5erNewbie

Hi Everyone. I am new to the UK and 5-Series even though I have been a fan of them since the 1980s. So, I am now in the market for a 5-er that will accommodate my wife and I and our 2 kids (1 yr and 3 yr olds). A 3-series was too small and 7-series too big. So, I am settling on a 5-er for £9-10K. I have found a few. Please give me your input on the following:

- any trends with the 04/05 model year that I should look out for?
- I can pickup a 530d with 55k miles for about £9500 or a 530iSE with same mileage for same price. I like sports steering wheel, electric seats and wood trim as my preferential options.
- Is it easy to add SatNav? I think I saw a BMW E39 SatNav box to install in the boot/trunk for £199. Is it just lock and load?
- Any feedback on this year car would be much appreciated.

Krisbiker2

Hi, E39 sat nav is a no go. Two types of Sat nav have been fitted to E60- business and pro, to have pro retro fitted and programmed in costs in the region of £1400 inc parts, business would be cheaper but still quite costly. Try to buy car with if you can- I'm selling mine in about 3 weeks if you inteasted- its a 03 530i running on LPG- does approx equivalent of 55mpg. Also you may be able to register it congestion free for £10 per year. Good luck in finding a car- you will definately love it watever you end up getting.