TexaZ3

Having just sold my 04' 530i less than 2 weeks ago, I realized that I miss the car too much and that I basically have 2 2-seaters now, and need at least one car with 4-seats..... So I'm looking to buy another E60, most likely a CPO 545i since I love that V8 in my 645Ci so much.

I need some advice on 545i in general - maladies, problems, etc.
This particular car I'm looking at has 48K miles on it, CPO through December 2010 and it is a 6/04 build date.
Sport, Premium, Logic 7.
If you guys can tell me what to look for, known problems to check, etc, I would really appreciate it!

Thanks
Alex

ecko_3420

Not an expert in it but there was a topic about the 545 having transmission problem...Thats the reason why i went with the 530...

Member545

I had that exact build date on my 545i, it had the 6 speed manual, so I don't know about about any steptronic issues. Car was great, no major issues.

TexaZ3

I thought transmission on 545i is the same as on 530i? No?

kscarrol

Had my 02/04 build 545 for 35k miles when I sold it, never had an issue. Don't recall any specific transmission related issues, but I think you're right, same tranny as the 530. Mnay of the issues with the '04's were software related, particularly those cars with NAV. My car did not have NAV and my experience was nearly flawless. Aside from things like creaking door seals and an emissions related recall, the only problem I had was my in-dash CD player died. Replaced under warranty.

Just spoke with the guy who bought my 545 and he's loving it six months later with no issues...

Brit_in_NJ

I just got an '05 545, has creaky door seals but aparently thats covered under waranty just not done yet, my transmission seems fine but there was a thread somewhere that talked about transmission issues. I believe there were some engine issues also with the 545.

So far I'm happy!

mhs525

Had my 05 545i for about 9 months. CPO, I swapped my M3 for it due to back problems I was having.

The motor ticks when the engine is cold but goes away fairly quickly. I had a transmission "slam" problem. It only happened twice in 9 months but has not happened since I had the software updated. A/C compressor has been replaced along with several window motors. The OEM run flats are garbage (severe tram lining). Running normal Michelin Pilots now.

Awesome acceleration with the V8, just love it. Love the active steering (almost crashed a loaner in the dealership because it had normal steering). Super handling with the sport and active suspension.

Great car but wouldn't touch one without a warranty...

skylolow

From when I did my research in buying my 545i this was about all I could really find with issues..........

1.) Auto tranny had a hard down shift when coming to a stop. They fixed that issue and doesn't seem like it was a wide spread problem or anything.

2.) Engine ticking. Once again not a widespread problem.

3.) Electrical issues (ieassenger air bag light) which was all repaired by mostly just software updates. So chances are any 545 out there your looking at aren't going to have any issues.

That is really it. Check the service history and make sure your not getting a shop whore. As with any BMW make sure there is no vibrations at any speed and in braking.

Chances are very good you'll get a 545 that will give you years of enjoyment with little to no service issues.

TexaZ3

Thanks guys, will check everything out.
If anyone has anything else to add - please do!

Thanks,
Alex

mrfva

I'm loving mine! *knock on wood* No major issues so far