5 Series (E60)
Engine Reliability Comparison
2UZ-FE
4.7L 8-cyl / 230 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
LS2
6.0L 8-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
N62B48
4.8L 8-cyl / 355 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
M54B30?
3.0L 6-cyl / 255 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
N52B30
3.0L 6-cyl / 215 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
N62B44
4.4L 8-cyl / 290 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
M54B25
2.5L 6-cyl / 184 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the BMW 5 Series regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (2)
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housing of the connector resulting in an intermittent or permanent loss of functionality of one or more rear lamp functions (tail, brake, turn-signal, reverse).
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
All Generations
Alternatives in Luxury Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series problems?
The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series has accumulated 2,068 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Electrical System, Engine. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which BMW 5 Series engine is most reliable?
The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series was offered with 7 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series a good used car?
The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 2,068 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series have?
The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series has 2,068 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series?
There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used BMW 5 Series?
Before buying a used BMW 5 Series, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Safety Systems, Electrical System, Engine, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 2,068 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-06.