supradreams

Hi there. I am really interested in buying a 2004 525i, and I was wondering what I need to know for the future, as for electrical problems, computer problems, and motor problems. Any input is welcome

AchtungE60

Don't buy a 525. At least buy the 530. 2004 and 2005 have an M54 engine. The 525 is about 184hp and the 530 is 230hp. I am not saying this just because I am not very far from you at all and selling my 530. I already have 3 other bimmers and I am telling you that you will regret it if you go with a 525. Make sure it has the sport package and premium package. I'm tooooo familiar with the M54 setup. I own an E46, E39 and E85 BMW and all have the M54 engine and almost all things identical.
As far as the E60 when you get above a 525 and 530 in 2004 and 2005 OR when you go with a 2006 and above you have to start looking at coolant reservoir and hoses, alternator, and a few other things. But I've never once had a single issue on any of my cars (well right now I'm replacing the expansion tank on the E46 325 due to a tiny pin-hole leak) and i can tell you first hand that it's an awesome engine and easy setup to work on. But don't go with a 525 because you're going to regret it.
As far as all things, rubber seals around windows, doors, bushings, control arms, ball joints....these are all items that one would need to inspect and/or replace otherwise you can get the domino effect around the car. Ask anyone here if they would feel comfortable buying my car.

And this is mine.........
https://5series.net/forums/topic/124...des-cold-pack/

efi-street

I am looking at possibly picking up a 2004 525i as well. Aside from the lack of power, any other reason to stay away from a 525? This car will primarily be to drive back and forth to work (100 miles a day). The lack of power doesn't bother me as I have a C6 Z06 that I drive when I want fun. I'm primarily looking for a good looking, well balanced sport sedan that will get (much) better gas mileage than my Z71 Chevy that I am driving to work right now while also being more comfortable for me and the other two people in my car pool.

nomis_nehc

Honestly, the price for 2004 525 and 530 is going to be rather negligible. The gas as well. With that said, if you're looking at 2004, definitely gun for at least 530.

AchtungE60

I remember reading that the 530 gets better gas mileage than the 525 overall. I will see if I can find this info

AchtungE60

2004 525 - http://www.carsdirec...4/bmw/525/specs
Fuel Economy City19.0 mpg
Fuel Economy Hwy28.0 mpg

2004 530 - http://www.carsdirec...4/bmw/530/specs

Fuel Economy City20.0 mpg
Fuel Economy Hwy30.0 mpg

jgt

I'm pretty sure it does. That's why I went with the 530i. Most power / best gas mileage.

spediegunz

Im not gonna knock anyone here with a 525 but i drove one after driving my 530 and its a completely different feel I'd advise anyone to just upgrade and spend the extra 500-1000 for the 530 and even take it a step better go for a new year if possible lots of features become standard after 06

balbs

I have an 06' 525...look for an 06' 530. LOL! However, I'm happy with my car. I'm not an agressive driver so the lack of power doesn't bother me. Either way, it still has enough power to pass other cars when you want.

BTW, as far as 04' models go. Don't they also have the microprocessor module in the spare tire area that's prone to potential flooding and shorting when it rains? I believe they relocated it to the side of the trunk in 05' +.

AchtungE60

You're talking about the MPM? Sure they do. I have one which I relocated under my drivers side taillight per the BMW Service Bulletin.