BMW 5-Series Sedans

dan_bmw · March 2003

I understand there is a BMW website or contact number that will enable me to track the order/production status on a new BMW order. I would really appreciate someone letting me know the details on how to start this tracking process.
Thanks
Dan

dan_bmw · March 2003

The 525i is amazingly quick with the stick. Personally, finances permitted,I would go for the additional $3600 for the 530. Especially if I was going for the Steptronic. I test drove all four combinations. Additionally, I raced a 2002 528i stick against my 94 325 stick and I got blown away in all departments.

snagiel · March 2003

Actually, the service computer calculates the need for oil service stricly on gas usage, correctly figuring that higher gas consumption usually requires more frequent oil changes.

sel3 · March 2003

For 2003, the only differences between the two models are the engine size and the 530 comes with the auto dimming feature on the rear view mirror with the PP. That being said, you have to determine if the extra cost difference is worth it to you.

I have a new 525 with a steptronic, depending on which reports you read, the 525 is 1/2 to one second slower that the 530 from 0 to 60. Both share the same top end speeds.

I purchased my car in Europe, the salesman has been selling BMWs and Volvos for 25 years. He convinced me that based on my driving style and the fact the car is going to be used in the US and not Europe, that I could save nearly $6K by getting 525 without the sports package. I believe his motives were pure since the car was custom ordered from the factory, and based on his advice he made less commission on the deal.

The salesman stated that 525 has enough power for most people, after driving the car, I would have to agree. He was also totally against the sports package. I was really surprised by this, but he stated that it is 90% cosmetic and 10% performance enhancement and does not improve the resale value of the vehicle. The M-tronic enhancements are designed for better handling at high-speed driving (over 100 MPH), he asked me how many times I will drive that fast in the US.

Good Luck!

jb_shin · March 2003

I just looked at your profile and looks like you're in Northern VA area. There is a outfit called "Colors & Parades" located somewhere in PA. However these guys actually come to Euro Motor Cars in Bethesda once or twice a week to work on minor scratches and dents on dealer cars. They once fixed my Integra with deep gashes on my front bumper and matched the paint exactly. I am not sure if he still comes there since it has been a while, but you might be able to get info. from the dealer. The price is quite reasonable and the work is usually finished in a day or less, but you do need to make an appointment.

habitat1 · March 2003

Regarding the 525 vs. 530 power debate, that issue comes up pretty regularly here. The general recommendation is that YOU should thoroughly test drive both cars yourself and decide what's adequate (or not) for you.

For what it's worth, the jump from a 525i to a 530i does give you the most bang for the buck, compared to jumping from a 530i to 540i or (as I did) a 540i to M5. And the 530i actually manages nominally better gas mileage, since the larger engine is better matched to the vehicle weight. But only you can decide if any additional "bang" is worth the $3,500 +/- difference.

On the other hand, I respectfully, but wholeheartedly, disagree with the suggestion that the "sport package" is a 90% cosmetic option. If I were on a limited budget, it is the ONLY option I would take. Handling and steering precision is improved at ALL speeds and the car even tracks better in a straight line on the highway. There is an additional cost to the sport package in terms of (slightly) more frequent tire replacement, but that is nominal on a $40k car.

Don't get me wrong, a 5-series without a sports package is a comparable or better handling car compared with Lexus and Mercedes. But a 5-series with a sports package is the absolute class leader in steering and handling. I would take a 525i with a sport package over a 530i without, in a heartbeat.

snagiel · March 2003

Ditto...exactly.

Too often, dealers are obviously trying to sell you whatever they've got on their lots, and will say everything they think you want to hear to help clear their inventory. I suppose this case is different, but I suppose it reinforces the fact that, when it comes to making judgement calls about packages and options, in general I would place greater importance in (a) auto journalists (most of whom laud the sport package), (b) discussion forums like this, and, of course, (c) the differences you feel.

I don't want to contribute to buyer's remorse, since for many people the standard setup is indeed fine. But I agree wholeheartedly that the sport package is the most important one, and unlike some carmaker, it is certainly not 90% cosmetic, nor does it hinder resale value.

snagiel · March 2003

Easy: Just register at bmwusa.com/owner's circle with your production number or VIN (obtain from dealer). Or call BMW at 800-831-1117, select option 3, and they can run a more up-to-date query on the production status.

shipo · March 2003

My previous BMW (1999 328i) did not have the SP, my current car is a 2002 530i w/SP, and there is absolutely no comparison. Handling is enhanced in virtually all phases of driving from zero to governor max (128 mph), and my car has seen considerable time north of 100 (I did ED and was able to spend enough time to enjoy my car over there after the break in period). In addition to the handling enhancements (lower/stiffer suspension and better wheels and tires), there is at least anecdotal evidence that BMW includes slightly different brakes with the SP. While I have not been able to come up with the exact numbers, when I ordered my winter wheel/tire combo from TireRack.com, I was told that wheels that fit the non/SP equipped 530i will not fit the SP version due to brake caliper clearance issues.

Yes the SP does also in fact include "Cosmetic" features such as much better seats, a steering wheel that is far more pleasing to grip (the wheel in my 328i was the same as the non/SP 5er), and the leather/wood combo knob for the shifter seems less likely to slip out of your hand on a hot/humid day (assuming A/C off, and window and roof open). I would have to agree with most other folks, if one can afford only one package, get the SP. Any salesman telling customers that the SP is "90% cosmetic" is simply "Blowing Sunshine up the customers' skirt", IMHO. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

div2 · March 2003

I agree with Shipo's comments on the SP. That said, my wife's E39 is a great car-and it doesn't have SP. Nonetheless, I would never get a BMW without SP if I planned to be the primary driver. The SP raises the already fine handling to an entirely new level. It's evident that your salesperson simply wanted to move a non-SP 525i, so he said whatever was necessary to convince you to buy it. His comments about the SP only being needed "for better handling at high-speed driving (over 100 MPH)" reveal that he is either
1.An outright liar
or
2.Hopelessly ignorant regarding his product knowledge.

spyderred · March 2003

Ditto,
If you are on a limited budget and can only afford very few options, The first on my list would be the SPORTS package. The E-39 with this package really transforms the car into (in my opinion) the BEST handling midsized sedan out there. I don't think anything in this class can compare.
Again, just my personal opinion.

The Sports package is a must for me.

Spyderred,

sirtiger · March 2003

I have some simple question about those beautiful angeleyes on the 5 series which I have seen around.

They seem to be add ons which cost a lot. Will they interfere with my xenons headlights or just an addition to my current ones? Do they have a separate switch to turn on or only on when parking lights are on like the fog lights? I know its more cosmetic to have one but they are very attractive on the 5ers.

Any insights will be greatly appreciated.

srfast · March 2003

2003 BMW 530i with SPORT PACKAGE. I agree with all the previous posts regarding the SP. This is definitely a worth while option. If there is a question regarding SP/non SP, drive both and decide which ride you prefer.

Hope this helps...JL

srfast · March 2003

standard "park" lights on the E39 5 series beginning in MY2001. Many pre 2001 E39 owners have upgraded using BMW or aftermarket components. Since they are "factory", AEs do not interfere with the headlight systems.

Hope this helps...JL

dabimmer · March 2003

Ditto... ditto... ditto. ditto
Mmmmm... let's see my 2001 E-39 has steptronic tranny, xenons, self dimming mirror,
leather, wood adornments, split seats, rain sensor, absolutely wonderful 3.0 in-line 6(a silky smooth power plant) and last but by no means last-- the sport suspension. If I had to make a choice for only one of the above (besides the engine, which i would have to keep) my ONLY other must have is .... the sport suspension !! Just my $2 worth( my time is valuable).

div2 · March 2003

The AE retrofit is a dead simple do-it-yourself job; it should take @1 hour, tops. The AEs won't intefere with your xenons either. Just make sure that your AE kit comes with the correct plug and play wiring harnesses. Check out the "Tips & Tricks" section of bmwtips.com for some additional information.

sel3 · March 2003

Gentlemen,

To be fair to the salesman, he deals mostly with first-time BMW buyers, you could say most are average drivers that are coming out of very average automobiles. With that in mind, his comments could be relevant.

Based on the board's comments, there are some real BMW experts that really understand the cars and the SP.

As for me, I had the opportunity to purchase a custom ordered 525 or 530 at $7600 to 8000 below US MRSP, plus avoid US customs and state sales tax bring the total savings close to $10,000. The PP was more important to me than the SP, but I am a first-time BMW owner that is just happy to be driving a world-class automobile.

Thank you for your feedback, at least we can agree that BMWs are great cars that are fun to drive.

div2 · March 2003

You're correct, there's certainly nothing wrong with a non-SP car. I'm sure you'll enjoy your 5er. As for your salesperson, I still think he's incompetent and/or clueless. At best. Dealing with first time BMW buyers does not excuse a total absence of product knowledge. Don't feel bad; In the early nineties I had a debadged Cinnibar Red 535is. BMW salespeople repeatedly asked me if it was an M5 or an M6-among other SWAGs. Never mind that the M6 was a two door coupe and that all North American E28 M5s were Black. Only ONE BMW salesperson ever correctly identified the car. And then there was the time back in 1995 when a BMW sales guy checked out my brand new-and dead stock-318ti Club Sport and asked who installed the body kit...

pap5 · March 2003

Thanks all for your suggestions. Initially, I'm going to hope that the damage is superficial enough that the detailer at my dealer can handle it. When I got the DME upgrade a couple of weeks ago, I noticed some new scratches on one of the fenders, consistent with someone bending over the fender without a pad. The detailer did a creditable job of removing the scratches (and did a quick detail on the whole car) at no cost. I showed him the door scratches and he thinks he can handle the job. If I'm not satisfied with the work, I'll follow up with one of the sources/methods you suggested.

pat · March 2003

Join us tonight, 6-7pm PT/9-10pm ET for another
round of automotive trivia and member-to-member chat.
Test your skills (or multiple choice guessing ability)
against other Town Hall members.

http://www.edmunds.com/townhall/chat/townhallchat.html

Hope to see you there!

jtuoti · March 2003

Gents, I stand corrected and REALLY appreciate the info...I don't remember where I picked up that the torque convertor and rear end was different in the 530i SP but that's academic now. I'm hoping BMW starts a lease incentive for the 530's as we get closer to the new 5's but I'm not holding my breath. None of the dealerships around here can keep them in stock...(sigh)

happyharley · March 2003

Hello all. I have loved the styling and performance of BMWs over the years and I have finally come to a point in my life where I could afford one (unfortunately not a new one). Specifically I like the 5 series the best and have found one that I am interested in. 1997 540i 6M for around $22,000. From talking with the dealer and checking it through Carfax, it has 59K miles and had one previous owner. Pictures of it look good inside and out. Carfax states that it was a lease vehicle and registered commercial (presumably for business purposes?). However, from what I have read on different web sites there might be a problem with reliability of this model, specifically the radiator, transmission and various electrical problems. My question is A) does this appear to be a resonable deal?

am I going to have to shell out thousands more dollars repairing various systems as they fall apart in the near future (since the factory warantee is no longer in effect) and C) Would any of you current BMW owners not jump at this deal? I realize that BMWs are inherently more expensive to own, but I don't want to buy into a money pit as I have read from different BMW owners, or is this just a small minority of unlucky BMW owners compared to the vast majority that are still in love with their cars after 50-100K miles? Any help in making my decision will be appreciated.

riez · March 2003

happyharley... I'm a big fan of BMW CPO program. Because you wrote, "since the factory warranty is no longer in effect", I'll assume this is NOT a CPO car. Have you considered a CPO car? You should check out BMW NA's CPO locator. Is this from a BMW dealer?

You should check out the recent and past annual car issues for Consumer Reports. Some great information on reliability data. You might also check Intellichoice.

Always a good idea to have an independent mechanic check it out. One familiar with BMWs.

Make sure to get service records. Talk to past owner. See what maintenance was done and what you might need in near future. Keep in mind that the BMW Schedule 1 and 2 services aren't cheap. (You should hope they did one of these recently.)

If not CPO, will the dealer provide some short-term warranty? Even if only for 30-90 days?

On 11/30/01 bought my '98 540i6 at about 52,000 miles. CPO from a BMW dealer. She now has 73,000 miles. Troublefree from anything major. Some minor things (e.g., headlights burned out, kids broke rear cupholder, needed to get the instrument cluster computer readout screen replaced--though this likely would've cost a bit if not for the car being CPO). My tires are wearing and there is some road noise, but I'm too cheap to replace at this time.

the_heidi · March 2003

I asked this question in the finance section and thought I should post here also. With each additional security deposit, how much does this buy down the money factor?

texbmw · March 2003

I am a prospective BMW buyer. I'm in the market for a 5 series, probably 530. I have read all the discussion above about pros and cons on the sports package. Seems like the pros have outweighed the cons by a large majority. I am interested in getting a car that serves my practical purpose of driving my family around town. However, I want to make sure that it's an exhilarating drive as well. So what I want to know is: What are the CONS to the sports package, aside from the added cost? Any other input would be appreciated as well. Thanks!

shipo · March 2003

It really depends upon where you live. For those of us who live where there is frequent snow and ice, the most significant drawback (and from my perspective, the only drawback) to the SP is the need for two sets of tires.

Best Regards,
Shipo

snagiel · March 2003

Cons:

- You'll replace tires more often, and they'll be slightly more expensive (since they're larger and are pricier performance tires). Regarding Shipo's point, he's right, but relying on the standard all-season tires has its disadvantages as well both for performance handling and for winter traction.

- The ride is slightly more harsh. Some appreciate this firmness and direct feel, but others prefer a more Lexus-like disconnect from the road. So you should test drive both (on roads you normally travel on) to judge for yourself. It also depends on whether you live in, say, Detroit or Palm Springs: Not all roads are the same.

- You'll probably use more gas and oil, since you'll look for every excuse you can find to drive more often. Not that this is necessarily a "con."

shipo · March 2003

--You'll probably use more gas and oil, since you'll look for every excuse you can find to drive more often. Not that this is necessarily a "con."--

Tehe, some would say that any extra expence is cheaper than a pshrink. ;-)

Best Regards,
Shipo

texbmw · March 2003

Points taken from both of you. Given that I live in Texas, I am not too worried about the buying two sets of tires issue. As for the ride, I'll just test drive both. I imagine even a "harsh" ride in a BMW is going to be miles above a supposedly great ride in any other car.

cmr530i · March 2003

Having owned my 530 w/ SP for two years, I have never had one of my passengers ever use the word "harsh" when referring to the ride. All remark on the smooth performance and comfort. I live in CA and have driven roads both paved and unpaved. The SP suspension in my opinion handles the various roads beautifully. Potholes are the only things that I scan the road for as they can damage the wheels. Oh, and of course there is that one small section of the fast lane through the Mulholland Pass on the south 405 Fwy where a lane was made from half of a pitted shoulder and half concrete slab that should have gotten someone at CalTrans hung by the toes, but I digress... In my opinion, you will be pleasantly surprised with the SP so go for that test drive!

2ndmb · March 2003

Having owned a 97 528i (no sp then) and now a 540i w/sp, there is a big difference in handling and the ride quality is excellent on the sp version. No harsh ride issues, and the 17" wheels look much better too!

texbmw · March 2003

It's good to hear some comments on actual experience with SP vs. nonSP packages. I have had a chance to drive a 540i without the SP, so now I need to get to a dealer to try out the SP on both the 530 and 540 before committing. Any other info or anecdotes would be appreciated since I am probably making a decision in about 2 to 3 weeks. Thanks.

joatmon · March 2003

You may put down up to 9 extra security deposits. Each extra SD reduces the lease factor by .01. As an example, if the factor is .20 and you put down 9 extra SDs, your net factor is .11. You can calculate the effect, but I've found it to be a rate of return of about 14 - 16% annual. A real bargain.

Happy Motoring,

Jack

pap5 · March 2003

A minor con: Lowered ride height makes it easier to bottom the chin on driveway aprons, curbs, and parking space dividers. Easily addressed by approaching steep driveways very gingerly, and not pulling so deeply into parking spaces.

texbmw · March 2003

Has anyone heard about the functioning of the nav system in non-metropolitan areas? I live in a smaller community and a friend of mine with a MB told me that his nav system only shows about three roads when he's driving in town. I am wondering if the fact that the 2003 models will have DVD based nav systems will affect this in any way. I would probably get it despite this shortcoming since I do so much driving in Dallas and Austin, but I am still curious.

snagiel · March 2003

I'm not sure if the new DVD-based system has more detailed map coverage over the old CD-based systems, but you should be able to figure it out easily by testing one out at your dealer. Simply plug in your home address as the destination, and see what level of detail is available for the area. I recommend testing the system for general functionality and ease-of-use, since I believe it's a generation behind the Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti system. If you're doing a lot of travelling and would otherwise rely on old paper maps, it may be worthwhile. But for occasional help with navigation or the "gee whiz" factor, I think it's a waste of money. My two cents.

seivwrig · March 2003

I don't have the DVD based nav system but the maps did get better with the latest editions. I occasionally go to Columbia County, Arkansas with my wife and latest edition will get me to my brother-in-law's house. He lives on a county road (aka paved and unpaved). The navtech maps are getting better, so you can actually get directions to some rural areas of East Texas.

ii31 · March 2003

Hi TexBmw,

BMW Nav systems are way behind Acura or Lexus.
My '00 540 has CD based navigation system.
Browsing through BMW nav takes few days to
get used to. There is NO touch screen
capability (unlike Acura).

As for coverage, I live in SF Bay area.
No problem there. I'd imagine that DVD based
system may have more map data. One big difference
btw CD and DVD is that the later covers whole
USA. CD is only regional (in my case, CA and NV).

Best way is to try it out during test drive.

I am a big fan of Nav systems. It makes driving
to new places a lot more fun. Get it!

I.I.

texbmw · March 2003

Yeah, I figured I would go ahead and get it since I do drive so much in larger cities. I guess the reality is that you don;t need it where you actually live anyway! Thanks for the comments.

seivwrig · March 2003

Believe it or not, I do use the nav where I live. I live in Houston and I am not going to a read a key map (for a Houston key Map the price is near $50, if I got key maps for the neighboring counties, it be about the price of an update map.) With areas like Houston or the DFW Metroplex, the NAV is great. There is no way that you will know these cites unless you are a cab driver. I have heard the argument against NAVs in your own city. Unlike NYC or Miami where the streets have numbers, Houston and Dallas have no rhyme or reason to the names.

As far as types of NAVs go, I would not want a touch screen. I like the Nissan/Renault set up with joystick like controls. The BMW setup just take some time to get used to and it is not as fast as the others.

sbarnett · March 2003

Greetings: My wife just gave birth to our fist child, and I have reluctantly come to the conclusion that I must say farewell to my M-B SLK 230.

I want to get either a 2000 or 2001 540iT wagon with the sport package.

Can anyone let me know if there is reason to prefer one year over the other, if mileage is about the same? Any maintenance nightmares I should be aware of before I take the plunge?

Thanks very much

habitat1 · March 2003

Far be it for me to dissuade anyone from a 5-series. The 530i sport will be my next sedan. However, since you are coming out of a Mercedes, I happen to also think the E320 Wagon is a great vehicle. It offers 4 matic if you need a little extra traction. The third row seat, although only for small kids, adds versitility. And it's considerably roomier for cargo and passengers than the 5 series.

There is no doubt that a 5-series, expecially with sport package, offers better handling and driving dynamics than the E - class. But, IMHO, the E-Wagon offers more of what I would be looking for in a wagon. We have two kids and when it comes to replacing our SUV the E320 wagon will get a close look. I'll reserve the 5-series for the sport sedan version, where it has no peers.

srfast · March 2003

I mentioned a few weeks back that I was replacing the stock/factory BMW brake pads with Axxis (formerly Repco) Deluxe Plus pads. BMW brake pads are notorious for producing excessive amounts of brake dust and the pads on my 2003 530i with SP are no exception. I've lived with brake dust before, but having to clean my wheels every weekend was a task I wanted to avoid. I've used Repco/Axxis Metal Master pads on my 1993 325i/SP with crossed drilled rotors with positive results and was hoping the Axxis Deluxe Plus pads would produce similar results on the 530i. BTW, the pads and rotors were replaced after 50K miles on them and they still had approx. 40% of useful life remaining on them!

After some research, the Deluxe Plus pads were selected because they suit my current driving style - aggressive, but not a "racer." I've acquired a purpose built race car for SCCA competiton so my street driving style has mellowed a bit. Besides excellent stopping properties, the Deluxe Plus pads are rated low dust and rotor friendly.

BMW Stock Pads:
I used these pads for the first 900 miles of ownership. Good stopping properties but EXCESSIVE dusting. The front wheels were coated with a moderate amount of dust each time the car was driven. The rear wheels were only "lightly" coated. Wheels were cleaned almost each weekend.

Axxis Deluxe Plus Pads:
500+ city and highway miles after properly bedding pads. Braking ability is equal to or better than BMW OEM pads. Front wheel dust: minimal. Approx. the same amount of dust coating rear wheels using OEM pads after 50 miles. Rear wheels: hardly noticeable. Note: the dust observations are after 500+ miles WITHOUT cleaning the wheels.

2nd Opinion:
I showed my car to a 2002 540i/6 owner and his comment: "I get more brake dust on my wheels driving to work (20 mile commute) than you have after 500 miles."

My opinion:
If you want to rid your BMW/E39 of brake dust, get a set of Axxis pads. The only question should be: Which pad is right for me ?

Axxis Pad Comparison Link:
http://www.zeckhausen.com/axxis_pads.htm

Dave Z. (Zeckhausen Racing) stocks Axxis pads.

Hope this helps....JL

shipo · March 2003

Thanks for the update, I am going to be swapping my winter tires back to the stock Pilot-Primacys in a few weeks (something tells me that we are going to get dumped on one more time this winter), and that would be a good time to swap the pads. That said, I have heard in the past that the Axxis/Repco pads are inclined to squeal a bit. Are yours quiet so far?

Best Regards,
Shipo

srfast · March 2003

The bedding process is the key. As long as you bed new pads properly, they will be as quiet as OEM.

Hope this helps...JL

irish44 · March 2003

I need some assistance on the reviews of a 530i versus the Lexus-GS-300. I'm looking at a used 530i-2002 with 20k. I need some pros & cons on a 530i vehicle and currently own a GS-300. Thanks

habitat1 · March 2003

One of my golfing buddies traded a GS400 for a 540iA sport. He took a big hit on the GS400 after only owning it for 18 months, but claims the performance - especially handling and steering - of the 540i were well worth it. He has been a happy camper ever since.

I think the Lexus GS is an attractive car with very good fit and finish. If you like a softer, luxury ride, it's a great alternative to Mercedes. As for driving dynamics, the 5-series is in a league of it's own, IMO.

srfast · March 2003

How is this car equiped ? This would help us provide appropriate input.

TIA....JL

bmwdoug · March 2003

I am in the market for a used BMW. I have the opportunity to purchase a 2002 330i Silver on Grey, Sport/Premium package, Xeons, 18 inch M wheels for $34,000. Or, I can purchase a 01 530i, 26000 miles, Sport/Premium, Xeons for $36000. Which do think is the better deal? Which will hold value longer? Thanks

kdshapiro · March 2003

If I were you I would ask myself, which car do I really need or want. I think it's less about price and more about your needs and determining which car fits you better. The 3 has more sport less luxury, the 5 has more luxury and slightly less sport. I'm sure neither will disappoint.

BMW 5-Series Sedans

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