BMW 5-Series Saloon (2003 - 2010) 530d SE 4d Auto (07) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
In their own words
It is my third 5 series in 30 years. I always buy them when they are a couple of years old and run them until problems start arising, then change for a nearly new one. This one has pleasantly surprised me as I have now had it for 15 years, and so far it has passed all services and MOTs (bar one - change of a break shoe as the bleed screw had seized) without any repairs needed.
I live in central London and do not use the car much for local driving, 75% of the mileage is done on motorways.
It is a comfortable and nice car to drive, it is performs well, has a quick acceleration and given the size of the car it is reasonably economical. I regularly do 250 miles round trips to the Midlands and it easily does 45 mpg or more on such trips at National speed limits (or slightly above). Even for city driving it is surprisingly economical.
When not used it is kept in a garage.
I usually have it serviced by a main dealer, admittedly it is more expensive, but I accept the extra cost for peace of mind. I have previously tried independent garages but were less impressed by their workman ship.
The diesel engine clatter, particularly noticeable when stationary or starting up, annoys me sometimes but once at speed it is as quiet as my two previous six cylinder petrol BMWs, and obviously it is a lot more economical.
How reliable do you find the car?
In 2022 when the change of brake fluid was due, the bleed screw of right side front brake shoe had seized and the brake shoe needed to be replaced. The work was done by a local specialist.
Does the car do everything you expected it to do?
Comfortable, spacious car. Surprisingly economical as I regularly get 42 to 45 miles per gallon.
About their car
- Fuel type Diesel
- When purchased October 2009
- Condition when bought Used
- Current Mileage 40,000 miles
- Average MPG 43 mpg
