Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your BMW 530i
BMW 530i Models:
BMW 530i Problems
Burning Smell or Oil Drips on the Ground Due to Engine Oil Leak
Valve cover gasket leaks are common after 60,000 miles. Symptoms will include oil drips under the vehicle and burning oil smell from the engine compartment.
Loosness in the Front Suspension Due to Worn Tension Strut Bushings
The front thrust rod bushings—also referred to as tension strut bushings—are known to fail occasionally. The oil-filled rubber mounts weaken and crack over time, causing a mushy road feel and shuddering in the steering wheel when going over bumps. These worn bushings should be replaced.
Blower Final Stage Fan Resistor May Fail
The blower final stage fan resistor is known to fail. Symptoms are the heater fan speed varies regardless of the setting, the fan will not turn off when the car is switched off, or the fan will not switch on at all.
Loss of Power Steering Fluid Due to Leaking Hoses
A fluid leak may develop from one or more power steering hose. When a leak is being repaired, it is not uncommon for multiple hoses to be replaced.
Coolant Leak From Radiator
It is not uncommon for the radiator to develop a coolant leak. A leaking radiator will require replacement. When a leaking radiator is replaced the entire cooling system should be inspected and if any additional leaks are found they should be repaired also.
Overheating can cause severe engine damage. If the engine begins to overheat it is recommended to stop at the first available location and have your vehicle towed to ...
BMW 530i Recalls (Recent)
Seat Back Side Bolster Heating Element May Be Damaged
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Excessive wear may develop on the side bolsters of the seat backrest. As a result the seat heater mat located in this area may be damaged. If such damage were to occur, with the system turned on, the occupant may feel excessive heat from the area. The heating element may damage or melt a small hole in this damaged area of the seat cover. If this happened, it could lead to the seat occupant being burned. Dealers will modify the seat heating circuit to correct this concern. This recall is expected to begin during December of 2004.
Learn more »BMW 545i Recall 05V504000
Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARKING PAWL GUIDE PLATE.
Learn more »The Engine May Stall and/or Not Start
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The digital management control (EMC) unit may not have produced according to specification. The engine may stall and not restart. As a result, a loss of power steering, and after repeated actuation of the brake pedal, a loss of brake power assist will occur. These conditions could result in a vehicle crash. Dealers will install a new (EMC) unit to correct this issue. This recall began on July 16, 2004.
Learn more »Control Arm May Not Be Tight
RepairPal Expert Overview:
On 40 vehicles, the nuts securing the front control arm and tension strut to the wheel hub were not tightened to specification and could loosen over time. If the nuts loosen, vehicle handling and control could be compromised increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will tighten the front control arm and tension strut nuts to the correct specifications. The recall began June 28, 2006.
Learn more »Rear Shock Absorber May Not Be Secure
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The lower rubber mount for the rear shock absorber may not have been manufactured properly and may not adhere to the housing. If separates, the driver will experience impaired handling and control of the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the rear shock absorber. Ther recall began September 13, 2006.
Learn more »BMW 530i Questions and Answers
Recently I've noticed my shift tower getting "warm" to the touch while driving. Any ideas as to why? Thank you in advance,
Dan
I Can't Find Where To Pour Transmission Fluid
looking for the kill switch,doesnt get feul
What kind of oil should I put in a 1994 BMW 530i. I live in San Diego and the temp. is 70degrees F.
I NEED TO KNOW WHAT TYPE OF SYNTHETIC OIL DOES MY 1994 530i NEED AND HOW MANY QUARTS?
BMW 530i Stories
I've had this car almost 10 years - and 116,000 wonderful miles. Have had minimal problems until this year when we had to replace the alternator and now there is an issue with the crankcase vent valve. Fortunately I gave up on dealer maintenance a long time ago and have a reliable mechanic who charges fair prices - not the gouging that goes on at BMW dealers. I followed some good advice when we bought it and have had oil and filter changes every 7500 miles. Sadly, though we will be moving on - but I'll miss my baby - truly the ultimate driving machine.
Cons are definitely the cup holders (BMW doesn't like you to eat or drink in their cars) and the regular headlights - wished I'd ponied up for the xenon headlights.
I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH STEERING ACTIVATION WARNING IF I START ON THE CAR ITS WARNING BUT AFTAR I DRIVE THE IT FOR 200 OR 300 METERS THE WARNING IS GONE BUT IF I TURN THE CAR OFF AND START THE ENGINE THIS PROBLEM COME AGAIN.
BMWs are cars to be leased only. Power seats, a/c blower, p/s hoses,
windshield washer pump, front shocks, crankcase vent valve, headlights adjusting mechanism, cup holders, are of poor quality. They sell because have tight ride, great steering,solid feeling, excellent braking, and timeless design. But they are not reliable.
Infinity G37,and Cadillac CTS, are to be considered when thinking about a 530.
I love my car it stills looks brand new but since 89,000 milies parts are going bad, which costs an arm and a leg. If you can afford the repair at the dealer than buy one, but if you can't afford repair bills of 1000 or more a shot, stay away. I had no problems with this car until it hit 89,000 milies, so I would say its a great car.
Purchased the car new, only owner, wifes car and she's no Formula driver. Transmission went south at 63k miles, out of warranty. Dealer agreed to replace with a new trans if we paid for labor ($2500.) vs $6000. otherwise as BMW does not rebuild trannies, and a very reputable transmission fellow I know says he has a very difficult time getting parts for repair. Paid the labor fee, repaired the tranny and have garaged the vehicle since 2006, driving it sparingly. Bought a Lexus.
BMW alternator went south last year and now there is an issue with the air/heating system. Blower/fan will not operate.
The money drain continues.
Bought