The Good
The 2000 BMW 5-Series boasts superb handling and powerful engines, appealing to emotional buyers seeking exhilarating performance. Its refined ride, premium interior comfort, and elegant, enduring design offer a luxurious experience. While not a fuel-efficiency leader, its robust engineering and current used market value make it a practical, desirable classic for those willing to maintain it.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2000 BMW 5-Series include a fragile cooling system (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), common electrical gremlins like failed window regulators and ABS/DSC modules, and wear in suspension components. Maintenance can be expensive due to specific parts and labor, requiring a diligent ownership approach to avoid major issues.
2000 BMW 5-Series: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 528i: 2.8-liter M52TUB28 inline-6 cylinder (double VANOS)
- 540i: 4.4-liter M62TUB44 V8 cylinder (double VANOS)
- M5: 4.9-liter S62 V8 cylinder
- Horsepower:
- 528i: Approximately 193 hp
- 540i: Approximately 282 hp
- M5: 394 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimated, city/highway):
- 528i (Manual/Automatic): Around 19/28 MPG / 19/27 MPG
- 540i (Manual/Automatic): Around 17/25 MPG / 17/23 MPG
- M5: Around 13/20 MPG
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- 528i: Approximately 7.0-7.5 seconds
- 540i: Approximately 5.5-6.0 seconds
- M5: Approximately 4.8-5.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- While not a primary feature in the U.S. market, some European models were rated for towing up to approximately 3,500 lbs with specific equipment. U.S. owners generally do not use the 5-Series for significant towing.
- Trim-Level Features (Standard and Optional highlights):
- 528i: Standard features typically included automatic climate control, power windows, locks, and mirrors, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, power front seats, leatherette upholstery, and a moonroof.
- 540i: Added more luxurious features and stronger performance, often including leather upholstery, wood trim, and a sport-tuned suspension as part of various packages.
- M5: The high-performance trim included unique body styling, an M-specific suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, M-badged interior elements, and performance-oriented instrumentation.
- Common Options (across trims): Premium sound systems (e.g., DSP), navigation system (Mark II or Mark III), heated seats, xenon headlights, Park Distance Control (PDC), and various sport or premium packages.
2000 BMW 5-Series Specifications
Vehicle History Report
What Problems Does the 2000 BMW 5-Series Have?
Suspension components are another common wear item. Front thrust arm bushings, control arm bushings, and ball joints tend to degrade, leading to vibrations, loose steering, and uneven tire wear. Rear suspension components can also require attention over time.
Electrical issues are also prevalent. Failed window regulators are notorious, requiring replacement of the entire assembly. The ABS/DSC module (Anti-lock Brake System/Dynamic Stability Control) is a very common failure point, leading to illuminated warning lights and loss of these safety features. Pixel failure in the instrument cluster and multi-information display (MID) is another widespread cosmetic but annoying problem.
Engine-specific concerns include VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seals on the M52TU (528i) and M62TU (540i) engines, which can harden and lead to reduced performance and fuel economy. Oil leaks from valve covers, oil pan gaskets, and power steering hoses are also typical for vehicles of this age.
For the M5, issues like a weak rear subframe (though less prevalent than the E46 M3), clutch and flywheel wear, and rod bearing concerns (though debated in frequency) are often discussed. Recalls primarily affected specific components across various BMW models, with the most notable recent one being the widespread Takata airbag recall, which BMW was part of. Always check for open recalls by VIN.
How long will the 2000 BMW 5-Series last?
However, long-term durability is highly dependent on proactive maintenance. Weaknesses tend to surface as plastic and rubber components degrade over time and with exposure to heat, particularly within the cooling system and suspension bushings. Electrical connections can become brittle, leading to intermittent faults. While fundamentally durable, consistent investment in replacing age-related wear items is crucial to prevent cascading failures and ensure continued reliable operation.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For entertainment, standard offerings included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, often complemented by a trunk-mounted CD changer. Premium sound systems, such as the Harman Kardon DSP (Digital Sound Processing) system, were available as an option, delivering enhanced audio quality. Bluetooth connectivity and USB inputs were not factory options for this model year.
Driver-assistance features were minimal compared to today's vehicles. Beyond standard cruise control, Park Distance Control (PDC) was an available option, providing audible warnings for obstacles when parking. Advanced driver-assistance systems like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, or blind-spot monitoring were not yet prevalent in this segment.
Safety features were robust for its time. The 5-Series came standard with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), and often Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard or an option depending on the trim and market. It featured multiple airbags, including front driver and passenger airbags, front side airbags, and BMW's Head Protection System (HPS) – essentially side curtain airbags.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the E39 5-Series generally performed well. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) rated the 1997-2003 5-Series as "Good" in the moderate overlap front crash test. Side impact ratings were "Acceptable" for models equipped with optional side airbags and "Marginal" without them. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings typically showed 4 to 5 stars for front and side impacts, demonstrating a solid safety structure for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
2000 BMW 5-Series Prices and Market Value
Depreciation insights show that most standard E39s hit their value floor years ago. Factors affecting resale value now include comprehensive maintenance records, cosmetic and mechanical condition, low mileage (especially for M5s), desirable options like manual transmissions or sport packages, and absence of rust. A neglected E39 with significant deferred maintenance will be worth considerably less.
2000 BMW 5-Series Cost of Ownership
Maintenance and repair costs are the primary financial burden. Parts are typically BMW-specific and more expensive than mainstream brands, and specialized labor rates can quickly add up. Expect to replace numerous age-related components (cooling system, suspension, electrical modules) over time. While a rewarding driving experience, it is far from an economical vehicle to own, demanding a significant budget for upkeep to keep it running optimally.
2000 BMW 5-Series Fuel Efficiency
2000 BMW 5-Series Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 BMW 5-Series Compare to Other Vehicle?
In terms of performance and driving dynamics, the BMW 5-Series was widely considered the benchmark. Its precise steering, balanced chassis, and responsive engines delivered an engaging "Ultimate Driving Machine" experience. The Mercedes E-Class focused more on ride comfort and luxury, offering a softer, more isolated feel. The Audi A6, especially with Quattro all-wheel drive, provided confident handling in various conditions but typically lacked the BMW's raw driver involvement. The Lexus GS offered smooth, refined performance but leaned more towards quiet luxury than outright sportiness.
Regarding features, all rivals offered a strong suite of luxury amenities for the era, including automatic climate control, premium audio, and leather upholstery. BMW and Mercedes often led in driver-focused innovations, while Lexus emphasized refinement and user-friendliness. The E39's cabin design is still lauded for its ergonomic layout and quality materials.
Reliability is where the competition often diverged significantly. The Lexus GS series is generally considered the most reliable, known for its bulletproof powertrains and fewer common age-related issues. The Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 had their own sets of common problems (e.g., rust on W210 Mercedes, transmission issues on early C5 A6s). The BMW E39, while mechanically robust at its core, is notorious for requiring significant preventative maintenance and addressing issues like cooling system component failures, suspension wear, and electrical gremlins.
Price when new was competitive across the segment. In the current used market, while the BMW E39 can be found at very attractive prices, its higher long-term ownership costs due to maintenance can offset initial savings. Lexus GS models tend to hold their value slightly better due to their reputation for reliability.
Similar Alternatives: For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower maintenance costs, a Lexus GS300 or GS400 from the same era is an excellent choice, though it sacrifices some of the BMW's driving engagement. If a more comfort-oriented, stately ride is preferred, a Mercedes-Benz E320 or E430 (W210) could be an option, though they come with their own set of maintenance considerations. For a blend of luxury and all-weather capability, the Audi A6 2.7T Quattro (though more complex to maintain) or 4.2 Quattro are also noteworthy rivals.
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 BMW 5-Series a Good Vehicle?
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, but only under specific conditions. A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a BMW specialist is non-negotiable. Look for examples with comprehensive service records, ideally showing proactive replacement of known weak points like the cooling system and suspension components. A well-maintained 540i or M5 offers the most rewarding performance, while a 528i can still provide a satisfying driving experience with lower running costs. Avoid neglected "bargain" examples unless you're an experienced DIY mechanic. This isn't a cheap daily driver, but rather an affordable entry into a truly great driver's car that demands respect and regular care.