Bmw 540it problems

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The BMW E39 is the fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series range of executive cars, which was manufactured from 1995 to 2004. It was launched in the sedan body style, with the station wagon body style (marketed as "Touring") introduced in 1996. The E39 was replaced by the E60 5 Series in 2003, however E39 Touring models remained in production until May 2004.

The proportion of chassis components using aluminium significantly increased for the E39, and it was the first 5 Series to use aluminium for all major components in the front suspension or any in the rear. It was also the first 5 Series where a four-cylinder diesel engine was available. Rack and pinion steering was used for four- and six-cylinder models, the first time that a 5 Series has used this steering system in significant volumes. Unlike its E34 predecessor and E60 successor, the E39 was not available with all-wheel drive.

The high performance E39 M5 sedan was introduced in 1998, powered by a 4.9 L (302 cu in) DOHC V8 engine. It was the first M5 model to be powered by a V8 engine.

photo of Bmw 540it car production

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Bmw 540it model years

bmw 540it 2000 photo
540it 2000
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Common Bmw 540it problems

The BMW 540i, a popular model in the 5-Series lineup, has been known to have several common issues based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most common problems:

  • Electrical Issues: One of the most frequently reported problems with the BMW 540i is electrical issues, which can be caused by disconnecting the battery or using illegal tyres, as seen in. These issues can affect various electrical systems, such as driver assistance, and may require calibration or a system reset to resolve.
  • Suspension and Alignment Problems: The 540i can experience suspension and alignment problems, often resulting from changing dampers without properly resetting the suspension. This can lead to issues with the steering and overall handling of the vehicle.
  • Oil Leaks and Cooling Issues: Some owners have reported oil leaks and cooling issues, which can be a concern for a 20-year-old car like the 540i. However, these problems can be mitigated with regular maintenance and timely repairs.
  • Tyre Issues: Tyre-related problems are common in the BMW 540i, particularly with the x-Drive model. The vehicle requires a maximum of 2mm difference in tread depth between tyres on the same axle and between the front and rear tyres. Failure to maintain this can lead to damage to the X-drive system.
  • Battery Problems: The 540i's battery can also cause issues, especially if it is not properly coded and reset after replacement. This can lead to problems with modern electrics and require a specialist to diagnose and resolve the issue.
  • Headlight Issues: Some owners have reported headlight issues, such as full disco mode when in the auto setting. This can be a safety concern and may require a visit to the dealer to fix.
  • Steering Issues: Creaking steering is another common problem reported by owners of the 540i. This can be a sign of wear and tear or a more serious issue that requires attention from a specialist.

In summary, the BMW 540i can experience various common problems, including electrical issues, suspension and alignment problems, oil leaks and cooling issues, tyre issues, battery problems, headlight issues, and steering issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

Bmw 540it

How reliable are E39 540i?

The E39 is relatively reliable, too, with the exception of a very few known maintenance issues (e.g., I had three replacement radiators over 10 years with my last 540).

Does the BMW 540i have a v8?

Reason number two guys 540 with the v8 it. Sounds almost like an exotic car it sounds very much identical. To the m5. Reason number three unlike the m5 this car does not have the Vino system which the

Is the BMW G30 reliable?

If I was in the market I certainly wouldn't worry about purchasing any G30 irrespective of year. If you get a MY17 cpo, make sure the dealer updates the istep level, if it hasn't been done within last 6 months or so. Many early G30 issues are resolved with software updates.

Is a 540i an E39?

Specifications for BMW 540i E39 286ps, (1996 - 2001)

8 Cyl. / 4 V per Cyl.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 540it years

We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 540it cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Bmw 540it model years:

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

Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 540it years

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

Bmw 540it car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Seat belts problems
  • Power train problems

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

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 540it . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 540it vehicles.

List of Bmw 540it complaints

Bmw 540it 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-09
  • Date Complaint: 2004-10-10
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: BOTH REAR SEAT BELTS HAVE FAILED. THE MECHANISMS HAS NOT ALLOWED THEM TO MOVE IN OR OUT, EFFECTIVELY MAKING THEM USELESS. THE FIRST WAS UNDER WARRANTY, BUT NO PARTS WERE IN STOCK AND WE DID NOT LEAVE THE CAR. ABOUT A MONTH LATER, THE OTHER SIDE BROKE. WE HAD NOT BEEN USING THE CAR AND FINALLY TOOK IT IN AND HAD TO LEAVE IT FOR TWO WEEKS TO GET PARTS AND HAVE THE SEAT BELTS REPLACED AT A COST > $500. *NM
Bmw 540it 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-09
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-15
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH VEHICLE VIBRATED FROM IN THE REAR. CONSUMER HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT REAR DRIVELINE FAILED. *AK

Recalls Bmw 540it

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Bmw 540it.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Bmw 540it 2000
  • Report Received Date: 2000-02-17
  • Manufacturer: BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE LAMPS IN THESE VEHICLES ARE CONTROLLED BY A SWITCH ACTIVATED BY THE MOVEMENT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS SWITCH COULD FAIL INTERNALLY, CAUSING IT TO REMAIN EITHER IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS ON" POSITION.
  • Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS EITHER WILL NOT OPERATE OR WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY ILLUMINATED, REGARDLESS OF BRAKE PEDAL POSITION.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE EXISTING BRAKE LAMP SWITCH WITH AN IMPROVED SWITCH.

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