Is it worth using that on board computer to lock your ignition with the key pad security?
Whoa, I didn't even realize that was possible. Time for me to go re-read the manual (it's amazing how many things I learn every time I leaf through it). Nevertheless, it sounds like a pain to me.

5. does any new owners have a trunk mat (for all that money I spent, I found it surprising that there is no trunk mat!!)
No mat comes standard, but you can order one through the dealer or an after-market one like WeatherTec.

6. Why does the computer dings with that temp. thing every time I start to drive? It's starting to irritate me....
I assume you're referring to the 37-degree chime. It's there to remind you that it's cold enough for some icing conditions. Just wait a couple of months, and you won't be hearing it again until next Winter. I don't think it can be disabled.

7. Anyway to turn off the auto dimming feature manually?
On the rearview mirror? Sure: put some electrical tape over the sensor.

8. Does going in the electrical system void warranty?
What are you planning to do? Theoretically, a dealer has to prove any modifications you do are directly related to any warranty claims you make, but in reality I've heard of many folks facing a lot of denied warranty coverage for highly unrelated things when they start fiddling with any number of components (electrical or mechanical) in their vehicles.

9. For those who bought the car new, did you get a 20% coupon for buying accessories? (Some of my friends did 2 yrs ago).
No, but joining BMWCCA (which I recommend) saves you 10-20% at many participating dealers for parts and accessories.

10. Do you think most owners buy mudguards? (I find myself wiping that area more than I would like)
I don't see them on the majority of 5-series, and I'm not sure how effective they are. But they're relatively inexpensive and are probably at least somewhat helpful.

As for the cupholders, check out www.ultimatecupholders.com for an alternative.

seivwrig · March 2003

If you need another power outlet, you can buy an adaptor and use the spot where your flashlight is. Or you can an adaptor which will convert your cigarette lighter to three inputs from Bavarian Autosport www.bavauto.com

sirtiger · March 2003

Snagiel, thanks for your answer as they were quite helpful. I will take a look at these misc things when bring my car out this weekend....

4. Is it worth using that on board computer to lock your ignition with the key pad security?

Whoa, I didn't even realize that was possible. Time for me to go re-read the manual (it's amazing how many things I learn every time I leaf through it). Nevertheless, it sounds like a pain to me.

I was watching this feature in the BMW VHS video that came with the car. It has some numeric code you can set to secure your car. I havent tried it out yet but it was intriguing. That on-board computer has several interesting features but still a pain to go maneuver (makes me glad that I didnt go for the NAV)

7. Anyway to turn off the auto dimming feature manually?

On the rearview mirror? Sure: put some electrical tape over the sensor.

Electrical tape? That would make it the mirror dim even more!! LOL!!

8. Does going in the electrical system void warranty?

What are you planning to do? Theoretically, a dealer has to prove any modifications you do are directly related to any warranty claims you make, but in reality I've heard of many folks facing a lot of denied warranty coverage for highly unrelated things when they start fiddling with any number of components (electrical or mechanical) in their vehicles.

Nothing too serious but I was planning to hardwire some toys like radar, entertainment sys., etc. into the car.

10. Do you think most owners buy mudguards? (I find myself wiping that area more than I would like)

I don't see them on the majority of 5-series, and I'm not sure how effective they are. But they're relatively inexpensive and are probably at least somewhat helpful.

Its an option for BMW just like the trunkmat...its an option as well. I guess I take my Toyota Camry for granted when it came with mats, mudguards, 60/40 split, etc. I observed many luxury cars and noticed that many cars dont have the mudguardst. I have been wiping by the rear tire every so often which I was wondering if everyone is doing the same thing.

spyderred · March 2003

I too got tired of the area behind the wheels. I ended up buying a set (front and rear) and installed them. They work great and make a huge difference. I like them. Some people don't. Personal choices.

Good luck,

Spyderred,

snagiel · March 2003

Mirror: My suggestion was in jest, obviously, but taping over the sensor would render it blind to bright headlights from behind. The mirror dims when it senses concentrated bright light, not darkness. (I believe that's how it works, at least.)

Electrical system: I've hardwired my detector, as have many others, without any problems. Just be sure to tap the correct wire. As for "entertainment system," this can get hairy. Installing new speakers is one thing, but redoing the head-unit, amp, etc. can get complicated, especially if your car's got the DSP amplifier. Since the car's electrical components operate over a proprietary "I-Bus" network, it's possible to render a fair degree of damage if you're not aware of what wires you're cutting, splicing, or otherwise interfering with. I suggest you do a lot of homework and get comfortable with the electronics first, or pay a visit to a quality audio shop experienced with the 5-series (i.e. not Circuit City).

cmr530i · March 2003

While I did not get a coupon when I bought my 530 in 2001, my sales person did accompany me to the parts/accessories dept. of the dealership and had the sales person there give me a good discount on the front windshield sunshade, which I thought was a nice touch. Perhaps a phone call to your sales person is worth a try.

dabimmer · March 2003

My 5er is very good ,thank you, and if it is OK then I an OK ! Seriously, coming up Highway 1 from LA to Santa Barbara is scenic and great for driving that Bimmer. Santa Barbara is worth an overnighter so that you can tour the city, that's a must. I don't know how you will be traveling,how many people and their ages,etc.
But, a tour of Hearst Castle near San Simeon is doable , even on a tight time schedule. There are several tours and timetables for each tour. Big Sur is beautiful and well worth spending some time there and the rest of the coast up to Monterey is peaceful and beautiful.
Be sure to spend as much time as you can in Monterey and Carmel it is well worth it. Might be worth it to make this an overnighter. The little town of Cambria just before you get to San Simeon is delightful and worth at least a rest stop there. From Monterey to SF I suggest
you take 101 instead of staying on the coast and pass San Jose and on to San Francisco.
Your tour book will outline the many things to do in SF. Don't miss the many fine dining opportunities in the City. You and your 5er will enjoy this DRIVE. If I might, I would suggest going back home via 101, it is fairly scenic and the nice thing is you run into towns all the way down about every hour so it breaks up the trip considerably and nicely. By the way, San Jose is worth seeing, especially the revamped downtown which is quite nice!
.

stl540 · March 2003

The oil service light came on at 14,600 miles on my 2002 540i. I made an appointment for service with the dealer where I purchased my car. I took the car in this morning, they gave me a no-cost loaner (2001 325iA) and away I went. I picked up my car a couple hours later. They changed the fuel filter, the 2 micro filters and the synthetic oil and oil filter. They also checked the brake pads for wear and washed my car. I was shocked to hear that I have 98% of my brake pads left. I do not feel I am that easy on brakes. I find it hard to believe that I still have 98% left. I am not complaining.

My overall service experience was extremely positive. I love that I only need to visit the dealer once every 15K miles and the dealer is VERY professional when I do visit them. They take the BMW customer service ratings very seriously and it shows with their attitude. I asked a couple probing questions regarding the survey and the service rep told me their pay is directly affected by the ratings. This is a little different than many other dealer experiences that I have read on this board.

Regarding tire rotation....FWIW before the dealer knew what car I was bringing in for service, he asked if I wanted to have my tires rotated. I told him I have the 540i with SP (different tire sizes) and he retracted his question. Not sure if it was recommended or if he was looking for a couple of extra bucks (out of my pocket) to rotate my tires.

stl540 · March 2003

I have the Dunlop SP2000E with 15K miles. They should make it another 8K-10K miles. The have some wear, but I still have a decent amount of tread left. I am happy with the tires in warmer weather (above 60 degrees) in dry or wet conditions. The tires are horrible in the cold (less than 30 degrees and worse as it is colder) and are even worse in snow. I debated on getting snow tires and decided to wait. I should have purchased them (especially after reading Shipo's post re: his good experience with snow tires), but the snow in Stl was never at a point where I was unable to move. I just had to be more cautious about where I stopped (preferably never on a hill) so I could get moving again. In the really cold weather (less than 15 degrees), the tires would want to spin when I hit the throttle approx half way down while going 30 MPH. DSC kept the car under control. I am happy to see spring come our way.

I waxed my car this weekend to get that beautiful shine back that I had before the winter. I have the jet black 540i and it shows everything. I used 3M IMPERIAL HAND GLAZE to get out swirl marks and I used ONE GRAND BLITZ WAX after the hand glaze to provide a nice shine. I am VERY pleased with the outcome. The swirl marks in the hood and down the side take away from the look of a clean car. My car looks as good as new after the hand glaze and wax.

I have a container of the Zymol Concours Glaze (received as a gift - price on their website is $133- OUCH), but rarely use it because it takes SOOO long to apply and is not very durable. I may use the Zymol later this spring if I have a few extra hours to spend on my car. The Zymol Estate Glazes (which Concours is one of them) are designed to provide a beautiful shine that you would expect at a car show. I do not plan to enter any car shows in the near future, but you never know.

shipo · March 2003

"My 5er is very good ,thank you, and if it is OK then I am OK!"

I read a TEE shirt just recently that went something like this, "If Mommy ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. If Daddy ain't happy, ain't nobody cares." In our house, "Mommy" has been driving "Daddy's" 530i for the last 11 weeks, trust me, she's happy. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

dabimmer · March 2003

I bet she is happy, very happy! After 11 weeks
she may not want to relinquish the object of her affections.... what then?? What a thought, huh?

2ndmb · March 2003

Thanks to the advice of some folks on this board and other factors, I bought the C.P.O. 2002 540SPT today in yes, slate green. It looks great and drives like a dream. Only problem is 5 inches of snow predicted for tomorrow! Thanks to those who gave me encouraging advice. I guess I should change from 2ndmb to 3rdbmw.

shipo · March 2003

Funny thing, I am getting mixed messages from her. On one hand, she keeps threatening to break my other leg when this one finishes healing enough for me to drive my car. On the other hand, she is in the market for a new vehicle herself, and she want another MiniVan.

I have tried to talk her into a 525iT, but she keeps thinking that the van would be more comfortable (for the children that is) on long trips (like possibly going to both of the Dakotas (from New Hampshire) this summer to visit some of her family. Oh well. :-/

Best Regards,
Shipo

shipo · March 2003

He he. Congrats on the 540i, worst case scenario (assuming the snow hits the upper end of the forecast range) you can sit in the car, learn how to program the computer, and listen to great CDs in the process. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

cbgb1975 · March 2003

regarding the personal code security, I suppose this may be handy if you were leaving your car somewhere where you or it could be hijacked...or maybe you do not trust the guys in the parking garage who know you leave your car there for 8 hours a day, you know they want to joyride once in while...the occasions may be few and far between,but just another level of security....I did buy the weathertech trunk liner and it fits really well...as for cupholder, if it's coffee you're drinking,Target carries the perfect insulated stainless steel cup made by mego that fits great,think it's the 10 oz latte, not the 12 oz;if it's a big gulp 20 oz drink that you like to carry,i have no recommendation,sorry...the thing i find a bit goofy is the handle over the driver door as it has no function for me...finally, your comment on mudflaps made me think of brake dust...does everyone just clean their wheels a lot or is there some accessory to minimize this?..

dabimmer · March 2003

Though I would much prefer a 525 Tourer, the thought of a comfortable mini van with a DVD player and monitor for the passengers on a long trip sounds mighty inviting, I could see myself scooting back there and putting on at least one of my favorites of all time, yes I can.

dabimmer · March 2003

Though I would much prefer a 525 Tourer, the thought of a comfortable mini van with a DVD player and monitor for the passengers on a long trip sounds mighty inviting, I could see myself scooting back there and putting on at least one of my favorites of all time, yes I can.
Let's see... Casablanca, Lawrence of Arabia,To Kill A Mockingbird; when do we leave?

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