1982 BMW 5 Series 528e review from North America
"Fantastic ride, would buy another one"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Always was drawn to the lure of a BMW and finally bought this 528e.
Paid 1500.00 for it 2 years ago at 219K.
Soon realized I had a "big job" fixing it up due to the lack of maintenance by the previous owner:
- Shocks/Struts all around
- Idle control Valve
- Valve adjustment
- Fuel pressure regulator (car stalled at stop lights when hot)
- Fuel tank rotten, refurbished
- Timing belt, water pump, all front seals (were leaking) on the 2.7L
- Oxygen sensor
- Front brakes
- Worn out seats (a surprise as my Golf has 400K and the seats are like new)
- Broken shifter knob replaced (split)
- As a preventative measure I replaced ALL hoses, coolant and vacuum)
- Replaced park brake cables at 220K.
- Minor electrical problems (RR window, instrument cluster lights)
General comments?
While this has basically been a restoration project, in my view it has never let me down. Too bad the previous owner let the car go.
In hindsight I would make sure I take a closer look at the care of the next BMW I purchase as this one was really headed for the wreckers. Saved now, but after $4500 CAD I have put into it, much more that it is worth. And I ordered 90% of the parts from the USA, as the dealer prices in Canada are outrageous.
I love the handling, most especially on long trips. This car is the most relaxing unit I have ever driven. 150KMH is as smooth as glass.
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| Great car for very little money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1982 |
| Year of manufacture | 1982 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.7L Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 219000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 223000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 22nd September, 2004 |