2001 Bmw 525i problems
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.
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Common 2001 Bmw 525i problems
The BMW 525i 2001, equipped with a 2.5L straight-6 engine, is known for its reliability and the ease of finding replacement parts. However, there are common issues that owners have reported.
- Oil leaks: The most common source of oil leak in this engine is the cam cover seal. Oil drips down to the exhaust manifold and results in a burnt oil smell, especially when the engine first achieves operating temperature.
- Clicking noise: The clicking noise can be caused by worn valve guides or vanos problems. These issues are relatively easy to address for experienced BMW mechanics.
- Suspension: The self-leveling suspension system in the Touring e39 chassis can cause issues. The air chambers are only $450 to replace if the rear end starts to sag.
- Water pump, thermostat, radiator, alternator, and power steering pump: These components usually need to be replaced around 150,000 miles, give or take.
- Hose and line leaks: The high-performance e39 5 series engine can start to leak, especially in the power steering holes, oil valve cover, and other lines. Fluid deposits on the driveway, difficulty steering or handling, and misfires can indicate these issues.
- LCD Display / Computer Readout: The LCD display on the dashboard can drop pixels and turn into a jumbled mess of letters and numbers due to a faulty ribbon cable or the onboard computer.
- Thrush Arm Bushings: These rubber units, part of the suspension system, have been known to fail around 75,000 miles, causing loose steering and jittering when braking.
- Window Regulators: In high-mileage e39 5 series BMWs, it is common for the front and rear windows to stop working due to age and wear and tear.
These complex problems are best repaired by someone trained and experienced in BMW repairs. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of the BMW 525i 2001.
How reliable is the 525i?
My dad bought me a 1995 525i in dark red and so far it's been very reliable and solid. When the car was purchased it had 174,800 miles but I have put on more. Car starts up and runs like a champ even when it's 24 degrees outside! Engine has the right amount of power and is mechanically sound.
Is a 2001 BMW 5 Series a good car?
Yes indeed, the 5 Series is a wonderful car. If you can afford to buy one, we recommend that you do. Sure, there are other great cars out there in this price range; we just think this is one of the best.
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 fuel consumption of a 2001 BMW 525i?
BMW 525i 2001 Fuel consumption
| BMW 525i Model | Body Type | Fuel Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| 525i Executive | Sedan | 8.7L/100km |
| 525i Sport | Sedan | 9.1L/100km |
| 525i Sport | Sedan | 9.1L/100km |
What is the fuel consumption of a 2001 BMW 525i?
BMW 525i 2001 Fuel consumption
| BMW 525i Model | Body Type | Fuel Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| 525i Executive | Sedan | 8.7L/100km |
| 525i Sport | Sedan | 9.1L/100km |
| 525i Sport | Sedan | 9.1L/100km |
Is the 525i reliable?
My dad bought me a 1995 525i in dark red and so far it's been very reliable and solid. When the car was purchased it had 174,800 miles but I have put on more. Car starts up and runs like a champ even when it's 24 degrees outside! Engine has the right amount of power and is mechanically sound.
What series is a 2001 BMW 525i?
2001 BMW 5 Series
The 2001 BMW 5 Series comes in 3 different trims, ranging from the 525i Sedan 4D with a base MSRP of $3,881.00 to the 540i Sedan 4D with a base MSRP of $4,515.00.
Is BMW 525i a 5 Series?
Prices shown for the used 2006 BMW 5 Series Sedan 4D 525i with typical miles are what people paid to buy this vehicle or what people received when trading in this vehicle at a dealer.
2001 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Bmw 525i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2001 Bmw 525i complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Bmw 525i.
2020-10-28
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-23
- VIN: WBADT43481G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW IS USING THE RECALL TO FORCE PEOPLE BACK INTO THEIR SERVICE CENTER. EVEN WHEN A REPAIR ISN'T REQUIRED. THEN, THEY TELL YOU THAT THERE ARE 100 OTHER THINGS THAT ARE NEEDED ON YOUR VEHICLE. ATTACHED ARE THE SAMPLES OF THE DOCUMENTS. THIS BEHAVIOR IS FRAUDULENT AND DECEPTIVE. EVEN THOUGH THEY KNOW MY VEHICLE DOES NOT NEED THIS AIRBAG, THEY CONTINUE TO SEND ANNOYING LETTERS.
2020-03-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADT43431G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I DROVE THE CAR A MILE TO THE STORE AND A MILE BACK AND WHEN I WAS WALKING AWAY YOU COULD SEE A SPARK AND THEN A MINUTE LATER ANOTHER ONE AND ANOTHER UNTIL THEN THE CAR STARTED SMOKING AND WITHIN 4 MINUTES THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. MY SECURITY CAMERAS CAUGHT THE WHOLE THING ON TAPE. WE TRIED OUR BEST TO CONTAIN THE FIRE BUT IT TOOK THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO PUT IT OUT.
2020-02-19
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADS43441G
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. THE CONTACT STATED AFTER PARKING AND RETURNING TO THE VEHICLE, UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE DETECTED A BURNING ODOR AND FLAMES EXITING THE FRONT OF HOOD. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN OPENING THE HOOD HE SAW FIRE LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE RADIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED HE EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE WITH WATER HE HAD AVAILABLE. NO POLICE OR FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED HE WAS ABLE TO DISCONNECT WIRES FOR THE ELECTRICAL FAN AND CONTINUED DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CALLED NIELLO BMW ELK GROVE (8580 LAGUNA GROVE DR, ELK GROVE, CA 95757 (916) 687-9000) WERE MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THE DEALER INFORMED HIM THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER UNKNOWN RECALL FOR THE ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING IN 2002.THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
2020-02-18
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADS43441G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I HAD TAKEN A LONGER ROAD TRIP, AND WAS ON MY WAY BACK, ABOUT A QUARTER OF THE WAY WHEN WE STOPPED FOR DINNER. I PARKED, AND EVERYTHING WAS USUAL. A COUPLE MINUTES LATER, I WENT TO MOVE THE CAR, AND WHILE I WAS WAITING IN A DRIVE-THRU LINE, I SEE SMOKE BILLOWING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND I SMELL A BURNING SMELL. I PARKED THE CAR BACK WHERE IT HAD BEEN, AND, THINKING IT WAS A COOLANT ISSUE, OPENED THE HOOD TO LET THE ENGINE COOL DOWN, AND LEFT MY PASSENGERS WITH THE CAR AND WALKED ACROSS THE STREET TO BUY SOME COOLANT. WHEN I RETURNED, MY PASSENGERS TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD NOTICED A FLAME AT THE EXTREME FRONT OF THE ENGINE AND HAD TO DOUSE IT WITH WATER. I CHECKED, AND I SAW THAT THE WIRES LEADING TO THE AUXILIARY COOLING FAN IN FRONT OF THE RADIATOR HAD MELTED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE AND BURNED THE PLASTIC NEAR THEM (AS SEEN IN THE PICTURE). I THEN FOUND THE CONNECTOR FOR THOSE WIRES AND DISCONNECTED THEM SO THAT THEY COULD NOT RELIGHT. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM RESULTING FROM THE WIRES PULLING TOO MUCH POWER AND THUS MELTING THEMSELVES. THE PROBLEM WITH THE WIRES DID NOT SET OFF ANY WARNING OR CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS, AND DID NOT AFFECT THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE, AT LEAST AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. I ALSO FOUND OUT THAT THE BATTERY CAN RUN THIS FAN FOR UP TO 11 MINUTES AFTER THE ENGINE IS TURNED OFF, THUS BEING ABLE TO START A FIRE IN A GARAGE WHEN NO ONE IS AROUND. THIS PROBLEM IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS THE WHOLE CAR COULD GO UP IN FLAMES.
2019-06-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-22
- VIN: WBADT43481G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON AND OFF MANY TIMES. THERE ARE SEVERAL TIMES AFTER I EXIT THE HIGHWAY CAR SHAKED AND ALMOST CANNOT DRIVE. BUT AFTER SEVERAL HOURS OR PARK ONE DAY, IT CAN DRIVE AGAIN, WHEN IT CAN DRIVE, IT RUNS EXCELLENT. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT HAPPENED. IF I DRIVE A LONG DISTANCE, THE LIGHT TURN ON AGAIN. IT EVEN SLOW DOWN ON THE HIGHWAY. CURRENTLY IT CANNOT DRIVE. IT EVER STOPPED ON THE HIGHWAY 60TH NOGALES EXIT. TEMPERATURE LIGHT IS ON. I DRIVE IT OF THE HIGHWAY. AFTER I EXIT HIGHWAY, THE STEERING IS LOCKED.
2019-03-18
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-10
- VIN: WBADT43431G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLOW TO CHANGE GEARS INTERMITTENTLY. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH OVER A POTHOLE, THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITH FORCE. THE DRIVER WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE REMAINED PARKED AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT LATER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V015000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2017-11-20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADT43421G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: POSSIBLE BMW RECALL ISSUE (CAR SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE CAR OFF). CAR PURCHASED ON 11/8/17. ON 11/16/17, CAR WAS PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY WITH IGNITION OFF AFTER DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES. APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES LATER, DRIVER HEARD THE CAR ALARM GO OFF WHICH PROMPTED HIM TO GO OUTSIDE AND SAW FLAMES AND SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. DRIVER CALLED 911. CAR CONTINUED TO COMBUST SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE FIRE DEPT GOT TO OUR HOUSE. SEE PICTURES FOR DAMAGE. WE STILL HAVE THE BMW CAR IN QUESTION IN OUR DRIVEWAY.
2013-08-26
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADT334X1G
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, SHE SMELLED A BURNING ODOR EMITTING FROM THE RADIATOR. THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE BEGAN TO READ EXTREMELY HOT WITH THE ILLUMINATION OF THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR. ALSO, LIGHT GRAY SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 02V138000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND 01V206000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) BUT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN EITHER RECALL. THE REPAIRS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE CONSISTED OF THE REPLACEMENT OF THE WATER PUMP, VALVE COVER GASKET AND THE COOLANT PIPE. IN ADDITION, THE AUXILIARY FAN WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,990.
2013-08-26
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ENTERING A RESIDENTIAL PARKING GARAGE, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY AND ABRUPTLY AS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS LIGHTLY DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A WALL AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A FRACTURED JAW FROM THE AIR BAG STRIKING HER FACE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2010-11-29
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-10
- VIN: WBADT43441G
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE. AFTER TWO HOURS, THE CONTACT TURNED THE VEHICLE ON AND TOOK IT TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHERE HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE COOLING FAN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 166,000. UPDATED 01/14/11*LJ
2010-11-20
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-19
- VIN: WBADT434X1G
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: UPON ARRIVING HOME FROM 4 MILE ROUND TRIP LIGHT CITY TRAFFIC (25 MPH AVER SPEED), AND ENTERING BASE OF MY DRIVEWAY, MY WELL-SERVICED 2001 BMW 525I (60,000 MILES) SUDDENLY LOST POWER STEERING, ENGINE QUIT, BATTERY WARNING LIGHTING, AND "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" LIGHT CAME ON, AND LOUD CLANGING NOISE CAME FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. RESTARTED CAR TO PULL FROM STREET INTO MY DRIVEWAY AND SMOKE STARTING COMING OUT OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT. SHUT CAR OFF AND OPENED HOOD, SAW STEAM COMING OUT OF COOLING SYSTEM EXPANSION TANK WHICH HAD CRACKED. NO MORE THAN 2 MINUTES OCCURRED FROM TIME PROBLEM STARTED UNTIL ENGINE SHUT OFF. UPON INVESTIGATION, ALL BELTS WERE SHREDDED AND BELT PULLEY DISC HAD COME OFF AND WAS SITTING AT BOTTOM OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT. HAD CAR TOWED TO BMW DEALER NEXT DAY. ALTHOUGH NO INJURIES AND CAR IS COVERED BY WARRANTY, I AM REPORTING AS SAFETY PROBLEM AS DEALER SAID THAT PROBLEM COULD HAVE HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY, WHICH WOULD HAVE BEEN CATASTROPHIC WITH ENGINE SUDDENLY QUITTING AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING. DEALER SAYS THAT UNUSUAL THAT BELT PULLEY WOULD FAIL AND SIMULTANEOUS CRACK WOULD OCCUR IN COOLING EXPANSION TANK, ALTHOUGH WOULD SEEM LOGICAL TO ME THAT LOSS OF WATER PUMP FUNCTION WOULD CAUSE HEAT/PRESSURE BACK UP AND CAUSE TANK TO BLOW. DEALER SAYS PROBLEM IS DUE TO WEAR ON PULLEY ROTATOR, WHICH WOULD CAUSE WOBBLING OVER TIME. MY SAFETY CONCERN IS THAT THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING, CAR HAD BEEN RUNNING SMOOTHLY WITH NO INDICATION OF WOBBLING BELT (TOTAL SERVICE 3,000 MILES PRIOR) AND THIS WAS VERY SUDDEN. PULLEY SHOULD NOT COME OFF -- SOMEBODY COULD BE KILLED. NEW FAN WAS INSTALLED IN DEC 2001 PER RECALL. *TR
2009-12-28
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-19
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY USED 2001 BMW E39 525I TWO YRS AGO WITH MANY ISSUES AS EXPECTED WHEN I LEARNED IT WAS A "LEASE", PRIOR OWNER NEVER MAINTAINED THE VEHICLE. I BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE FOR MONTHS "AIRBAG" LIGHT ON. PAID FOR MONTHS HAVING IT RESET, THEN I FINALLY I STARTED A SEARCH TO LOCATE A "RECALL FOR AIRBAG MODULE" FOR THIS MODEL. I CALLED BMW NORTH AMERICA IMMEDIATELY THAT I'M THE NEW OWNER (THEY HAD NO RECORD OF WHO WAS THE OWNER) I WAS GIVEN DIRECTION HOW TO HANDLE, VEHICLE TAKEN TO A SERVICE CENTER, REPAIRED MADE. TWO MONTHS LATE, AIRBAG LIGHT ON AGAIN, PAID FOR ANOTHER DIAGNOSTIC, THIS TIME TO BE TOLD SOMETHING DIFFERENT, "STAGE 1-RESISTANCE TOO HIGH". WHAT IS THAT? I WAS TOLD THE AIRBAG AND IT'S COMPONENTS WERE TESTED, DID NOT FIND ANYTHING DEFECTED, CODE RESET, ALL OK BUT WAS TOLD IF AIRBAG LIGHT COME AGAIN, STRONG POSSIBILITY "DRIVER WHEEL AIRBAG" WILL NEED TO BE REPLACE WHICH IS UNUSUAL. THE NEXT DAY, THE LIGHT BACK ON. BACK TO THE SVC CENTER, TOLD IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, IF NOT, THE CHANCES ARE THE AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY. I'M QUITE UPSET. THAT EVENING OF 12/19/09, I STARTED SEARCHING, CAME ACROSS SEVERAL BLOGGING SITES ABOUT BMW AIRBAG. I CAME ACROSS 18 OWNERS WITH THE SAME MAKE,MODEL AND YR HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED BMW NORTH AMERICA WITH MY FINDING, THERE IS NO RECALL ON AND NOTHING THEY CAN DO UNLESS "SAFETY" IS INVOLVED. I EMPHASIZED MY CONCERN OF WHAT I HAVE READ AND WHAT I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE SVC TECH ABOUT NOT DEPLOYING. I NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE, WHAT ARE THE STEPS FOR NHTSA TO CONDUCT A INVESTIGATION ON THIS? I CONTACTED A REP WITH BMW NORTH AMERICA AGAIN 12/28/09, ANYTHING YOU CAN DO, REPLY, "NO". I FEEL THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER. I ASKING YOUR ASSISTANCE IF THERE ARE ANY RECORDS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OF OWNERS WITH THE IDENTICAL MODEL, MAKE AND YR THAT HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN A MVA AND THEIR DRIVER WHEEL AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY PROPERLY AND MAYBE WERE NOT AWARE OF A "FAULT ISSUE" IN THIS MODEL? *TR
2009-08-08
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-13
- VIN: WBADT33481G
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: ABS / DSC CONTROL UNIT FAILURE . TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT ON ALL THE TIME , STABILITY CONTROL IS INOPERABLE. *TR
2008-10-27
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-25
- VIN: WBADT33411G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING BRAKES WHEN WET, BRAKE PEDAL BECOMES VERY HARD TO PUSH. A SQUISHING SOUND CAN BE HEARD AS THE BRAKE IS APPLIED AND PEDAL MOVES TO THE FLOOR BOARD. ONLY HAPPENS WHEN BRAKE IS VERY WET (COMING OUT OF CARWASH, ALSO HAPPENED A NUMBER OF TIMES DURING A HARD RAIN.) TOOK A GREAT DEAL OF EFFORT TO PUSH DOWN ON BRAKE PEDAL AND BRING CAR TO A STOP. *TR
2007-10-31
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-01
- VIN: WBADT43451G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW 525I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING WHEN HE SHIFTED INTO DRIVE. HE HAD TO SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE IN ORDER FOR IT TO STOP. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. AS OF OCTOBER 31, 2007, THE DEALER HAD NOT REPAIRED THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000. UPDATED 11/15/07 *TR
2005-03-12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADT43431G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR FAILURE (OF A 525I BMW 2001) DUE TO THE ENTRANCE OF LEAVES AND DIRTY THROUGH THE COOLING HOSE OF THE ALTERNATOR AND GETTING INTO THE ELECTRICAL PARTS OF THE ALTERNATOR (IODES). THIS LEAD TO FIRE AND DAMAGE OF THE ALTERNATOR. THE HOSE IS APROXIMATELY 2.5 IN. AND IT DOESN'T HAVE ANY FILTER TO CLEAN THE AIR OR AVOID PARTICLES TO COME IN.
2004-08-27
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBADT43431G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH AND MAKING LEFT TURNING CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER THE SIDE OR FRONT DRIVER AIR BAG DEPLOYED. DRIVER SUSTAINED CHEST, SHOULDERS, AND ARM INJURIES FROM IMPACTING THE STEERING WHEEL. *AK
2003-08-09
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-10
- VIN: WBADT434X1G
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE 2001 BMW 525I. I WENT TO DEALER SERVICE SO MANY TIMES TO FIX MY PROBLEM CONCERN. THEY WON'T FIX IT AND SAID THAT "NO CUSTOMERS COMPLAINT DUPLICATED" ALL THE TIMES. AFTER DONE MY FIRST 15000 MILES SERVICE AT DEALER, "EML" LIGHTS CAME UP AND I SENT MY CAR TO DEALER IMMIDIATELY. THEY CHANGED "TROTTLE BODY" BECAUSE THEY SAID, IT'S BURNED. AFTER THAT REPAIR, MY CAR HAS ALIGNMENT, TROTTLE, ACCELATION AND TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. ALSO THEY REPLACE THE FAN BY RECALL. NOW MY CAR CONDITIONS ARE POOR. I PRESS THE GAS PEDDAL FOR ACCELATION, RPM'S GOING HIGH AND BIG IDLE SOUND I CAN HEAR. AND, OVER 80 DEGREE TEMP. BIG BIG IDLES. ALSO DECELATION IS NOT WORKING. SPEED WON'T REDUCE UNTIL I BRAKED. CAR RIDING QUALITY'S GETTING POOR AND POOR. SUSPENSION CAN'T ABSORB ROADS BUMPS. AT THE SAME TIME, I HEAR SO MANY CLICKING NOISE FROM DOOR FRAMES. IT FEELS LIKE WHERE I DRIVE AT OFF-ROAD. ALSO, I CHECKED ALIGNMENT BY MACHINE. IT WAS REALLY OFF-SET. THE CAMBER, CAST AND TOE WAS BAD. THEY PERFORM THE ALIGNMENT JOB. BUT STILL POOR. I SUFFER WITH THOSE PROBLEMS ABOUT A YEAR ALREADY. RECENTLY I FELT THAT STEERING WHEEL IS SHAKING AND I FELT A VIBRATION FROM FROM FLOOR OF DRIVER SIDE. ALSO BADLY, FRONT LOW HEAD BEAM IS TOO DIM AND NOT BLIGHTER THAN BEFORE. IT CAUSE, HARD TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. I THINK, MY CAR HAS ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, TROTTLE AND SOME JUNCTION PROBLEM FROM ENGINE THRU AXLE. TODAY I CATCH ANOTHER THING. WHEN I TURN ON THE ENGINE, I HEARD RUFFLE SOUND FROM BOTTOM OF ENGINE ROOM AND BIG ENGINE NOISE. PLEASE REVIEW MY COMPLIANT AND WHAT REALLY SHOULD DO?*AK
2002-09-23
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-02
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ODOMETER ON VEHICLE IS NOT READING SPEED CORRECTLY. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER WAS NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING.AK
2002-08-05
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
- VIN: WBADS43411G
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RE: BMW 525I WAGON WITH SPORTS PACKAGE. CASTER IN FRONT WHEELS PERMANENTLY MALADJUSTED SUCH THAT AT ABOUT 8,000MILES SEVERE CUPPING IS CAUSED ON INSIDE OF TIRE TREAD, RESULTING IN MAJOR ROAD NOISE AND POSSIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. ONLY FIX IS TO REPLACE TIRES. HAVE DONE SO TWICE. INFORMED BY KNOWLEDGABLE PERSONS THAT THIS IS A PROBLEM IN MANY OF THESE MODELS.
2001-03-07
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE CONSUMER PURCHASED VEHICLE BASED ON INFORMATION STATED IN BROCHURE THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INSTALLED WITH REAR SIDE AIRBAGS OPTION WHICH ALSO INCLUDED REAR HEAD PROTECTION AIRBAG, IT TURNS OUT ONLY THE SEDAN IS EQUIPPED WITH THE ADDITIONAL HEAD PROTECTION AIRBAG, OWNERS MANUAL INFORMATION IS NOT STATED PROPERLY. NLM
2001 Bmw 525i recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2001 Bmw 525i.
2019-01-14
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2000-2003 525i Sedan, 530i Sedan, 540i Sedan, 2001-2003 525i Sports Wagon and 540i Sports Wagon vehicles, and 2000-2004 X5 SAV 3.0i, X5 SAV 4.4i, and X5 SAV 4.6is vehicles. This recall affects certain vehicles where the original steering wheel has been replaced with the optional sports steering wheel. The sports steering wheel has a frontal air bag inflator that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the vehicle has been remedied. BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle for an optional sports steering wheel with an affected inflator. Dealers will replace the air bag module as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2003-10-24
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A MICROPROCESSOR IN THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE, WHICH ACTIVATES THE FRONT AIR BAGS, THE SIDE AIR BAGS, THE FRONT SEAT SAFETY BELT PRETENSIONERS, AND THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL, MAY HAVE A MALFUNCTION THAT COULD LEAD TO AN UNINTENDED ACTIVATION OF ONE OR MORE OF THESE COMPONENTS.
- Consequence: UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG(S) COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF AN OCCUPANT IS TOO CLOSE TO THE DEPLOYING AIR BAG(S). IN ADDITION, THE BATTERY SAFETY TERMINAL MAY ALSO BE ACTIVATED. IF THAT HAPPENS, THE STARTER CABLE WOULD BECOME DISCONNECTED FROM THE BATTERY, AND THE ENGINE COULD NOT BE RESTARTED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER10, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
2002-05-16
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. THIS IS A SUPPLEMENT TO A RECALL THAT BEGAN DURING SEPTEMBER 2001 (SEE RECALL CAMPAIGN 01V206). OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
2001-06-21
- Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ENGINE AUXILIARY/COOLING FAN OPERATION, INCLUDING VARIABLE SPEED, IS ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED. FAILURE OF THE FAN MOTOR CAN CAUSE THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY OF THE FAN CONTROL UNIT TO OVERLOAD AND FAIL, CAUSING THE FAN TO STOP OPERATING.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, ENGINE OVERHEATING AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE DAMAGE COULD RESULT. IN ADDITION, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE OF THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY TO CAUSE A FIRE IN THE FAN CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Bmw 525i problems:
2001 525i reliability
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1616281-2001-525i-reliability
Mar 6, 2011 ... Almost all the issues apply to Inline-6 engine cars too. (Thank you BMW - no V6's!!!) Now that you're read that; check for complete and up to ...
2001 BMW 525i Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2001-bmw-525i/problems
Top 2001 BMW 525i Problems · Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area · Front Tension Strut Bushings May Fail · Blower Final Stage Fan Resistor May Fail · Coolant Loss ...
BMW 5 Series Questions - Considering buying a '01 525i Wagon ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t39814_ds479718
Apr 30, 2010 ... The most common source of oil leak of this engine ... 2001 BMW 5 Series 525i Wagon RWD. -. Shopping ... Says no transmission or engine problems, ...
525i BIG problems! | BimmerFest BMW Forum
https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/525i-big-problems.521419/
Feb 20, 2011 ... Overheating a BMW E39 engine is the most common cause of blown head gaskets, cracked heads, warped blocks, cam seizures, contaminated main ...
Just bought a 2001 BMW 530i - any advice? : r/cars
https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/9hq7ud/just_bought_a_2001_bmw_530i_any_advice/
Sep 21, 2018 ... You can make pretty good use of BMW E46 forums for almost all engine-related issues on that E39. ... issues and it's a common problem on BMWs of ...
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