Common Repairs on the BMW e39 5 Series

Common Repairs on the BMW e39 5 Series

This article features the BMW e39 5 Series common issues. Our BMW mechanics in Jacksonville, FL specialize in BMW repairs.

While it is was on the market from 1997-2003, the e39 5 series BMW was a very popular luxury car in the United States. The 5-series models during this time period include the 525i, 528i, 530i, 540i and M5, and at the time, they were the most state-of-the-art BMWs you could own. The e39 5 series had Flexible Electronics Design which allowed you to upgrade the in-car technology, and it was the first car ever to come equipped with Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Compared to all of the other luxury cars on the market, the BMW 5 series had the most superior handling and control. Even the best vehicles can have problems, and the e39 5 series is no exception. Below is a list of some common problems owners have reported with their BMW e39s, some can be caught during the BMW 1 and and BMW 2 Inspections before they become serious problems. If you experience any of the common problems seek repairs from a trained German auto service expert like the ones at Bavarian RennSport.

Cooling System: The water pump and thermostat have been known to fail in the e39 5 series, and in some rare cases the radiator can be faulty. To find out if your cooling system is failing, look for the “Service Engine Soon” light to illuminate and also keep a close eye on the temperature gauge. Being aware of how your car is running is a good habit for every car you own.

Hose and Line Leaks: Some areas of the high-performance e39 5 series engine can start to leak. This includes the power steering holes, oil valve cover, and other lines. Look for fluid deposits on your driveway, garage, or other places where your car sits for 10 or more hours at a time. Also, pay attention to whether or not you have difficulty steering or handling, and listen for misfires. Misfires could mean oil or other fluids have collected in the spark-plug wells. Again, following BMWs inspection schedule for your vehicle can identify and fix issues with your hoses and lines before something more serious occurs.

LCD Display / Computer Readout: The LCD display on the dashboard of your BMW 5 series conveys important information to you, like mileage. Sometimes, out of nowhere, the computer readout can drop pixels and turn into a jumbled mess of letters and numbers. This can be from a faulty ribbon cable or it can be the onboard computer. It is important to get this checked out at soon as you notice a problem.

Thrush Arm Bushings: These rubber units, sometimes called Thrust Arm Bushings, are part of the suspension system. The thrush arm bushings have been known to fail around 75,000 miles, or as soon as 40,000. The common symptoms include loose-steering, as well as jittering when you brake.

Window Regulators: In high-mileage e39 5 series BMWs, it is very common to have the front and rear windows stop working. The window regulators typically fail due to age, as well as wear and tear. To help prevent issues with your window regulators, be sure to keep your windows clean, and the tracks and guides free from leaves, pollen, and other kinds of debris.

These complex problems with the e39 5 series BMW are best repaired by someone trained and experienced, like the mechanics at Bavarian RennSport. Contact our independent BMW repair shop for assistance. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you can book your diagnostic appointment online here.