Wiring, suspension, GM automatic and campaigns on the 5 Series E39

Engine / equipment

BMW 5 Series E39 (petrol, diesel and M5)

Period mentioned

1995–2004

Symptoms

Wiring that cracks with age: the car will not start or cuts out (ignition switch), the cluster, radio or navigation fail and the tail lights, third brake light, plate light or rear wiper go out. Suspension needing constant upkeep (wishbones, top mounts, drop links and thrust arms, with a shaking wheel under braking) and failing air levelling. Rust on the sills, jacking points, fuel flap, door edges, tailgate and bonnet. On automatic diesels, a GM gearbox that fails before 200,000 km and swirl flaps that can come loose.

Possible cause described

Age: the wire insulation loses its plasticisers. The diesels’ GM gearbox (5L40-E/5L50-E) locks the converter clutch late and its oil degrades; the swirl flaps are only on automatic diesels. Recalls: steering lock (1995–1996) and the driver-airbag gas generator (1999–2003 and September 2000–September 2004).

Check for the garage

Test every switch and light; check the underside and suspension; on automatic diesels, change the gearbox oil often and check the flaps; campaigns by VIN.

Cost cited in the source

No verified estimate; ask the garage for a quote.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Sources from the original database