Guys, what is the lifetime of all the belts (alternator, AC belt etc) on a BMW 5 series? Or should I ask if these needs to be replaced at certain KM's?

 

I had mine replaced at 60k (5 years). I was having some other work done and it was just easy to get to.

I was amazed at how cracked my old belts were at just 60k, so I'm glad i had them done.

 

I can't say that I've found any official BMW guidance on this topic. Mike Miller (Old School Maintenance Schedule) recommends changing OEM BMW serpentine belts every 60K miles, and Bavarian Autosport's E60 maintenance schedule recommends an interval of 4 years or 60K miles.

I changed My E61's serpentine belt at ~47K miles (~6 years).

Your e60's M54 engine has two belts. Change instructions (text and pictures) are in the Bentley service manual. Keep the old belts for emergency use.

HTH,
Jim / crewzer

 

n62 engines change every 3yrs or 40k miles...trust me its worth the change. easy to do ha.

 

Does anyone uses OEM belts or only BMW?

 

In my humble opinion (which many disagree with), there's a list of low-cost stuff that you just might as well get from the dealer. There's always a risk of getting an off-brand part that won't last, and there's little to be gained by sourcing this stuff somewhere else. I'd guess that's particularly true for you, since you don't have access to multiple USA OEM sources. My list is something like this:

• Belts
  Filters (except cabin air - ridiculous prices and won't cause damage)
  Oil
  Antifreeze
  Gaskets, O-rings, other seals
  Vacuum hose
  Fuel hose
  Fuel hose clamps
  Fasteners, clips, etc.

There's endless debate about spark plugs, since the dealer charges over $20 each. Take your pick.

If you need camshaft/crankshaft position sensors, go to the dealer.