BMW 5-Series Saloon 525i 4d (1988/F) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
The car is now 12 years old and still looks superb.
Costs
BMW's own parts costs are now dropping and are now quite reasonable for this type of vehicle. In my experience, pattern parts are a false economy.
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On the road
Driving
A very enjoyable driving experience.
Performance
Even by today's standards it is a very smooth and quick car.
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Living with it
Reliability
I have owned it for nearly five years now and the only time that it let me down was when the battery went flat (my own fault)!
Image
The shape is now getting a little dated but "real quality never goes out of style", as they say.
Comfort
Seats are firm and supportive.
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Security and Service
Security
No alarm system comes with this model as standard, so I fitted my own.
Service
I have never used the dealer network for any servicing or repairs - I'm a motor vehicle technician and do all my own servicing.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Regular valve clearance setting is essential for keeping that smooth sound and feel.
Other
At 125,000 miles the dash pod required repair (very common and expensive).
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes