Used BMW 5 Series F10 Reliability Guide

The BMW 5 Series F10 (2010-2017) is a premium sedan that combines comfort, performance, and advanced technology. However, as with any used vehicle, there are certain points to be aware of before buying. Here is an engine-by-engine guide to help identify potential reliability issues.

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BMW 520d (N47 and B47 engines)

• N47 engine (2010-2014):

  • Timing chain problem : Located at the rear of the engine, it is difficult to access and expensive to replace. A rattling noise when cold is a sign of wear.

  • EGR valve and DPF fouling : Excessive urban use can cause them to become clogged, resulting in power loss and engine warning lights.

  • Injectors and turbochargers are fragile : Impeccable maintenance (regular oil changes with quality oil) is crucial to prolong their lifespan.

• B47 engine (2015-2017):

  • The timing chain is more robust than on the N47, but an audible check before purchase is still recommended.

  • Fewer turbo and injection problems, but maintenance remains key to avoiding long-term issues.

BMW 525d and 530d (N57 engine)

• Timing chain : Less prone to problems than on the N47, but some examples may show premature wear (watch out for abnormal noises).

• Turbo and injection system : Reliable if rigorously maintained, but a complete maintenance history is recommended.

• EGR valve and intake manifold : Fouling can be problematic, especially in the case of short and repeated journeys.

BMW 535d and 550d (N57 twin-turbo/triple-turbo engine)

• Overall engine reliability : Robust and efficient, but the twin-turbo and triple-turbo versions require rigorous maintenance to avoid overboost problems.

• Turbochargers : The presence of multiple turbochargers implies more expensive maintenance. Any loss of power or excessive smoke should be carefully investigated.

• Distribution : Less problematic than on the 4-cylinder engines, but a suspicious noise should prompt caution.

BMW 528i (N20 engine, 4-cylinder turbo)

• Timing chain : The N20 engine is known to experience premature timing chain failure. A noise when cold is a warning sign.

• High oil consumption : Many owners report excessive oil consumption, which can lead to mechanical risks if not monitored regularly.

• Questionable overall reliability : Between the fragile timing system and oil consumption, this engine should be avoided by a buyer looking for a durable 5 Series.

BMW 535i (N55 engine, 6-cylinder in-line turbo)

• High-pressure pump and injectors : Risk of failure which can cause misfires and loss of power.

• Turbo : Reliable but beware of wastegate actuators which can cause unwanted noises.

BMW 550i (N63 engine, twin-turbo V8)

• Very average reliability : This engine is known for its recurring problems, especially in the early years of production.

• Cylinder wear : Several cases have been recorded of pronounced cylinder wear (scratches in the Nikasil coating) rendering the entire engine block unusable.

• Very high oil consumption : Many examples suffer from high oil consumption, especially before the facelift (2014). This can be due to wear on the cylinders, piston rings, valve stem seals or turbochargers.

• Cooling problems : Risk of overheating, often due to premature wear parts such as hoses and radiators.

• Turbo and wastegates : Exhaust manifolds, wastegates and turbos are fragile, and repair costs are very high.

• Timing chain : Numerous cases of premature wear and breakage of the timing chain have been reported. This engine should be avoided for peace of mind when buying a used vehicle.

• High Pressure Fuel Pumps : Some cases of premature failure of HP pumps are regularly reported regarding these engines.

We therefore recommend that you avoid purchasing this engine, unless the previous owners have already carried out reliability work or the engine has been replaced.

Other points to check on the 5 Series F10

• ZF8 automatic gearbox : Very reliable, but a preventative oil change around 100,000 km is recommended.

• Suspension and silent blocks : Can wear out quickly on high mileage models.

• Electronic system : Some issues reported on the iDrive and certain options (electric seats, reversing cameras, sensors).

By following these recommendations, you can choose a reliable model and avoid unpleasant surprises. A complete service history is essential to ensure that the previous owner adhered to the maintenance intervals recommended by BMW.

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Which models do we recommend?

For petrol engines, we recommend the 535i for its driving pleasure and reliability. All diesel engines are reliable; we recommend the 525d/530d duo for their 6-cylinder engines and relative simplicity, or the 535d if you want more power, at the cost of greater complexity (twin-turbo engine).