Hello everyone, I'm thinking of picking up a used 05 545i with close to 100k miles. So I wanted to know what are the common known issues related to these cars.

The search button has served me well but too many scatter threads about different things just to get some simply answer to what I'm looking for. So could you guys list some of the common problems seen with the 05 545i or any other things I might have to be ready to replace/repair coming to 100K plus miles.

TIA

 

In no particular order:

1. Valve cover leaks starting at about 60k miles (most all BMW models).
2. Oil pressure switch oil leak.
3. Alternator mounting bracket oil leak.
4. Infamouse coolant transfer pipe o-ring failure.
5. Power module melt-down in trunk.
6. Broken wires in trunk lid wiring harness (from fatigue).
7. Auto tranny Mechatronics (and fluid leaks).
8. Suspension component wear (all BMW's).
9. Brittle plastic air, coolant components. (i.e. the coolant y-pipe under intake manifold, front).
10. Electronic thermostat failure.
11. Radiator failure.
12. Ok, tired of typing.....

 

Ok I have mine 05, 545 four months now with 94500 miles and had no problems except clutch replacement. If you buy manual
With this mileage and it was not replaced most likely you need to do it and spend around $2500. And there might be other problems like engine leeks, suspension components, etc, I think that every car being MB, BMW or Ferrari after 100k starts having problems and you have to expect to spend $$$ on it.

 

I have an 04 545i on about 135k miles on it and ive changed the upper radiator hose because with over time it breaks and starts leaking its no more than $70 and you can do it yourself. Also you might get a annoying squeal sound from the brakes in the rear and it is the brake sensor which the dealers can fix for you, I think they do something like sharpen the brake sensor for you at no extra cost. Other than that its just your oil changes with the recommended castrol oil which I always have the dealer replace. also all other oils such as brake fluids, power steering, ETC any maintenance. And right now I just got an Increased Emmisions! error message on the Idrive and I still havent had time to check this out yet.
But the car is still running strong!!

 

12. vacuum pump leaks
13. plastic in headlights yellow (all)
14.passenger seat sensor for air bag (all 2004-2005?)
15. Water pump leaks
16. hunting idle issues
17.weather striping around front and rear windshield dry rots (all)
18. tires wear out average 8-15 k miles (sport suspension cars)
19.Factory pads blacken wheels in less than two blocks (all)
20. overflow tank cracks

21. boy I can't think too quickly today, there is a pretty long list.

 

+1 so what that tells you? You need to buy a car with all service records and maintenance records at least take the Vin and go to dealer and ask for the print out that way you know what you buying!

 

22. Alternator
23. brake booster if recall on vacuum line check valve hasn't been done

 

Idrive failure....big bucks

 

Thanks guys for the replies, but after seeing the extended list of things I might encounter, I'm going to think more thoroughly about the car.

 

I'd think twice, unless you can get an iron-clad parts and service warranty. Costs of repair will eat you alive. While my 05 545 with 94K iles still drives great, it's costing me thousands to keep it on the road right now.