Post
Research the Car Logo

2007 BMW 525i

Posted
By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2007 BMW 525i is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and elegant styling. This model year of the E60 5-Series offered a smooth driving experience and a well-appointed interior. However, it also had its share of common issues. Besides the 2.5L inline-6 engine (N52B25), other engine options included the 3.0L inline-6 (N52B30) in the 530i and the 4.8L V8 (N62B48) in the 550i. The 2.5L inline-6 engine produced 215 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Many owners praised the 525i for its responsive handling and comfortable ride, but some also criticized its complicated electronics and potential for expensive repairs. This document specifically focuses on issues reported by owners of the 2007 BMW 525i and their associated costs.

Engine

2.5L Inline-6 (N52B25)

  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Visible oil residue around the valve cover.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the oil filter housing, often dripping down the side of the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $450
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced engine power, and possible check engine light. Diagnostic codes related to the VANOS system.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on if cleaning is sufficient or if replacement is required.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Eccentric Shaft Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine running rough, loss of power, possible engine stalling, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes may point to the eccentric shaft sensor or related Valvetronic system issues.
    • Solution: Replace the eccentric shaft sensor. In some cases, additional components of the Valvetronic system may need inspection and replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+, as the sensor itself can be costly and the labor involved is significant.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission (GM 6L45R)

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks from around the transmission pan. Shifting issues.
    • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes. Check Engine Light.
    • Solution: Replace the Torque Converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and alignment issues.
    • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, ride height issues, compressor running constantly.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty air spring/shock, compressor, or related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side depending on which parts need replacement. Compressor replacement can add another $500 - $800.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the iDrive system. Issues with the display screen.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the Central Information Display (CID).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the severity and required repairs. Software updates are at the lower end, while replacing hardware components is significantly more expensive.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per door.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight, requiring frequent jump-starts.
    • Solution: Identify and repair parasitic drain. Common sources include faulty modules (e.g., comfort access, alarm system) or aftermarket accessories.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the diagnosis and repair. The cost could escalate significantly if a more expensive module needs replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, tracks getting stuck, or water leaks.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, clean and lubricate the tracks, or replace damaged seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the problem.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight/Taillight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning headlight bulbs, condensation inside the headlight/taillight housing.
    • Solution: Replace bulbs (including adaptive headlight bulbs, which are more expensive), reseal headlight/taillight housings, or replace the entire assembly if necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+ for standard bulbs, $200 - $600+ for adaptive headlight repairs, $100 - $300+ for resealing or replacing housings.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving very slowly.
    • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature regulation, blower motor failure, or issues with the auxiliary water pump.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific component failure (e.g., replace blower motor, auxiliary water pump, or repair climate control module).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the specific issue and parts required.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW 525i, while a desirable luxury sedan, is prone to certain issues, particularly in the engine, transmission, electrical, and suspension systems. Oil leaks are a common issue with the N52 engine. Electrical problems related to the iDrive system and door lock actuators can also be problematic. Suspension issues, especially with control arm bushings, contribute to handling and noise concerns. Depending on the severity, repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, highlighting the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance to mitigate potential expenses.

BMW, 525i
BMW 525i 2007
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.