2018 BMW 520i

The 2018 BMW 520i is a popular executive sedan known for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology. In addition to the 520i, the 2018 5 Series was available with a range of engine options, including other gasoline engines (like the 530i and 540i) and diesel engines (like the 520d and 530d), along with various drivetrain configurations (RWD and xDrive AWD). The 520i features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine producing around 184 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and elegant interior. However, some have expressed concerns about certain reliability issues and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

B48 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (520i)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are sometimes observed around the valve cover gasket. This can lead to a burning oil smell, visible oil around the engine, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points in the cooling system, including hoses, the water pump, or the expansion tank. These can lead to overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly at lower speeds or during cold starts. This can manifest as jerky movements or a noticeable hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or in severe cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for software updates and fluid flush, $1,000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Glitches, freezing, or unresponsiveness of the iDrive infotainment system. This can affect navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software updates, $500 - $1500+ for module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic draw and repair the faulty component or replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+ for diagnosis, $200+ for battery replacement, cost varies for other repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Loose Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattles or loose trim pieces in the cabin, particularly around the dashboard and door panels.
  • Solution: Re-secure or replace the loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+, depending on the extent of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 BMW 520i, while generally a well-regarded vehicle, has some potential issues that prospective owners should be aware of. Engine oil and coolant leaks, transmission issues, electrical glitches with the iDrive system, and interior trim problems are among the most commonly reported. While most of these issues aren’t necessarily catastrophic, they can lead to expensive repairs, especially if left unaddressed. The severity and cost of these issues range from minor annoyances like loose trim to more serious problems like oil leaks that could potentially cause engine damage. It’s recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before purchasing a used 2018 BMW 520i.