Used Car Checklists

Used BMW 5 Series: Inspection checklist

Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 330 complaints across these 6 years; the 2018 drew the most.

BMW 5 Series

Choose a model year

Problems that follow the 5 Series from year to year

Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.

Area201820192020202120222023Total
Airbags3472245
Electrical1910433
Transmission510217

5 Series generations and updates

First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.

  1. Seventh generation

    2017–2023

    2020 update: Minor cosmetic updates; Improved hybrid capabilities

Mileages where 5 Series problems start

From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.

Typical mileageProblemYear
40,000–60,000 milesCoolant and oil filter housing leaks2019
50,000–70,000 milesOil filter housing coolant leak2018

Every 5 Series recall to confirm

26 recalls cover the 5 Seriesyears on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 8 campaigns span more than one model year. One told owners not to drive or to park outside until repaired.

Show 16 more recalls

Cars shoppers compare with the 5 Series

Before you shortlist a 5 Series