1998 BMW 5 Series 525 TDS SE review from UK and Ireland
"Potential to be great"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Pinched hose between the inlet manifold and the boost pressure sensor.
Pistons/piston rings.
Excessive fuel consumption.
Loss of power above 3000rpm.
General comments?
Disgraceful service from BMW and two of their dealers.
I used an independent engineer to assess the vehicle. Found excessive metal content and soot in the oil and excessive cylinder leakage. BMW still argued saying the car was within their specifications.
Ultimately took them to court where they settled prior to trial. Dealer bought the car back at market value and paid compensation for cost of the additional fuel used.
It seems that they don't want to fix your car unless it stops going and they can't get off the hook. The warranty gives great peace of mind until you need to use it.
Search for New and Used BMW 5 Seriess available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended Reviews:
  | Superb practical performance car |
| 1997 - 5 Series 540i Touring 4.4 V8 A masterpiece of German Engineering |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 turbo diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 40000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Scorpio |
| Date of Entry | 17th January, 2001 |