1998 BMW 5 Series 540it review from North America
"Biggest mistake in 29 years of buying vehicles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This car has more cheap plastic parts than any other vehicle I have ever owned. Coin holders, door handles, cup holders, window shades, trunk latches, and trim pieces have all broken from normal use.
The ABS control module failed at 80,000 miles, a $700+ part.
The MAS (mass air flow) meter failed at 82,000 miles, a $500+ part.
The windshield washer fluid reservoir cracked, per the dealer, a $245 dollar part.
The intake gaskets needed to be replaced at 78,000 miles for over $800.
The theromstat needed to be replaced a hundred miles after the intake gasket, $245.
The ambient tempurature sensor failed at 65,000 miles.
The dealer also says the valve cover gaskets, front main seal, real main, and power steering lines leak.
General comments?
This car has not had a hard life. The maintenance schedule was followed. And yet I am afraid to drive it as it seems every week another plastic part breaks off or the service engine light comes on indicating another expensive repair is needed. This is by far the worst vehicle I have ever owned.
When it is running, it is a pleasure to drive. Solid, quite, fast. But if you can't afford about $500 a month for repairs don't bother.
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  | A good look no matter where you go! |
| Very well balanced car, but, put some money aside for repairs!!! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.4 V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 1/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 82000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 12th October, 2007 |