2007 BMW 530i
Introduction:
The 2007 BMW 530i is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-six engine mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. It produces 255 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. The 530i is praised for its smooth ride, responsive handling, and luxurious interior. However, it has been plagued by several issues over the years.
Engine
3.0L N52 Inline-Six Engine (255 hp, 220 lb-ft)
- Valve Stem Seal Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, rough idle
- Solution: Replace valve stem seals
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, engine stalling
- Solution: Replace intake manifold or swirl flaps
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Vanos System Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, check engine light
- Solution: Replace Vanos solenoid or Vanos unit
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Transmission
6-Speed Manual Transmission:
- No Issues Found
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (GM)
- Transmission Slippage:
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty shifting gears, slipping in and out of gear
- Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
- Solenoid Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed or rough shifting, check engine light
- Solution: Replace solenoids
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Suspension
- Front Control Arm Bushing Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, decreased handling
- Solution: Replace control arm bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Rear Subframe Mounting Point Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Creaking or groaning noises over bumps, rear-end instability
- Solution: Reinforce subframe mounting points
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, weak battery, electrical system failure
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after a period of time without starting the car
- Solution: Test and diagnose electrical system for parasitic drain
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Heater Core Leakage:
- Description/Symptoms: Foggy windows, coolant smell in the cabin
- Solution: Replace heater core
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Navigation System Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Blank screen, navigation functionality not working
- Solution: Update or replace navigation system
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Recalls:
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 07V250000: Fuel Pump Failure
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V292000: Engine Valve Train Component Failure
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V374000: Air Bag Control Unit Failure
Summary:
The 2007 BMW 530i is a well-rounded luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and a luxurious interior. However, it is not without its share of issues. The most common problems affect the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. These issues range in severity from minor annoyances to potentially costly repairs. While some issues are common to BMW vehicles of this era, others are specific to the 530i. Owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used 530i and factor in the potential cost of repairs.