2009 BMW 5 Series: common problems and reliability

Is 2009 a good year for the 5 Series?

Across the 19 5 Series model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (1996) to 866 (2011). With 110 complaints, the 2009 5 Series sits about the same asthe model's median of 110.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

Recalls affecting the 2009 5 Series

What owners report on the F10 5 Series

Owners widely praise the F10 for its timeless design, comfortable ride, and excellent daily-driver qualities, often calling it one of BMW’s best modern designs and a true successor to the E39. However, reliability is a major point of contention: the N63 V8 (55

• N63 V8 (550i) reliability: Frequency: very frequent. Owners report expensive engine issues including rod bearings, valve stem seal leaks, and other auxiliary component failures; many say the car is only manageable with a comprehensive warranty.
• N20 four-cylinder timing chain: Frequency: recurrent. Early N20 engines (2012-2014) are reported to have weak timing chain guides that can fail and destroy the engine; revised in later production.
• Water pump and thermostat failure: Frequency: recurrent. Owners report needing replacement around 65k-75k miles.
• Valve cover gasket and oil cooler gasket leaks: Frequency: recurrent. Oil leaks onto the exhaust downpipe causing smoke, reported around 65k miles.
• Timing chain stretch (N55/N47): Frequency: isolated. One owner notes that the timing chain on some engines can stretch and require replacement, which is an expensive job.

Owner insights for the F10 5 Series. Read the full F10 owner report.

Typical used price

Used 5 Series listings typically run $15,199–$26,297 across 2011 to 2026 model years.

Compare the 5 Series against its rivals