2021 BMW 540i

The 2021 BMW 540i is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The 540i is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2021 5 Series include the 530i’s 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and the M550i’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. All engine options are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 540i for its smooth and powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Some common dislikes include the complicated iDrive infotainment system and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (B58)

• Coolant Leak from Plastic Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may develop from various plastic components in the cooling system, such as the thermostat housing or expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty plastic components with updated or higher-quality aftermarket parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil filter housing gasket can degrade and leak oil over time. Symptoms include oil leaks around the oil filter housing, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh shifting, particularly during downshifts or low-speed maneuvers. Hesitation or delays in gear changes may also occur. This can be due to failing mechatronic unit inside the transmission.
  • Solution: Software recalibration, valve body replacement, or complete transmission replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (recalibration) - $6,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with adaptive dampers may experience malfunctions, leading to uneven ride quality, error messages, or a loss of damping control. This can happen if the strut begins to leak.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty adaptive dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or unresponsive behavior.
  • Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of the iDrive control unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Control Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors or other driver-assistance sensors may fail, leading to inaccurate readings or error messages.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat motors that control seat adjustments can fail, limiting or preventing movement of the seat.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 BMW 540i, while a well-regarded luxury sedan, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most frequently reported problems involve engine coolant leaks, transmission harshness, electrical glitches, and suspension malfunctions. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. While most repairs can be solved by replacing the defective part, some may cost as much as $6,000 to resolve. Being mindful of these potential problems can help buyers make a more informed decision and better anticipate future maintenance needs.