BMW 5-Series Touring (2003 - 2010) 525d SE 5d Auto (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It shows I was wrong to assume that BMW was capable of producing a car with properly designed direction indicators. It also shows that I overestimated the build quality. The wings are weak and the battery compartment is inadequately protected.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They find it comfortable to travel in.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely not. It is not fit for purpose.The build quality is poor. It has been written off as a result of a fairly minor accident. The rear offside wing was impacted, wrecking the battery and causing a total loss of power to the control systems.

What are you likely to buy next?

One in which the battery is not located in such a stupid position and which has more robustly designed wings.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,750

When did you buy the car?

September 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

I would say so. The price was in line with what was being asked for comparable cars.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was the only model I could find with 16" Style 134 Alloy wheels. I was well aware of the horrific experiences of many BMW owners with low profile tyres or run-flat tyres and wheel rim damage that occurred when the tyres failed.

What was the dealer like?

Pleasant and helpful.

What's it like to drive?

Cruises effortlessly and is adequately powered.

What's it like to park?

Dreadful. It badly needed parking sensors.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes, the windscreen wiper motors failed at 95,600 miles and had to be replaced at considerable cost. The tyre pressure indicator needs frequent re-setting because it keeps informing me that there is a puncture when in fact there is not. The direction indicators do not cancel properly - a serious BMW design defect.

What's most practical about your car?

The loading space.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

CD stack player in glove compartment.