1997 Bmw 540ia problems
BMW M62 is a naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine which was produced from 1995 to 2005. A successor to the BMW M60, the M62 features an aluminium engine block and a single row timing chain.
In 1998, a Technical Update included VANOS (variable valve timing) for the intake camshafts.
The S62 engine is the BMW M high performance version of the M62, which was released in the E39 M5, BMW Z8, Ascari KZ1, and the Ascari A10.
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Common 1997 Bmw 540ia problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are common problems with the BMW 540iA 1997 based on complaints from owners:
- Instrument Cluster Issues: Owners have reported problems with the instrument cluster, including burnt pixels, which is a common issue in the E39 models. This can affect the readability of the display and may require repair or replacement.
- Transmission Fail Safe Mode: Complaints have been made about the transmission going into Fail Safe mode. This mode is activated when a fault is detected in the transmission system, leading to restricted gear shifts and other limitations to prevent further damage.
- Reliability Concerns: While the 540i is considered more reliable than the M5 due to its simpler mechanics, owning an older BMW like the 540i can still pose reliability challenges. Issues like check engine lights, catalytic converter problems, and burnt pixels in the instrument cluster are common.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Neglected maintenance by previous owners can lead to long-term issues. It is crucial to have the car inspected thoroughly before purchasing, ensuring that maintenance records are available to verify proper care.
- Electrical and Software Problems: Shift quality issues, harsh up or down shifts, improper shift points, and erratic shifting have been reported. These complaints may be related to electronic or software malfunctions in the transmission system.
These problems highlight the importance of thorough inspections, regular maintenance, and being aware of potential issues when owning a BMW 540iA 1997. Regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and proper care can help mitigate these common problems and ensure a smoother ownership experience.
Why won't my BMW 540i start?
The most common reasons a BMW 540i won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How do I know if my BMW starter is bad?
Engine does not turn over at all—or turns over but fails to start up (perhaps making loud noises). When nothing happens after turning on the key, or if it makes only intermittent clicking sounds instead of a full rotation of rotors inside the casing during startup attempts.
Why is my BMW hard to start?
Reason: A dead or discharged battery is a frequent culprit behind BMW starting issues. This situation often arises from prolonged periods of inactivity, leaving electronic components such as lights on, or the natural aging process of the vehicle's battery.
What are common starter problems?
A starter malfunction can have different causes: Electrical connections faulty. Solenoid switch (engaging relay) stiff or faulty. Electric motor damaged electrically.
1997 Bmw 540ia car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 540ia problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Bmw 540ia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Bmw 540ia complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Bmw 540ia.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-02
- VIN: WBADE6321VB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 540 BMW WITH 180,000 MI. INVESTIGATING THE CAUSE OF A FLAT DRIVER SIDE RIGHT FRONT TIRE I DISCOVERED THE FRONT SPRING STRUT PLATE WAS CRACKED AND ALLOWED ITSELF AND THE COIL SPRING TO CONTACT AND CUT DOWN THE TIRE. FOUND NHTSA CAMPAIGN # 04V183000 DESCRIBING EXACT CONDITION. TOWED TO DEVON HILL BMW IN PA. THEY WILL NOT PAY TO REPLACE SPRING STRUT PLATE. THEY STATE BMW DOES NOT SELL THE SPRING STRUT PLATE SEPARATE FROM THE STRUT AND SINCE I INSTALL AFTERMARKET BILSTIEN STRUTS AT 108,000 MI. WHICH REQUIRES THE INSTALLER TO USE THE EXISTING SPRING STRUT PLATE BMW IS NOT RESPONSIBLE. THERE IS ALSO A RECORD OF THE CAR BEING AT ANOTHER BMW DEALER AT 135,000 MILES WHERE THE REPAIR ORDER NOTES THE RECALL AND STATES THEY INSPECT STRUTS AND STATE NO FURTHER ACTION NEEDED. NO MENTION OF RETAINING CLIP INSTALLATION AS DESCRIBED IN THE REMEDY SECTION OF THE CAMPAIGN. I HAVE OWNED THE CAR SINCE 40,000 MI. I CALL BMW AND REFERRED ME BACK TO THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER WHICH HAS NOT CHANGED HIS POSITION. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-06
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1. BROUGHT MY CAR TO FIRESTONE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR IN LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA AND HAD THE THERMOSTAT REPLACED - WORK COMPLETED BY FIRESTONE - 2-5 DAYS LATER WENT TO BEVERLY HILLS BMW TO HAVE COOLANT RESEVOIR REPLACED WAS TOLD I NEEDED A NEW THERMOSTAT (JUST REPLACED AT FIRESTONE) AND WATER PUMP AND THAT I HAD A MAJOR ENGINE LEAK (LATER WAS TOLD I HAD A MINOR ENGINE LEAK NOT WORTH REPAIR AT THAT POINT) - HAD WATER PUMP REPLACED. - RECIEVED VEHICLE FROM BEVERLY HILLS BMW WITH THE ENGINE COVER REMOVED AND VEHICLE NOT CHECKED AS ASKED - THIS TOOK 3 WEEKS! 2. THE PROBLEM: WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH ON THE HWY 2 HOURS FROM MY HOUSE AN EXPLOSION OCCURED IN THE ENGINE BAY OF THE VEHICLE. 4 PEICES OF THE FAN HAD SHOT THROUGH THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE MAKING A LARGE 1 INCH SLIT ACCROS THE ENTIRE HOOD AND APPROX 1 INCH HOLE THE WHOLE LENGTH. ALMOST LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED! PULLED OVER TO FIND THAT MY FAN WAS COMPLETLY GONE (THE PLASTIC PARTS HAD COMPLETLY EXPLODED FROM THE FAN CLUTCH AND GONE THROUGH THE HOOD AND LOOK TO HAVE TORE MANY HOSES INSIDE THE ENGINE BAY) AND COOLANT WAS LEAKING OUT (MY COOLING SYSTEM HAD BEEN COMPLETLY REPLACED WHITIN THE LAST 4 WEEKS). 3. TOWED THE CAR TO HARLOFF BMW WHERE THEY SUSPECTED THAT BEVERLY HILLS BMW FORGOT TO TIGHTEN THE FAN WHEN THEY REMOVED IT FOR SERVICE TO THE WATER PUMP. BEVERLY HILLS BMW REFUSED TO SERVICE THE CAR AT HARLOFF BMW AND TOWED THE VEHICLE TO BEVERLY HILLS BMW WHERE I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT EVERYTHING WOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF AND NOT TO WORRY. WAS TOLD TODAY THAT THIS IS MY FAULT AND THAT THEY SAID MY FAN WAS GOING BAD (NOT TRUE - HAVE DOCUMENTATION TO PROVE THIS AND NOW THEY SEEM TO HAVE DOCUMENTATION TO SAY OTHERWISE FRAUD?). DAMAGE: THE HOOD, MANY INTERNAL ENGINE BAY PARTS I HAVE FOUND MANY OTHER CASES OF THIS. EITHER BMW IS NOT SERVICING THIS PART OR THAT THEY CUT SOME CORNERS IN DESIGNING THE ENGINE FAN THERE IS NO WAY THAT AN ENGINE FAN SHOULD EVER EXPLODE THROUGH THE ENGINE HOOD!!! *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-01
- VIN: WBADE632XVB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A FAULTY RADIATOR DESIGN (PLASTIC NECK?) CAUSED MY 97 BMW 540IA TO BREAK DOWN ON THE FREEWAY DURING RUSH HOUR. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- VIN: WBADE6323VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR/OVERFLOW TANK ON MY 1997 BMWS 540IA CRACKED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT AT 85,000 MILES. THE RADIATORS IN BMWS ARE KNOWN AS A WEAKNESS AND CONTINUALLY FAIL ON OWNERS. THIS SITUATION SHOULD BE REMEDIED!*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-01
- VIN: WBADE6328VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE RADIATOR HOSE CONNECTION AT THE TOP OF THE RADIATOR FAILED COMPLETELY. IT IS MADE OF PLASTIC, AND SPLIT UNDER COOL WEATHER CONDITIONS. THIS RESULTED IN REPLACEMENT OF ENTIRE RADIATOR, AND REPLACEMENT OF RADIATOR OVERFLOW CONTAINER. IT WOULD APPEAR THAT THE USE OF PLASTIC IN THIS APPLICATION RESULTED IN HEAT STRESS OVER TIME, EVENTUALLY RESULTING IN COMPLETE FAILURE WITHOUT WARNING. POSSIBLE ENGINE DAMAGE STILL BEING ASSESSED AT THIS TIME. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED TOO MANY CUSTOMERS, HOWEVER, THE FACTORY REPLACEMENT PARTS APPEAR TO BE EXACTLY THE SAME AS ORIGINAL. THEREFORE, I CAN EXPECT TOTAL COOLANT FAILURE AGAIN IN THE FUTURE. THIS SEEMS IMPRUDENT, AND I HAVE NO RESPONSE FROM BMW ON THIS ISSUE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-23
- VIN: WBADE6320VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR DEFECT -- PLASTIC NECK OF RADIATOR CONNECTING TO UPPER HOSE BROKE AT POINT OF CONNECTION WHILE AT MODERATE SPEED, SPRAYING COOLANT ONTO ENGINE AND WINDSHIELD AND CAUSING RISKS OF FIRE AND HAZARDOUS IMPAIRMENT OF VISABILITY. THIS DEFECT IS WELL KNOWN TO THE MANUFACTURER AND A RECALL SHOULD BE COMMENCED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-13
- VIN: WBADE6329VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 BMW 540IA RADIATOR FAILURE. UPPER HOSE CONNECTION CRACKED OFF UNEXPECTEDLY, CAUSING CATASTROPHIC DUMP OF ENGINE COOLANT. VEHICLE WAS IMMEDIATELY DISABLED.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-01
- VIN: WBADE6323VB
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER STATED IT WAS DUE TO THE PASSENGER SIDE WEIGHT SYSTEM. *NLM *SCC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-10
- VIN: WBADE6322VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AT THE PRECISE MOMENT I FULLY DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR TO PASS A SLOW-MOVING VEHICLE, CAUSING THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TO DOWN SHIFT, THE RADIATOR UPPER NECK BROKE OFF, CAUSING COMPLETE LOSS OF COOLANT. SIGNIFICANT STEAM WAS GENERATED FROM THE LEAK AND CAUSED A CLOUD BEHIND MY CAR THAT COULD HAVE BLOCKED THE VIEW OF A FOLLOWING VEHICLE. I WAS TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS WHICH MINIMIZED THE STEAM'S ABILITY TO BLOCK MY VIEW, BUT AT LOWER SPEEDS THE STEAM MAY HAVE COMPLETELY BLOCKED MY VIEW. CONSIDERING I WAS PASSING A VEHICLE, THERE WAS A RISK THAT IF MY VIEW WAS OBSTRUCTED, AN ACCIDENT WITH EITHER THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED OR ONCOMING TRAFFIC COULD HAVE RESULTED. I WAS STRANDED UNTIL MY TEMPORARY REPAIRS ALLOWED ME TO LIMP TO THE NEAREST REPAIR FACILITY. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A COMMON FAILURE MODE FOR THIS VEHICLE, AND REQUEST AN INVESTIGATION BE INITIATED.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-26
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBADE6328VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR AND COOLING SYSTEM FAILED ON MY 1997 BMW 540I. CAR QUICKLY OVERHEATED SEVERELY AND SHUT DOWN ON INTERSTATE 5 IN STOCKTON, CA WITH MY WIFE AND CHILD IN THE CAR. THE SYSTEM FAILED A SECOND TIME IN MARCH 2002. SAME OCCURANCE, RADIATOR AND COOLING SYSTEM FAILED ON HIGHWAY 580 IN TRACY, CA. CAR SHUT DOWN DUE TO FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-11-12
- VIN: WBADE4320VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, STEAM STARTED COMING FROM THE ENGINE, OBSTRUCTING CONSUMERS VISION. CONSUMER PULLED OVER AND CHECK UNDER THE HOOD, AND OBSERVED THAT THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE ENGINE AND THE RADIATOR HAD BROKE. THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED RADIATOR, AND INDICATED THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. TS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-14
- VIN: WBADE6321VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: UPPER RADIATOR NECK BROKE OFF FROM RADIATOR DURING NORMAL DRIVING. RADIATOR WAS REPLACED BY DEALER WITH IDENTICAL COMPONENT. I EXPECT THE RADIATOR WILL FAIL AGAIN WITHIN 80,000 MILES FROM TIME OF INCIDENT. CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE RADIATOR IS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS DUE TO OBSCURED VISION FROM STEAM, IMMEDIATE NEED TO STOP THE CAR TO PREVENT FURTHER ENGINE DAMAGE, ETC. DT
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Bmw 540ia problems:
E-39 540I common problems | BimmerFest BMW Forum
Jan 17, 2013 ... E-39 540I common problems · Behr cooling system leaking · Plastic DISA valve breaking & destroying the engine · Cluster pixel tape lifting · MID ...
1997 540i Reliability?
May 27, 2020 ... Run like hell from that car. There's nothing more expensive than a cheap BMW. ASE and BMW Master Certified Technician.
1997 BMW 540i Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1997 BMW 540i? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 BMW 540i.
common problems for 540i E39
Oct 10, 2005 ... radiator and expansion tank leaked, thermostat got stuck closed. clutch pedal was squicking so they changed the bearing. Bentley repair manual ...
Are these cars really that bad? I've daily'd 2 540i's for the past 10+ ...
Sep 30, 2022 ... When maintenance is required they just bash the car for wear and tear. I've become aware of the common issues on these e39. I personally love ...
Other years of Bmw 540ia
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