BMW

5 Series (E60)

2004-2010 · Midsize Sedan · 7 engines
Best Engine ⚠️ Caution (2.4)
1,930 NHTSA Complaints
14 Recalls
140 Fire Reports
50 Crash Reports
Includes data from: 5 SERIES5 SERIES GT5 SERIES WAGONM5
View all 5 generations of the BMW 5 Series → 📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Optional

Engine Reliability Ratings

N62B48

4.8L 8-cyl / 360 hp
⚠️ Caution (2.4)
84 complaints 16.8 per year Gasoline
2 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
26
electrical
17
engine
15
exterior
15
wheels tires
8

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (26 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (17 complaints)
Engine Issues (15 complaints)

5.0-V10-Gas

5.0L 10-cyl / 500 hp
⚠️ Caution (2.3)
44 complaints 11.0 per year Gasoline
3 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
28
interior
10
engine
7
electrical
6
transmission
4

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (28 complaints)
Interior Issues (10 complaints)
Engine Issues (7 complaints)

Same engine used in

BMW 5 Series Unidentified Engine

Avoid (1.8)
218 complaints 31.1 per year
15 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
46
safety systems
41
engine
37
fuel system
27
interior
25

Known Issues

Electrical System Issues (46 complaints)
Safety Systems Issues (41 complaints)
Engine Issues (37 complaints)

N62B44

4.4L 8-cyl / 290 hp
Avoid (1.4)
157 complaints 70.0 per year Gasoline
7 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
57
electrical
32
transmission
31
engine
21
interior
20

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (57 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (32 complaints)
Transmission Issues (31 complaints)

M54B25

2.5L 6-cyl / 184 hp
Avoid (1.4)
124 complaints 62.0 per year Gasoline
21 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
67
interior
45
electrical
25
transmission
10
steering
5

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (67 complaints)
Interior Issues (45 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (25 complaints)

M54B30?

3.0L 6-cyl / 215 hp
Avoid (1.1)
674 complaints 122.5 per year Gasoline
49 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
295
electrical
140
interior
101
engine
90
exterior
60

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (295 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (140 complaints)
Interior Issues (101 complaints)

N52B30

3.0L 6-cyl / 215 hp
Avoid (1.1)
626 complaints 125.2 per year Gasoline
43 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

engine
219
fuel system
168
electrical
130
cooling
81
safety systems
80

Known Issues

Engine Issues (219 complaints)
Fuel System Issues (168 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (130 complaints)
Show 2 additional engine variants with limited data
These engines appear in fewer than 10 owner complaints and aren't included in the main ratings above. Low counts can mean a genuinely clean record, but they can also reflect VIN-decode anomalies in NHTSA data. Treat as informational, not as a confident rating.

2.0-I4-Gas

2.0L 4-cyl / 241 hp
Recommended (4.7)
2 complaints 2.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

transmission
1
fuel system
1
engine
1

Known Issues

Transmission Issues (1 complaints)
Fuel System Issues (1 complaints)
Engine Issues (1 complaints)

Same engine used in

+119 more
AUDI A5 (2018-2025)BMW 5 Series (2024-2026)FORD Explorer (2011-2019)BMW X3 (2011-2017)KIA Sorento (2016-2020)SUBARU Impreza (2017-2023)AUDI Q7 (2017-2025)FORD Focus (2000-2007)HYUNDAI Tiburon (2003-2008)AUDI A5 (2008-2016)KIA Forte (2014-2018)JEEP Wrangler (2007-2018)VOLKSWAGEN Passat (2012-2022)FORD Escape (2001-2007)MAZDA B-Series (2000-2009)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2006-2009)BMW 3 Series (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ CLA-Class (2014-2019)DODGE Dart (2013-2016)BMW 4 Series (2014-2020)BMW X3 (2025-2026)NISSAN Sentra (2007-2012)BMW 2 Series (2022-2025)JEEP Cherokee (2014-2023)HYUNDAI Elantra (2017-2020)BMW X1 (2013-2015)DODGE Caliber (2007-2012)FORD Edge (2007-2014)BMW 5 Series (2011-2016)FORD Taurus (2010-2019)PORSCHE Macan (2015-2024)NISSAN Sentra (2013-2019)MERCEDES-BENZ GLA-Class (2015-2019)AUDI A3 (2006-2013)AUDI A6 (2012-2018)BMW X2 (2018-2023)CHRYSLER Crossfire (2004-2008)FORD Edge (2015-2024)BMW X4 (2015-2018)CHEVROLET Tracker (2000-2004)JEEP Grand Cherokee (2000-2004)FORD Taurus (2000-2007)FORD Escape (2008-2012)AUDI A4 (2009-2016)VOLKSWAGEN New Beetle (2000-2010)CHRYSLER 200 (2011-2014)BMW 2 Series (2014-2021)BMW X4 (2019-2025)INFINITI Q60 (2017-2022)DODGE Ram (2002-2008)BMW 3 Series (2019-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2019-2025)JEEP Patriot (2007-2017)AUDI A4 (2006-2008)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2000-2005)HYUNDAI Tucson (2005-2009)JEEP Compass (2007-2017)SUBARU Crosstrek (2018-2023)MERCEDES-BENZ Metris (2016-2023)FORD Escape (2013-2019)BMW 4 Series (2021-2025)AUDI TT (2000-2006)BMW 5 Series (2017-2023)HYUNDAI Tucson (2016-2021)FORD Focus (2012-2018)CHRYSLER Pacifica (2004-2008)AUDI Q3 (2019-2025)KIA Sportage (2005-2010)AUDI Q5 (2009-2017)BMW X1 (2023-2025)HONDA Civic (2001-2005)AUDI A3 (2015-2020)AUDI Q3 (2015-2018)BMW Z4 (2019-2025)AUDI A4 (2017-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2006-2010)LINCOLN MKT (2010-2019)MAZDA Tribute (2001-2011)DODGE Neon (2000-2005)AUDI TT (2016-2023)LINCOLN MKZ (2013-2020)DODGE Intrepid (2000-2004)VOLKSWAGEN Tiguan (2018-2025)CHEVROLET Malibu (2008-2012)BMW Z4 (2009-2016)CHRYSLER 300 (2005-2010)BMW X2 (2024-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2022-2025)FORD Escort (2000-2003)VOLKSWAGEN Routan (2009-2014)MERCEDES-BENZ SLC-Class (2012-2020)CHEVROLET Silverado 1500 (2000-2006)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2010-2014)VOLKSWAGEN Eos (2007-2016)DODGE Durango (2004-2009)VOLKSWAGEN Beetle (2012-2019)FORD EcoSport (2018-2022)FORD Transit Connect (2014-2023)HYUNDAI Elantra (2007-2010)FORD Fusion (2013-2020)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2015-2021)VOLKSWAGEN Tiguan (2009-2017)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2011-2018)FORD Maverick (2022-2025)CHRYSLER PT Cruiser (2001-2010)FORD Focus (2008-2011)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2015-2021)AUDI TT (2008-2014)VOLKSWAGEN Arteon (2019-2023)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2000-2006)VOLKSWAGEN CC (2009-2017)CHEVROLET Cruze (2011-2019)HYUNDAI Elantra (2001-2006)FORD F-150 (2000-2003)BMW X1 (2016-2022)AUDI A4 (2002-2005)LINCOLN MKC (2015-2019)AUDI Q5 (2018-2025)FORD Escape (2020-2025)

4.9-V8-Gas

4.9L 8-cyl / 394 hp
Recommended (5.0)
1 complaint 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

body
1
exterior
1
safety systems
1

Known Issues

Body/Trim Issues (1 complaints)
Exterior Issues (1 complaints)
Safety Systems Issues (1 complaints)

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the BMW 5 Series regardless of engine variant.

Safety Systems Issues (595 complaints)
safety_systems critical
Electrical System Issues (390 complaints)
electrical critical
Engine Issues (390 complaints)
engine critical
Interior Issues (201 complaints)
interior critical
Fuel System Issues (196 complaints)
fuel_system critical

Recalls (14)

23V707000Oct 19, 2023serious
Engine & Cooling

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2012 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series Sedan, 3 Series Convertible, 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagon, 3 Series Coupe, 5 Series Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, X3 xDrive 30i, X5 xDrive30i, and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The aluminum bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and possibly break.

22V119000Feb 2, 2022serious
Engine & Cooling

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.

19E058000Aug 27, 2019serious
Steering

ZF Group North America Operations (ZF) is recalling certain Lemförder Steering Center Rods sold as aftermarket parts for 1996-2004 BMW 5-Series (E39) vehicles. The steering center rods may have an insufficient ball pin pull force that may allow the rods to detach from the steering knuckle.

13V407000Nov 8, 2013serious
Exterior Lighting

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).

12V126000Mar 25, 2012serious
Electrical System

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.

12E029000Oct 7, 2012serious
Engine & Cooling

This recall involves aftermarket parts sold by Valeo. Valeo is recalling certain engine cooling fans, part numbers 696121, 696273, and 696275, used as service replacement parts for model year 2008-2011 BMW 1-Series, 2006-2011 BMW 3-Series, 2000-2009 BMW 5-Series, 2004-2005 BMW 6-Series, and 2006-2007 BMW 7-Series vehicles. A metal-oxide semiconductor may overheat due to insufficient screwing of the semiconductor on the aluminum heat sink. This primary failure could cause adjacent components on the fan assembly motor circuit board to overheat and short.

10V446000Jan 9, 2010serious
Service Brakes

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, 6-SERIES, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2008 7-SERIES VEHICLES. A CHECK VALVE OF THE BRAKE VACUUM PUMP MAY LEAK A SMALL AMOUNT OF LUBRICATING OIL. OVER TIME THIS COULD RESULT IN CONTAMINATION OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER.

08V384000May 7, 2008moderate
Air Bags

BMW IS RECALLING 200,000 MY 2006 3 SERIES SPORT SEAT, MY 2004-2006 5 SERIES STANDARD AND SPORT SEAT, AND MY 2004-2006 X3 PASSENGER VEHICLES. DEPENDING ON THE MANNER AND FREQUENCY OF THE FRONT PASSENGER'S ENTRY AND EXIT, SMALL CRACKS HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE MAT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAGS, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM, WILL BE DEACTIVATED AND THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP AS WELL AS THE PASSENGER AIR BAG "ON-OFF" LAMP WILL BE ILLUMINATED.

06V187000May 29, 2006serious
Suspension

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE NUTS WHICH SECURE THE FRONT AXLE CONTROL ARM AND TENSION STRUT TO THE FRONT WHEEL HUB MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION. OVER TIME THE NUTS COULD LOOSEN AND THE CONTROL ARM AND TENSION STRUT COULD BE DAMAGED.

06V277000Jul 25, 2006serious
Suspension

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE LOWER RUBBER MOUNT OF THE REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY NOT ADHERE CORRECTLY TO ITS HOUSING WITHIN THE SHOCK ABSORBER.

05V504000Jan 10, 2005cosmetic
Powertrain

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARKING PAWL GUIDE PLATE.

04V303000Jun 22, 2004serious
Fuel System

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8-CYLINDER ENGINES, A CIRCULAR RETENTION CLIP AT THE QUICK-RELEASE COUPLING ALONG THE FUEL SUPPLY LINE WAS INADVERTENTLY NOT INSTALLED.

04V344000Jul 13, 2004serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 8 AND 12 CYLINDER ENGINES, THE DIGITAL ENGINE MANAGEMENT CONTROL (EMC) UNITS WERE NOT PRODUCED ACCORDING TO SPECIFICATIONS.

04V575000Jun 11, 2004cosmetic
Seats

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT SEAT HEATING SYSTEMS, UPON ENTERING AND EXITING THE VEHICLE, EXCESSIVE CONTACT WITH THE SIDE BOLSTER THAT IS CONTAINED IN THE SEAT'S BACKREST MAY DAMAGE THE HEATING MAT LOCATED IN THIS AREA. IF SUCH DAMAGE WERE TO OCCUR, WITH THE SYSTEM TURNED ON, THE VEHICLE OCCUPANT MAY FEEL EXCESSIVE HEAT FROM THIS AREA.

Alternatives in Midsize Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series problems?

The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series has accumulated 1,930 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Electrical System, Engine. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.

Which BMW 5 Series engine is most reliable?

The 2004-2010 BMW 5 Series was offered with 9 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 4.8L 8-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 sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,930 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 1,930 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 14 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.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the 5 Series?

The 2010 BMW 5 Series received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 4 stars (10.5% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: Optional. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 1,930 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.

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