CKFCar Known Faults

BMW Known Faults

Germany

55

Known Faults

Models

1 Series

2004–present

13 faults

3 Series

1975–present

37 faults

5 Series

1972–present

5 faults

Most Reported Faults

Turbocharger Failure

Severe
2007-2010100,000–180,000 miles£800–£1400

Turbo failure on the E60 520d N47 is common from 100,000 miles. The 5 Series tends to be driven harder than the 3 Series, increasing turbo stress.

N47 Rear Timing Chain Failure

Critical
2007-201080,000–160,000 miles£2500–£4000

The E60 5 Series with the N47 diesel engine carries the same catastrophic rear-mounted timing chain risk as the E90 3 Series. Engine removal is required for repair — making this one of the most expensive known faults in the BMW range.

Swirl Flap Failure and Engine Ingestion

Critical
2007-201060,000–130,000 miles£30–£6000

The N47 in the E60 5 Series shares the swirl flap failure risk of all N47-engined BMWs. The flap breaks off the corroded actuator rod and is ingested into the engine.

EGR Failure and Coolant Loss

Moderate
2007-201070,000–140,000 miles£700–£1200

EGR cooler failure on the E60 520d N47 causes internal coolant leaks into the intake manifold. Combined with EGR valve carbonising, both components typically need replacing together.

Cooling System Thermostat Housing Failure

Moderate
2007-201070,000–140,000 miles£200–£400

The plastic thermostat housing on the N47 is notorious for cracking and causing coolant loss. BMW used plastic for this component in a bid to save weight — it fails prematurely.