2017 BMW 5 Series: common problems and reliability

The 2017 BMW 5 Series has 37 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and seat belts. 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 2017 model year

37
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
2
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2017 BMW 5 Series vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

air bags
8
seat belts
7
electrical system
6
seats
6
engine
4

Recalls affecting the 2017 5 Series

air bags

Campaign 20V243000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i and 540i xDrive and 2017-2018 530e xDrive vehicles. Prior exposure to excessive levels of humidity within the driver and passenger head ai…

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.

Other 5 Series model years

2024 5 Series2023 5 Series2021 5 Series2020 5 Series2019 5 Series2014 5 Series2013 5 Series2012 5 Series2011 5 Series2010 5 Series2009 5 Series2007 5 Series2005 5 Series2004 5 Series2003 5 Series2000 5 Series1998 5 Series
Full BMW 5 Series owner reportCompare against another car