1999 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.

1999 Bmw 525i

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Common 1999 Bmw 525i problems

The BMW 525i 1999, part of the e39 5 series, is known for its luxury and high-performance capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by owners of this car:

  • Cooling System Failure: The cooling system is the most likely component to fail in the BMW 525i 1999. This issue is responsible for a quarter of all visits to the workshop. When test driving, it's crucial to pay close attention to the engine temperature. If the air-con is not functioning correctly, it may not be able to blow hot and cold on demand.
  • Electrical Faults: Electrical faults are common in modern-day cars, and the BMW 525i 1999 is no exception. All lights, locks, stereo controls, windows, and mirrors should operate as they should. If not, it may indicate an electrical fault.
  • Valve Cover Oil Leaks: Valve cover oil leaks are the most common issue in the BMW 525i 1999, according to RepairPal. This issue is most common in the 1997, 1999, 2000, 2009, 2011, and 2012 model years. When a persistent oil leak happens, it will start to reduce the oil pressure and capacity in the engine. If left unaddressed, the leak will cause low oil levels and, in turn, premature wear on the internal engine parts.
  • Front Thrust Rod Bushings or Tension Strut Bushings: These bushings are rubber and filled with oil to help with vibration. Unfortunately, over time, the bushings crack and break apart. Once the bushings fail, it will cause the steering wheel to shudder over bumps and throw off the alignment enough to wear the tires unevenly.
  • Broken Window Regulator: A broken window regulator can cause the window to be stuck up or down. The regulators are an issue seen across the 5 Series and some 3 Series BMWs from 1997 to 2012. If the window becomes stuck, the car’s security is compromised, and the elements have free reign of the interior.
  • Seat Switch Failure: The seats in the BMW 525i 1999 are known to fail, making it difficult to move the seat forward or backward. This issue is often caused by faulty switches or seized motors.
  • ABS Failure: The ABS module can fail, causing an ABS light to appear on the dashboard. This issue is often caused by the board failing or the lines getting gutted up from not doing brake fluid services often enough.
  • Engine Failure: The V8 engine in the BMW 525i 1999 is known to have cooling line failures and timing chain failure. These issues can cause catastrophic engine failure, making the car a non-runner.

In summary, the BMW 525i 1999, like any vehicle, has its share of common problems. These issues range from cooling system failure to electrical faults, valve cover oil leaks, front thrust rod bushings or tension strut bushings failure, broken window regulators, seat switch failure, ABS failure, and engine failure. It's crucial to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.

1999 Bmw 525i engine

How many miles can a BMW 525i last?

A BMW can last 150-200,000 miles with proper care and if you drive the national average of 13,500 miles per year, you can expect to drive your BMW for 10-15 years according to MotorAsk.

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.

Is BMW 5 Series a reliable car?

Owners told us about their experience with the BMW 5 Series (2017-2023) as part of our annual Reliability Survey. Most of our readers said their cars were proving to be reliable, but minor issues were reported by some owners – mostly relating to the car's infotainment system, seats and suspension and bodywork.

How much is a 525i BMW worth?

Prices for a used BMW 5 Series 525i currently range from $2,690 to $9,488, with vehicle mileage ranging from 77,304 to 217,176. Find used BMW 5 Series 525i inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.

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.

How many miles can a BMW 525i last?

A BMW can last 150-200,000 miles with proper care and if you drive the national average of 13,500 miles per year, you can expect to drive your BMW for 10-15 years according to MotorAsk.

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

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

Which generation of BMW 5 Series are most reliable?

BMW 5 Series F10 (2010-2016)

This model is regarded as one of the most reliable 5 Series due to its well-engineered design, and it also received high ratings from both Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.

1999 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:

  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Bmw 525i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1999 Bmw 525i complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Bmw 525i.

2001-09-04

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-09-03
  • VIN: WBADM6337XB
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE, WHICH IS PLASTIC, BROKE OFF IN MY HAND WITHOUT OPENING THE DOOR AS I ATTEMPTED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. ACCORDING TO A BMW INTERNET FORUM THAT I MONITOR, THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM FOR THIS MODEL. THIS EVENT REQUIRES THE DRIVER TO EITHER LOWER THE POWER WINDOW TO ACCESS THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE, OR CLIMB OVER THE CENTER CONSOLE TO THE PASSENGER'S DOOR, OR GET ASSISTANCE FROM THE OUTSIDE IN ORDER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED UNDER NORMAL USAGE. IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT IT COULD HAVE FATAL CONSEQUENCES.*AK
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1999 Bmw 525i problems:

525i BIG problems! | BimmerFest BMW Forum
525i BIG problems! | BimmerFest BMW Forum
https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/525i-big-problems.521419/

Feb 20, 2011 ... 525i BIG problems! ; Raise the front of the car to gain access to drain plugs. Drain engine oil (probably contaminated with coolant); Drain ...

common problems for 540i E39
common problems for 540i E39
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?425831-common-problems-for-540i-E39

Oct 10, 2005 ... ... 99. I have heard the same thing, although the VANOS engine started in 1999. I read that BMW started using lockwashers in 1999. 1999 540i Sport.

Opinion on 5 Series BMW and common problems | BimmerFest ...
Opinion on 5 Series BMW and common problems | BimmerFest ...
https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/opinion-on-5-series-bmw-and-common-problems.177217/

Nov 27, 2006 ... I agree... and yes, electrical problems are definitely part of my maintenance on my '99 528i. I've replaced speed sensors, spark plug boots, and ...

1999 BMW 5 Series Problems | Kelley Blue Book
1999 BMW 5 Series Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/bmw/5-series/1999/common-problems/

How reliable is the 1999 BMW 5 Series? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

1999 BMW 528i Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
1999 BMW 528i Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1999-bmw-528i/problems

Problem with your 1999 BMW 528i? Our list of 12 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 BMW 528i.

Other years of Bmw 525i

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