1997 BMW 5 Series 540i Touring review from UK and Ireland

Air conditioning condenser fan failed (common problem I'm told). The condenser was an original BMW part and was showing very minor signs of leakage, so it was replaced at the same time as the fan (£300 all in).

Rear window lift motor has failed. Fortunately in the 'up' position, Not yet been quoted to repair/replace.

Both rocker cover gaskets replaced due to very minor leak (£100 all in).

Had the restrictive rear silencer removed and replaced with a magnaflow universal rear box.

Also had the engine management system re-mapped by a company called 'Chipped-UK'. These modifications saw the BHP rise from 282 (Still as good as the day it left the factory! That shows just how good these engines are) to 320. The fuel consumption is also better now and the car has a far smoother power curve. The difference in power is excellent and the car sounds wonderful too. According to the on board computer, on the motorway at around 70 - 80mph, It can return between 27 and 37mpg.

The car has the TV and Satnav too, so it's almost home from home in there.

Absolutely love this car. May sell one day, but likely to be only for another 540 touring or 3 series convertible with the 2.8 engine, or an M3 if I can afford one.