1998 BMW 5 Series: common problems and reliability
The 1998 BMW 5 Series has 45 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and structure. Owners most often flag excessive size and lack of physical controls (g60 generation) — criticized as too large and unsatisfying due to digital switches for even basic functions like airflow vents. frequency: recurrent.
Safety record for the 1998 model year
45
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
2
Crash reports
1
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 1998 BMW 5 Series vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
air bags
8
structure
5
electrical system
5
steering
5
power train
4
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is highly polarized and generation-dependent. For the latest generation (G60, circa 2024-2025), initial owner feedback is sharply negative, with strong criticism directed at its excessive physical size, the near-total removal of physical controls in
Excessive size and lack of physical controls (G60 generation) — criticized as too large and unsatisfying due to digital switches for even basic functions like airflow vents. Frequency: recurrent.
High maintenance costs and unreliable engines (specific to older V8 models) — the N63 V8 engine (in 550i/750i) is regarded as one of BMW's most unreliable, requiring expensive repairs. General maintenance for high-mileage examples is costly. Frequency: recurrent.
Digital interface and haptic feedback concerns (newer generations) — buttons may not work in very cold weather (below -10°C / 14°F), failing to recognize touch with gloves. Frequency: isolated.
Brake squealing and rotor runout — specifically noted on M-Sport brakes in colder climates, attributed to improper bedding and high-carbon metallurgy. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the 5 Series.
Typical used price
Used 5 Series listings typically run $15,199–$26,297 across 2011 to 2026 model years.