2003 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 2003 Bmw 525i problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2003 BMW 525i, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Noises: Owners have reported hearing unusual noises coming from the engine, which often indicate underlying issues. This problem could be related to various components such as the alternator, oxygen sensor, or valve cover gasket.
- Front Suspension Issues: Complaints include problems with the front suspension, particularly needing replacements like control arm bushings. This issue can affect the car's handling and comfort while driving.
- Oil Leaks: Some owners have experienced oil leaks, leading to the need to add oil more frequently. This could be caused by a faulty valve cover gasket, which is crucial for maintaining proper oil levels and preventing leaks.
- Maintenance Costs: High maintenance costs have been a significant concern for owners of the 2003 BMW 525i. The need for frequent repairs and replacements, along with associated labor costs, has led to financial strain for some owners.
- Cooling System Problems: Issues with the cooling system, including coolant leaks or overheating, have been reported by some owners. Proper maintenance of the cooling system is essential to prevent engine damage and ensure optimal performance.
- Transmission Issues: Complaints about transmission problems, such as rough shifting or slipping gears, have been raised by owners. Addressing transmission issues promptly is crucial to avoid further damage and ensure safe driving.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Some owners have faced electrical system malfunctions, which can manifest as issues with lights, sensors, or other electronic components. These problems can be challenging to diagnose and repair effectively.
By addressing these common problems promptly and proactively maintaining the 2003 BMW 525i, owners can mitigate potential issues and ensure the longevity and performance of their vehicle.
What type of engine does a 2003 BMW 525i have?
2.5 L 6-cylinder2003 BMW 525i / Engine
Under the Hood
The 525i uses a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, which teams with either a five-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission.
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 engine is in a 525i?
The 525i was the most popular E34 model globally with 434,549 units produced. As per the 520i, the 525i initially used the M20 engine, which was replaced by the M50 engine in 1990. Engine volume and year of manufacture often influenced the type of wiring.
What is the problem with the gearbox on a BMW 5 Series?
Some 5 Series owners have reported issues with the automatic gearbox, including jerking, clunking and sudden drops in speed. Many automatic transmissions are jerky, so this symptom doesn't necessarily indicate a fault, but clunking noises and changes in performance should be investigated.
How reliable is a BMW 525i?
BMW 525i Ratings Overview
The average rating is a 4.2 out of 5 stars.
What is the fuel consumption of BMW 525i?
Find and Compare Cars
| 2007 BMW 525i | |
|---|---|
| Personalize Find a car | 6 cyl, 3.0 L, Manual 6-spd Compare |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 21 combined city/highway MPG 18 city 28 highway 4.8 gals/100 miles |
What engine is in a 525i?
The 525i was the most popular E34 model globally with 434,549 units produced. As per the 520i, the 525i initially used the M20 engine, which was replaced by the M50 engine in 1990. Engine volume and year of manufacture often influenced the type of wiring.
What is the problem with the gearbox on a BMW 5 Series?
Some 5 Series owners have reported issues with the automatic gearbox, including jerking, clunking and sudden drops in speed. Many automatic transmissions are jerky, so this symptom doesn't necessarily indicate a fault, but clunking noises and changes in performance should be investigated.
2003 Bmw 525i complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Bmw 525i.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2003 Bmw 525i recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Bmw 525i.
- 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.
- 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 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i, and 330xi Sedans, and 325xi and 325i Sportswagons, 2002-2006 330Ci, 325Ci, and M3 Convertibles and 325i, 330i, and M3 Coupes, 2002-2003 M5, 540i, 525i Sedan, and 530i Sedans, and 540i and 525i Sportswagons, and 2003 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity Vehicles. Please note that the 5-series and X5 vehicles are only included if they are equipped with the optional sports steering wheel. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with 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 replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began Aug 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-348 in its entirety. Additionally, vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Note: On December 17, 2015 BMW removed the model year 2004 X5 3.0i and 4.4i Sports Activity vehicle from this recall. Those vehicles were mistakenly identified as including the air bags that are subject to this recall.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Bmw 525i problems:
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Other years of Bmw 525i
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