The 1997-2003 BMW 5-Series Touring, part of the E39 chassis generation, is often considered a high point for BMW design and engineering. Enthusiasts and reviewers praise its well-built, comfortable nature, excellent ride, and handling. It is famous for its smooth driving dynamics but infamous for a cooling system that requires proactive maintenance and expensive-to-fix electrical issues. The E39 530i Touring remains a great choice for a car enthusiast seeking a well-balanced, affordable, and practical daily driver, provided they are prepared for DIY maintenance or upkeep costs.
The BMW 530i has above-average maintenance and repair costs, averaging $620 annually. Reliability concerns include transmission failure, oil leaks, and issues with the cooling system (e.g., water pump, thermostat). Total cost of ownership for 5 years is estimated at $69,651.
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