rocksteady530

So currently I own a '04 530i with 150K on her. I have done most of the work on it - WP -Thermostat - CCV- etc. etc all the stuff that I have seen report here that tend to go on this MY. The M54 is surprisingly easy to work on.

I want to jump to the '06 530i which I think has the N52 (Code N52B30 ) engine. For those that have the '06 year model - is it worth upgrading to? Are there any major difference other than the engine? Also what is the reliability like for that year? Any major issues with Engine/Tranny?

Just looking for some thoughts on the move I would like to make.

Thanks

pjinca

Not sure it is worth it to be honest. There is an additional 30 HP (225 in the M54 vs. 255 in the N52), but other than that they are typically spec'ed out with about the same options. Also, the only issue I have seen more often with the N52 than with the M54 is the starter needing to be replaced. I recently made the switch fro a 2005 530 to a 2008 550 and I am LOVING it!!!

Cattani

If you're going to stick with the e60's and want to upgrade, go with a 550i.

rocksteady530

Are there any known issues with the 550i?

pjinca

The only known issues are the oil leaks, but if you do the work yourself then the cost is minimal since almost all the leaks are from failed gaskets and seals that range from $4 to $100 for the Valve cover set. Other than that the N62 appears to be pretty solid. Just don't count on anywhere near as much room to work.

KLR4LIFE

Also remember if you are using the car as a daliy driver you may not want the 550i because of the not so good gas mileage. You may want to get the 535i instead and you still get great power and better gas mileage. You can also get the JB4 and get the same power as a 550i. I love my 550i and perfer it over the 535i, the V8 is a beast!

leese8080

Agreed with other members' thought process and their position.

In my opinion, the cost outweighs the benefits of moving from an 04' 530 to an 06' 530. The additional 30hp or ~13.3% gain in hp is hard to justify the transaction cost that will be incurred. (ex: paying taxes/registration on the new E60, some loss on the registration already paid, the time to sell and buy, and etc). I believe that other than the engine and the stock wheels(?), all else are equal between the two years' 530s.

As others have indicated above, perhaps consider a different engine assuming that your triggering event is to have more power?

rocksteady530

I didn't know there was a 535i for '06.

rocksteady530

Thanks for the feedback guys - I will take a look at the 535i

KLR4LIFE

I believe the 535i started with a 2008 model.