2004-2008 BMW 5-Series: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation BMW 5-Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation BMW 5-Series .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Battery:
The battery may die overnight if the key is left in the ignition on vehicles with electronic immobilizer system. (2004-06)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may illuminate accompanied by rattling sound from front of engine due to leak in oil line for variable valve timing system. (2004-07)
Electrical problem:
The low oil warning light was coming on after the ignition was turned off. The sensor was being replaced under a recall. (2004)
Electrical problem:
The electronic steering lock warning light may illuminate and/or the vehicle will not start if battery was low when starting. (2006)
Electrical problem:
The oil condition sensor on the 2.5L engine can short out internally causing intermittent no-starts. (2004)
Electrical problem:
The flat tire warning light may illuminate due to miscommunication between run-flat warning light and the electronic height control or if the flat tire monitor is not reset after tire replacement. (2005)
Engine stalling:
The engine may run rough or miss (the check engine light may also come on) due to problems with the original ignition coils and the carmaker is replacing them with Bosch coils. (2004 and prior)
Engine temperature:
Engine may overheat due to one or more problems with the electric water pump on the 6-cylinder engine. (2005-06)
Headlights:
Headlight modules were being replaced during a campaign in areas where the temperature may exceed 95 degrees F to replace the lamp module that allows power to remain on and drain the battery. (2004)
Spark plugs:
Due to casting porosity in some of the 2.5L engine cylinder heads, oil may leak and collect around the spark plug tube. (2004)
Speedometer:
Speedometer and/or tachometer needles may vibrate at idle requiring vehicle reprogramming. (2004-07)
Trunk latch:
The pivot for the trunk hydraulic lift cylinder may work loose and/or its threads may rust requiring either reinstalling with Loctite or replacing the pivot. (2005)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $920 |
| Alternator | $810 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $3,410 |
| Brakes | $1,340 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $1,830 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,450 |
| Exhaust System | $930 |
| Radiator | $1,040 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $3,130 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,300 |
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