2008 to 2014 problems

BMW 5 Series 2008 to 2014: common problems and what to know

What goes wrong on the 2008 to 2014 BMW 5 Series, what owners report and what to check before you buy one.

Updated 22nd June 2026 DVSA data: Across 189,287 recorded MOT tests, 17.6% failed.

BMW 5 Series
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

The 2008 to 2014 BMW 5 Series is a stylish and comfortable executive car, but it has several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. Key issues include cooling system failures, electrical malfunctions, and suspension wear.

Key facts callout

  • Years: 2008 to 2014
  • Common problems: Cooling system failures, electrical issues, and oil leaks
  • Most reliable year: 2011
  • Price range: Typically between £5,000 to £15,000 depending on condition and mileage

Engine and gearbox

The BMW 5 Series from 2008 to 2014 offers a range of engines, including petrol and diesel options. The 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine and the 2.0-litre diesel are popular choices. However, the cooling system is a significant concern across this generation, with owners frequently reporting water pump failures that can lead to engine overheating. Checking the service history for any cooling system repairs is advisable.

Another common issue is oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing. These leaks can lead to more severe engine problems if not addressed promptly. The automatic gearbox is generally reliable, but some owners have reported issues with the transmission control unit, which can cause erratic shifting.

Electrics and electronics

The 2008 to 2014 5 Series is equipped with various electronic features, including the iDrive infotainment system. While many users appreciate the technology, it can be prone to glitches, with common complaints including unresponsive screens and problems with Bluetooth connectivity.

Additionally, issues with the fuel pump control unit have been reported, which can cause starting problems and performance issues. Owners should ensure that any electrical problems are diagnosed and repaired before purchase.

Body and suspension

The bodywork of the BMW 5 Series is generally robust, but there are a few areas to inspect. Owners have reported water ingress, particularly in the boot, which can lead to mould and electrical issues, often due to blocked drainage channels.

Suspension wear is another common issue, especially on models with a sportier suspension setup. Worn bushings and shock absorbers can lead to a harsh ride and poor handling. It is advisable to check for any unusual noises while driving and to have the suspension components inspected.

What people are asking

Which year is the BMW 5 Series most reliable? Many consider the 2011 model to be the most reliable in this range, with fewer reported issues compared to other years.

Which BMW 5 Series to stay away from? The 2008 model is often highlighted for its higher incidence of problems, particularly with the cooling system.

Is the BMW 5 Series 2008 reliable? While it offers a luxurious driving experience, the 2008 model has been noted for various reliability concerns, especially regarding engine cooling.

What are the common problems with the 2008 BMW? Common issues include water pump failures, oil leaks, and electrical glitches, particularly in the infotainment system.

What owners say

Several users recommend thorough inspections and ensuring that any maintenance has been performed, particularly regarding the cooling system and electrical components. Overall, the car is seen as a pleasure to drive but potentially costly to maintain. Sentiment suggests that while the BMW 5 Series is praised for its driving dynamics and comfort, many owners express frustration with the frequency of repairs.

Should you buy a 2008 to 2014 BMW 5 Series?

The BMW 5 Series from 2008 to 2014 offers a mix of luxury, performance, and technology. However, potential buyers should be aware of its common issues, particularly with the cooling system and electrical components. If you are considering one of these models, it is crucial to check the service history and ensure that any known problems have been addressed.

If you find a well-maintained example, it can provide an enjoyable driving experience. However, be prepared for potential repair costs, especially if you are looking at earlier models like the 2008 version. With careful selection and due diligence, a 5 Series from this generation can be a worthy purchase.

BMW 5 Series recall record

65 recalls have been issued for the BMW 5 Series, between 1999 and 2026.

  1. Checking and re-securing the air-conditioning wiring harness

    R/2026/092

    Issued 17 March 2026

    The Safety Recall relates to the air-conditioning wiring harness located behind the dashboard. On the affected vehicles the wiring harness was fixed very close to a screw connection on the interior microfilter housing cover. The microfilter of the air conditioning system will be regularly replaced as part of the oil service. It cannot be ruled out that cables may be damaged when replacing the microfilter during a workshop visit. The filter cover has to be removed from the lower part of the instrument panel. After replacing the filter the cover has to be refitted at which point the wires may become damaged or trapped. If the wiring harness is damaged this could lead to malfunctions of the air conditioning system as well as to a short circuit. In case of a short circuit a sensor may overheat while the vehicle is in operation. As a result smoke may develop from the instrument panel and subsequently a fire cannot be ruled out.

    Remedy:On the affected vehicles the air-conditioning wiring harness will be checked repaired if necessary and re-secured in a modified fixing.

    Affects cars built Jun 2023 to Apr 2025

  2. Replace the Engine Starter Motor

    R/2026/054

    Issued 2 March 2026

    The Safety Recall relates to the engine starter motor. The fault relates to the RSW22 starter RWT (reinforced water tightness). It was found that with RWT starters an increased abrasion of the magnetic contact can cause the growth of deposits at the lowest point of the relay interior. This in turn may increase the relay contact resistance resulting in false starts or even causing short circuits and possibly a thermal reaction. In case of a short circuit the possibility of a thermal event cannot be excluded. This may happen while attempting to start the vehicle or while driving due to vibrations causing a short circuit due to moving deposits.

    Remedy:On the affected vehicles the starter motor will be replaced with a variant by another supplier with a different design. Until the repair has been completed it is recommended to not leave the vehicle running unattended after starting the engine.

    Affects cars built Oct 2020 to Apr 2022

  3. Takata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)

    R/2025/349

    Issued 18 December 2025

    Affected vehicles are already included in Safety Recalls within the markets they have previously resided in. The vehicles may be fitted with a driver and/or passenger airbag/s which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury which could prove fatal to people in the vicinity.

    Remedy:Vehicles will have the affected airbags checked and if necessary replaced.

    Affects cars built Sept 2000 to Sept 2003

  4. Program control units (CoC documents)

    R/2026/075

    Issued 28 November 2025

    A quality check has revealed that the affected G61 vehicles software does not reflect the associated CoC documentation.

    Remedy:To ensure your vehicle is in perfect working order we would like to program the control units to adapt the vehicle's software level to the CoC documents. as soon as possible. Naturally this work will be free of charge.

    Affects cars built Nov 2024 to Jun 2025

61 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

BMW 5 Series MOT record

From 189,287 recorded MOT tests, 17.6% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20233114.5%36,897 mi
20222,2249.5%35,797 mi
20211,8268.3%43,509 mi
20204,11610.5%46,023 mi
201915,16011.1%58,943 mi
201818,60211.8%69,312 mi
201714,87713.8%78,452 mi
201615,27612.9%89,042 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements37.7%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn22.5%
  3. A tyre seriously damaged17.5%
  4. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened11.3%
  5. A shock absorber damaged to the extent that it does not function or showing signs of severe leakage11.0%

Figures cover every BMW 5 Series tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

BMW 5 Series official figures

Median across 38 variants on sale, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
46.3 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
131 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Which year is the BMW 5 Series most reliable?

The 2011 model year is often cited as one of the most reliable in this range.

Which BMW 5 Series to stay away from?

Many owners advise avoiding the 2008 model due to its higher incidence of issues.

Sources