1994 Bmw 525i problems

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The BMW E34 is the third generation of the BMW 5 Series, which was produced from November 2, 1987, until 1996. Initially launched as a sedan in January 1988, the E34 also saw a "Touring" station wagon (estate) body style added in September 1992, a first for the 5 Series. BMW replaced the E34 with the E39 5 Series in December 1995, although E34 Touring models remained in production until June 1996.

The E34 generation marked the first time all-wheel drive was incorporated into the 5 Series with the 525iX, and the first V8 engine to be used in a 5 Series. The E34 also saw the introduction of stability control (ASC), traction control (ASC+T), a 6-speed manual transmission and adjustable damping (EDC) to the 5 Series range.

There was an unusually large range of engines fitted over its lifetime as nine different engine families were used. These consisted of straight-four, straight-six and V8 engines.

The E34 M5 is powered by the S38 straight-six engine and was produced in sedan and wagon body styles.

1994 Bmw 525i

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Common 1994 Bmw 525i problems

Based on complaints from owners of the BMW 525i 1994, several common problems have been reported:

  • Transmission Problems: Complaints include issues with the transmission, such as the car revving up as if in neutral after hard braking, followed by sudden jerks when accelerating. This could indicate transmission slipping or related issues, potentially requiring fluid changes, filter replacements, or gasket repairs.
  • Cooling System Troubles: Some owners have faced expensive repairs related to the cooling system, including radiator, oil radiator, thermostat, water pump, and head gasket replacements. These cooling system problems can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Power Steering and Fluid Leaks: Reports mention power steering fluid reservoir cracks, which can lead to power steering issues and fluid leaks. Addressing these leaks promptly is crucial to prevent steering problems and maintain the vehicle's performance.
  • General Wear and Tear: Normal wear items like shock absorbers, brake pads, batteries, and other components have been replaced by owners over time. While these are typical maintenance tasks, they contribute to the overall cost of ownership and upkeep of the BMW 525i 1994.

By addressing these common problems promptly and performing regular maintenance, owners can ensure the longevity and performance of their BMW 525i 1994. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and adherence to manufacturer recommendations can help mitigate these issues and keep the vehicle running smoothly.

1994 Bmw 525i engine

Why won't my BMW 525i start?

The most common reasons a BMW 525i won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

What is the top speed of a 1993 BMW 525i?

Specs

  • Engine Specifications.
  • Engine Configuration. 2.5 I6.
  • Petrol.
  • RWD.
  • Transmission. Manual, 5-speed.
  • Power. 141 kW (192 hp)
  • 230 km/h.
  • 8.6 s.

What is the top speed of the BMW 5 Series 525i?

Key Specs

  • Petrol.
  • 152.4 cu-in. 2497 cm3
  • Inline 6.
  • 215 HP. 218 PS / 160 kW.
  • 184 lb-ft. 250 Nm.
  • 152 Mph. 245 km/h.
  • 27 MPG. 8.7 L/100 km. 32 MPG UK.

What engine is in a 1990 BMW 525i?

M20B25 inline-6

Petrol

ModelYearsEngine
525i1988–1991M20B25 inline-6
1991–1992M50B25 inline-6
1992–1996M50B25TU inline-6
530i1988–1991M30B30 inline-6

How reliable is a BMW 525i?

BMW 525i Ratings Overview

The average rating is a 4.2 out of 5 stars.

What is the main problem with BMW 5 Series?

Faulty cooling system

The main issue to look out for in a Mk4 5 Series is a malfunctioning cooling system, which accounts for a quarter of all trips to the garage. Ensure the engine doesn't start overheating on a test drive, and look for any signs of leaking coolant under the car.

What is the fuel consumption of BMW 5 Series 525i?

The Fuel Average of BMW 5 Series 525i is 12 - 16 KM/L.

What is the top speed of a BMW e34 525i?

Performance

1994 Sedan Models518i525i
Top Speed (mph)198 kph (123 mph) *192 kph (119 mph)230 kph (143 mph) *225 kph (140 mph)
0-50 kph (31 mph)4.0 Seconds2.6 Seconds
0-80 kph (50 mph)8.4 Seconds5.8 Seconds
0-100 kph (62 mph)12.3/ *13.7 Seconds8.6/ *9.5 Seconds

1994 Bmw 525i car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 525i problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Power train problems
  • Latches/locks/linkages problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Bmw 525i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1994 Bmw 525i complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Bmw 525i.

2008-12-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1979-12-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY TRANSMISSION WENT OUT IN MY 1994 BMW 525I. THIS HAS BEEN REPORTEDLY HAPPENING TO MANY OF US. THE FAILURE WAS IN THE REVERSE GEAR FIRST, THEN THE FIRST TWO FORWARD GEARS. *TR
2002-06-03

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-05-20
  • VIN: WBAHD632XRG
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS HAVING THE SAME DOOR LOCK/LATCH PROBLEM AS STATED IN RECALL 94V219000. BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
2002-06-03

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-05-27
  • VIN: WBAHD632XRG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CONSUMER HAS SAME PROBLEM WITH COOLANT SYSTEM AS STATED IN RECALL 98V178000. BUT, THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
1999-10-05

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-07-22
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: RADIATOR BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, CAUSING VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT. ALSO, HEATER CORE CRACKED. *AK
1999-09-28

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-04-16
  • VIN: WBAHD6320RG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY 3/31/98 DUE TO OIL LEAK. FAILED AGAIN ON 4/28/99 AT 55900 MILES. WHITE EXHAUST SMOKE AND COOLANT DROP OG 35 MM IN 2438 MILES. AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR NOISY AND VIBRATES STEERING WHEEL AND DOES NOT COOL AT IDLE. COMPLAINT UNDER WARRANTY ON 3/31/98 NOT FIXED. REPLACED IDLER PULLEY ONLY. GETTING WORSE ON 4/30/99 AT 56400 MILES.
1998-06-11

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: WBAHD6329RV
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: AFTER HAVING RECALL REPAIR WORK DONE LAST WEEK VEHICLE IS STILL EXPERIENCING SAME PROBLEM, THE THROTTLE WILL REMAIN OPEN, WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE. RECALL # 97V131000. *AK
1997-07-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: COMPUTER COMMAND CONTROL MODULE FAILED, LOCKING CONSUMER IN VEHICLE.
1997-02-03

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-30
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: SECURITY SYSTEM ENGAGED WHILE OCCUPANTS INSIDE, OCCUPANTS TRAPPED INSIDE.

1994 Bmw 525i recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1994 Bmw 525i.

1998-08-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT, SUCH AS A THERMOSTAT, WATER PUMP, OR FAN BELT, CAN RESULT IN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED COOLANT TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM PRESSURE. IF THE INDICATIONS OF A CRITICAL OVERHEATING CONDITION IS NOT NOTICED BY THE DRIVER, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DAMAGE TO, OR FAILURE OF, A COOLANT SYSTEM COMPONENT COULD OCCUR.
  • Consequence: IF A CRACK WERE TO FORM OR A SEAM WERE TO SEPARATE IN THE HEATER CORE END PIECE, HOT COOLANT COULD SUDDENLY BE EXPELLED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN RADIATOR CAP TO CONTROL PRESSURE AND PROVIDE GREATER COOLANT OVERFLOW IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING.
1997-08-19
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE VALVE TO REMAIN PARTIALLY OPEN. IT HIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE CAR MIGHT NOT DECELERATE AS EXPECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING STEEL CLIP ON THE OUTER TUBE OF EACH CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE ADJUSTING SCREW AND PLASTIC BUSHING. THE CLIP IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE OUTER TUBE FROM DISLODGING FROM THE BUSHING.
1996-07-01
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
  • Summary: THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH CAN FAIL ALLOWING THE SWITCH TO REMAIN IN THE "BRAKE LIGHTS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LIGHTS ON" POSITION.
  • Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LIGHTS EITHER WILL NOT OPERATE OR WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY ON, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL POSITION. FOLLOWING DRIVERS WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS STOPPING, INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED SWITCH.
1994-11-08
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: THE DOUBLE-LOCK FEATURE CAN ENGAGE WITH OCCUPANTS AND THE DOOR/IGNITION KEY INSIDE THE VEHICLE.
  • Consequence: THE OCCUPANTS OF THE VEHICLE WOULD BE UNABLE TO EXIT EITHER FROM THE DOORS OR FROM THE WINDOWS OF THE VEHICLE. DRIVE-AWAY PROTECTION WOULD PREVENT THE ENGINE FROM STARTING.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GENERAL CONTROL MODULE WITH ONE CONTAINING THE REVISED SOFTWARE TO PERMIT WINDOW OPENING WITH THE DOUBLE-LOCK ENGAGED AND KEY IN THE IGNITION.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1994 Bmw 525i problems:

1994 BMW 525i
1994 BMW 525i
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?485438-1994-BMW-525i

Feb 15, 2006 ... 1994 BMW 525i ... M50TU that is in the 1994 525i is a great engine. ... The most common problems include blown head gaskets and failing VANOS units.

1994 BMW 525i Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
1994 BMW 525i Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1994-bmw-525i/problems

Top 1994 BMW 525i Problems · Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area. 72 people have reported this · Front Tension Strut Bushings May Fail. 41 people have reported ...

BUYING 1ST BMW, 1994 530i, ADVICE NEEDED | BMW CCA Forum
BUYING 1ST BMW, 1994 530i, ADVICE NEEDED | BMW CCA Forum
https://www.bmwcca.org/forum/index.php?threads/buying-1st-bmw-1994-530i-advice-needed.2511/

Nov 7, 2008 ... After the problem was found, BMW issued an extended six-year, 100,000-mile (160,000 km) warranty to cover these engines at no cost to the owner.

BMW 525i Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
BMW 525i Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/bmw/525i

Top BMW 525i Problems · Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area · Front Tension Strut Bushings May Fail · Blower Final Stage Fan Resistor May Fail · Coolant Loss Due to ...

Mechanical things you need to know about your E34 - UPDATED 3 ...
Mechanical things you need to know about your E34 - UPDATED 3 ...
https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/mechanical-things-you-need-to-know-about-your-e34-updated-3-22-11.525152/

Mar 7, 2011 ... Here is a list of problems/failures that are common on the E34 and preventative measures. ... Hey I have a 1994 540i bmw...I posted a ... i have a ...

Other years of Bmw 525i

bmw 525i 1995 photo
525i 1995
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bmw 525i 1998 photo
525i 1998
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bmw 525i 1999 photo
525i 1999
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bmw 525i 2001 photo
525i 2001
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bmw 525i 2002 photo
525i 2002
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bmw 525i 2003 photo
525i 2003
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1994 Bmw 525i photo