I will be replacing my 04 545 next year. Does anyone have any inside documentation that indicates that BMW will improve the quality of the E60 for MY 2008 or have already addressed these issues in MY 2007.

For me the pleasures of smooth power and exeptional handling are mitigated by:

1. Noisy door seals
2. Wind noise from the A pillars and moon roof
3. Rattles from the rear parcel shelf
4. creaks from the armrest
5. creaks from the leather around the shifter
6. rattles from the door locks
7. intermittent Actve Headlight failure

These are all a result of inadequate testing of parts, fit and finish. Surely they are working on these issues.

 

Your claims are legitimate and can be an annoying issue, but I think that valvtronic issues, SMG and other mechanical and technological issues (idrive) should be a concern, i.e., faster idrive with NAV and/or improvement of light sensors and options.

 

Besides my problems with BT, my car has been rock solid. I have had the brake pads replaced under warranty because they were squeeking upon application and my shark fin antenna died. But, I consider those rather minor problems.

 

If you look at the diffent BMW models and years of production you'll notice a constant evolution. Quality is always lowest the first year for the new model. Improvements are made in the second year. Then by the third year you'll see a big leap and minor improvements in QC until the vehicle is updated again.

 

For what it's worth, the test car 540i I had (an 06) did not have the problems you highlighted. I paid particular attention to rattles and squeeks and it was pretty good. I'll be ordering my 540i in 6 hrs time and I anticipate delivery of beautiful machine 3 months later...

 

Ofcourse the car was fine when it was new. 2000 miles in Europe in 2 1/2 weeks and rock solid. BUT LA city driving is a differnt ball game. The Rattles all started at about 15,000 miles.

 

My 2006 550i has not suffered with items 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 and only some wind noise from A pillar. I think these cars do evolve in quality. First model year cars are notorious for various glitches. They are so complex these days that it is almost a wonder that they ever get them right. If you want zero defects, get a Lexus. My 2004 LS430 is a wonder of quality control. My 550i, however, has performance and soul that no one else has been able to duplicate. I will take a few glitches in the bargain to have this supberb handling automobile.