Bmw 540iat problems

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The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972, succeeding the New Class Sedans, and currently in its eight generation.

The 5 Series was initially available as a sedan, with a wagon/estate body style (marketed as "Touring") added in 1991 and a 5-door fastback configuration (marketed as "Gran Turismo") available from 2009 to 2017. Each successive generation carries a distinct internal E- designation.

The first generation of 5 Series was powered by naturally aspirated four-cylinder and six-cylinder petrol engines. Following generations have been powered by four-cylinder, six-cylinder, V8 and V10 engines that are either naturally aspirated or turbocharged. Since 1982, diesel engines have been included in the 5 Series range.

The 5 Series is BMW's second-best-selling model after the 3 Series. On 29 January 2008, the 5 millionth 5 Series was manufactured, a 530d sedan in Carbon Black Metallic.

BMW's three-digit model naming convention began with the first 5 Series, thus the 5 Series was BMW's first model line to use "Series" in the name.

Since the E28, all generations of 5 Series have included an "M" model, called the BMW M5.

photo of Bmw 540iat car production

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Bmw 540iat model years

bmw 540iat 2000 photo
540iat 2000
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bmw 540iat 1999 photo
540iat 1999
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Common Bmw 540iat problems

Based on the information gathered from owners of BMW 540iAT cars, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  1. Timing Chain Guides: The timing chain guides are a known weak point in the M62tu engine of the BMW 540i. Issues arise due to lax oil change schedules, subpar oil, and weak chain tensioners. Neglecting maintenance in this area can lead to significant engine problems.
  2. Timing Cover/Front Crank Seals: Over time, the timing cover and front crank seals are prone to leaking. This can result in oil leaks, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to more severe engine issues. It is recommended to inspect these areas for any signs of fresh oil deposits.
  3. Cooling System: Problems with the cooling system, including issues with the radiator, water pump, and related components, have been reported. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the cooling system are crucial to prevent overheating and potential engine damage.
  4. Suspension Components: Owners have highlighted problems with suspension components such as control arms, ball joints, shocks, and sway bar links. Wear and tear on these parts can affect the handling and ride quality of the vehicle, necessitating timely replacements.
  5. Gaskets: Gasket failures, particularly the gasket connecting the oil filter housing to the engine block, have been noted. Addressing gasket issues promptly is essential to prevent oil leaks and maintain the proper functioning of the engine.
  6. ABS System: Complaints regarding the ABS module and sensors have been raised. Malfunctions in the ABS system can compromise braking performance and overall safety. Regular inspections and maintenance of the ABS components are recommended.
  7. Steering: Steering-related problems, including issues with the steering mechanism, have been reported. Proper maintenance of the steering system is crucial for safe and responsive handling of the vehicle.
  8. Battery: Battery-related issues have been mentioned by owners. Ensuring the battery is in good condition and properly maintained is essential for the electrical system to function correctly.

By addressing these common problems proactively and ensuring regular maintenance and inspections, BMW 540iAT owners can mitigate potential issues and enjoy a more reliable driving experience.

Bmw 540iat

What is the most common problem with the BMW 5 Series?

What's wrong with the BMW 5 Series?

  • Airbag leaks.
  • Faulty air lines.
  • Loose or broken electrical connections.
  • Broken compressor.
  • Malfunctioning ride height sensor.
  • Faulty control module.

Are BMW 540i expensive to maintain?

The annual maintenance cost of a BMW 540i is $798.

Is the BMW 5 series reliable?

Our latest reliability data shows petrol 5 Series models in a good light; they finished in second place out of 24 cars with a 97.2% record. Diesel variants scored an excellent 91.8% and the 530e PHEV 89%.

Is the BMW G30 B58 reliable?

Is the BMW B58 Engine Reliable? The short answer is yes. When maintained correctly and frequently with high-quality parts, the B58 is a very reliable engine - especially compared to older BMW straight-six engines like the N54 and N55.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 540iat years

We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 540iat cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Bmw 540iat model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 540iat model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 540iat years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Bmw 540iat car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 540iat , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 540iat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 540iat . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 540iat vehicles.

List of Bmw 540iat complaints

Bmw 540iat 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-04-02
  • Date Complaint: 2005-05-06
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: RADIATOR FAILURE AT 42K MILES. AFTER READING SIGNIFICANT ARTICLES RELATED TO BMW E39 RADIATOR FAILURES, MINE FOLLOWED SUIT. THERE ARE COUNTLESS INSTANCES OF THE V8 MODELS SHOWING A CONSISTENT PATTERN OF RADIATOR FAILURES WHICH OFTEN ARE CATASTROPHIC AND LIFE THREATENING.
Bmw 540iat 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-18
  • Date Complaint: 2004-05-20
  • VIN: WBADN6336XG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CHECK COOLANT LEVEL LIGHT COMES ON. RADIATOR LEAKS, ALMOST OVER HEATED AND LEFT ME STRANDED. PART REPLACED AT OWNERS EXPENSE. STILL HAVE OLD RADIATOR. *AK
Bmw 540iat 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-10
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-17
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: COMPLETE ABS FAILURE WHILE TRAVELING AT SPEEDS. THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONTROLLED EACH WHEEL DIFFERENTLY AT DIFFERENT TIMES, CAUSING THE CAR TO BUCK WILDLY AT HIGHWAY SAFE SPEEDS. WHILE BRAKING, THE CONTROLLER WENT BAD (WAS REPORTED TO DEALER PREVIOUSLY AND TOLD IT WAS THE BRAKE PADS - CHANGED AND STILL HAD ISSUE) , LOCKED UP THE REAR WHEELS, CAUSED SLIDING CONDITION IN TRAFFIC, NEARLY COLLIDING WITH OTHER CARS AND UNDERPASS BARRICADE. THIS HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIME AND HAS BEEN REPORTED TO DEALER (NONE AT SPEEDS - 10 MPH OR UNDER - CONTROLLABLE AT THOSE SPEEDS). *NM
Bmw 540iat 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-10-30
  • Date Complaint: 2003-11-10
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: RADIATOR FAILURE ON 1999 540 TOURING - DISABLES THE VEHICLE NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE FROM RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC WHERE THE PANIC COULD ENDANGER OTHER DRIVERS, TO THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IN THE DEAD OF WINTER BY YOURSELF. *AK - STEAM FROM FAILED RADIATOR BLOCKS VISION OF THE ROAD, OR WHATEVER ELSE IS IN THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT CORNER OF THE VEHICLE. - FAILURE CAN NOT BE PREDICTED BY VISUAL INSPECTION OF THE RADIATOR.
Bmw 540iat 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2001-02-14
  • VIN: WBADR6349XG
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I HAVE EXPERIENCED AN OCCASIONAL HARD DOWNSHIFT OR CLUNK WHEN SLOWING MY VEHICLE AND THEN BRISKLY ACCELERATING. THIS IS VERY SIMILAR TO THE PROBLEM REPORTED IN SERVICE BULLETIN NUMBER 240300.*AK

Recalls Bmw 540iat

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Bmw 540iat.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Bmw 540iat 1999
  • Report Received Date: 1999-01-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5HP24 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. PREMATURE WEAR OF THE RING GEAR CAN OCCUR, LEADING TO THE LOSS OF 1ST, 2ND, 3RD, AND REVERSE GEARS.
  • Consequence: IF THIS PROBLEM OCCURS, THE CAR MAY NO LONGER OPERATE IN REVERSE, 1ST, 2ND, OR 3RD GEARS.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
  • Model: Bmw 540iat 1999
  • Report Received Date: 1999-01-04
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE THICKNESS OF THE MAIN POSITIVE ELECTRICAL CABLE (GENERATOR TO STARTER) INSULATION IS LESS THAN SPECIFIED, MAKING IT SUSCEPTIBLE TO BEING ABRADED OR CUT BY THE CLIP THAT SECURES THE CABLE TO THE GENERATOR.
  • Consequence: THE CABLE INSULATION CAN BE WORN AWAY, EXPOSING THE WIRE. THE WIRE COULD CONTACT THE CLIP OR A SHORT CIRCUIT COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL APPLY A THICKNESS OF INSULATING TAPE TO THE CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE CLIP, AND INSTALL A REVISED CLIP.

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