Evenflow545

The 2004 is sort of a pain in the ass, but I can't see anything out there that's better. Imagine trying to haul ass in an Acura RL. Zzzzzzzzzzz. Makes me sleepy.

Busta

Go for the 06 530, It seems they have worked out most of the problems associated with 04's. Even with the minor problems I've had with my 04 I would not think twice about purchasing another BMW.

turnbowm

Mike,

As you probably now realize, the first model year for any new car can pose "teething" problems. The sheer number of problems that you've experienced, however, seems to make your car fit the "lemon" profile. You might want to discuss your displeasure and frustration with BMWNA, assuming that you've already discussed same with your dealer.

Certainly, moving from your 2004 525i to a 2006 530i would solve the performance issue..... going from 184hp to 255hp is a healthy jump! And, chances are, the 2006 would prove to be more trouble-free since this would be the third year of the E60 design.

For sheer reliability, however, it's hard to beat the Japanese cars. And from what others (professional reviewers, etc.) have indicated, the Infiniti M35 is nipping on the heels of BMW in the performance department. Only you can answer whether the M35 would provide the same driving experience as the 5-series.

As for me, the fresh, bold styling of the E60 caught my eye and after one test drive I knew that no other car would satisfy me. A 2005 530i now sits in the garage next to my wife's Lexus!

Good luck with the decision making.

TexaZ3

I know this may sound a bit harsh, but I think you expect too much of a car. 5 times in 15 months for minor repairs is not that big of a deal. Come on! I don't think you will find a perfect car for you if you are bothered by this. Lexuses also break down, but nothing really compares to BMW.

Ray Hull

Mike, With all due respect, I think if the worst you have to report is false seat signals and a glove box latch, I'd say you are ahead of the game and might want to consider the bigger picture. You (and I) have early production models of a car that was completely overhauled, at millions in expense, and actually suffered brutally at the hands of the design-conscious press. However, it is still leagues above the competition, as that same press will tell you. Everybody else is chasing the 5 series.

Sure, if you want better glove box latchworks and maybe seat sensors, you probably should consider the Japanese "competitors." But I would strongly suggest that you look at the larger picture and conisder things like road connectivity and overall DRIVING satisfaction. If you can't rationalize these major with minor things, then, yes, there probably ought to be a Toyota in your future.

Best wishes,
Ray Hull

JayJay

I dont want to go into too many details about problems ive had with my 5 but suffice to say they are more than a few dash lights and the such.

Im genuinely interested in what BMW changed between 2004 and 2005/6

Bedford530i

I too have a 2004 530i (04/2004 build) and feel that my car has been fairly reliable -- only been in service twice (once for recalls and another for the oil change). Aside from the occasional rattle everything so far has been good.

Bubblehead

I can relate to your concerns. I also had a 2004 and had so many problems that the dealer did a trade assist and put me in a 2005.

Unfortunately, that car was horrible. But BMW did get me into a 2006 530i. Great upgrade and the car has not had any significant problems. This has been my first BMW experience and I love driving the car. I would give the 2006 model a try. Good luck.

jet190rs

2004 was the 1st year of the E60, of course it would have problems. Every 1st year of every new car usually has problems.

If you can accept a few, if not no, problems, get a 2005 or 2006 E60.

If you can't accept any problems, get a Lexus.
(But not the 1st year of the new Lexus)

evh5150

iron is iron. Logic dictates that you are going to have x amount of problems on any brand on any given year. Just the way it is. I don't personally feel that it is fair to pick on the "first" year of any new offering. Luck and to a degree driving habits and the way you maintain are going to have some bearing as well! Just my 2 cents!