2000 BMW 528i

The 2000 BMW 528i is a popular luxury sedan from the E39 generation, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and classic BMW styling. The most common engine option for this model year is the 2.8-liter inline-six M52TU engine, producing around 190 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. A less common engine option for this model year is the 2.5-liter inline-six M52TU engine, producing around 170 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 528i for its smooth ride, responsive handling, and well-appointed interior. Common dislikes include the car’s age-related maintenance needs and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

2.8L M52TU Inline-Six

• VANOS Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, especially at low RPMs, and a rattling noise from the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS seals and potentially the VANOS solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the valve cover, burning smell, and potentially low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks from various locations (radiator, expansion tank, hoses), and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components, such as the radiator, expansion tank, thermostat, water pump, and hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the components needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L M52TU Inline-Six

• VANOS Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, especially at low RPMs, and a rattling noise from the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS seals and potentially the VANOS solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the valve cover, burning smell, and potentially low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks from various locations (radiator, expansion tank, hoses), and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components, such as the radiator, expansion tank, thermostat, water pump, and hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the components needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (A5S325Z)

• Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, harsh or jerky shifts, and potential loss of drive. Often occurs with age and mileage.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change may help. A transmission rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid change) / $2000 - $4000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear of the car, especially when accelerating or decelerating, and vague handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear subframe bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Pixel Loss in Instrument Cluster/Radio Display
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or faded pixels in the instrument cluster or radio display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected display. Repair services are available that replace the ribbon cable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (repair) / $300 - $800+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that fail to operate correctly, make grinding noises, or fall into the door.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around Jacking Points and Wheel Arches)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or perforation of the metal around the jacking points, wheel arches, and other areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, welding, and repainting. The severity determines the cost.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaches from the backing and begins to sag, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner fabric or the entire headliner assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 BMW 528i, while a desirable vehicle, is prone to certain age-related issues. Engine issues like VANOS and cooling system failures are common and can be costly. Suspension components, especially control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings, are also frequent maintenance items. Electrical problems, such as pixel loss and window regulator failure, can affect the car’s functionality and value. Rust is also a concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the repair shop.