2019 to 2024 problems

BMW 5 Series 2019 to 2024: common problems and what to know

What goes wrong on the 2019 to 2024 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 2019 to 2024 BMW 5 Series is a well-regarded executive car, but it has some common issues, including electrical faults and engine performance concerns. Potential buyers should be aware of these problems when considering a purchase.

Key facts callout

  • Common issues include infotainment system glitches and electrical faults.
  • Engine misfires and rough idling have been reported by some owners.
  • The reliability of the 2019 model is generally good, with some caveats.
  • Prices for used models can range widely depending on condition and mileage.

Engine and gearbox

The BMW 5 Series from 2019 to 2024 offers a variety of engines, including petrol and diesel options. The 530i petrol engine is popular for its balance of performance and efficiency. However, some owners have reported engine misfires and rough idling, particularly in the earlier models from 2019.

The automatic gearbox generally receives praise for its smooth shifting, but there have been isolated reports of transmission issues. These include delayed gear changes and, in some cases, complete failure. Regular maintenance and software updates can help mitigate these problems.

Electrics and electronics

One of the standout features of the 5 Series is its advanced technology. However, this comes with its own set of challenges. Many owners have experienced issues with the infotainment system, including freezing screens and unresponsive controls. In some cases, a software update can resolve these issues, but it may require a visit to a dealership.

Electrical faults are another concern, with reports of warning lights appearing without cause and issues with the keyless entry system. While these problems are not universal, they are common enough to warrant attention when considering a purchase.

Body and suspension

The body of the BMW 5 Series is generally well-built, with high-quality materials used throughout. However, some owners have reported issues with paint quality and minor rusting, particularly around the wheel arches.

The suspension system is designed for a balance of comfort and sportiness, but there have been complaints about premature wear on components such as bushings and shock absorbers. This can lead to a less comfortable ride and increased noise. Regular checks and maintenance can help prolong the life of these components.

What people are asking

What is the most common problem with the BMW 5 Series? The most common problems reported include issues with the infotainment system, electrical faults, and engine misfires.

Is the 2019 BMW 5 Series reliable? The 2019 BMW 5 Series generally has a good reliability rating, but some owners have reported specific issues with electronics and engine performance.

Which year is the BMW 5 Series most reliable? While reliability can vary by model and engine type, many owners consider the 2021 model to be among the most reliable due to improvements made in response to earlier issues.

What are the common problems with the 2019 BMW? Common problems include electrical issues, infotainment glitches, and engine performance concerns.

What owners say

However, they also express frustration over the recurring electrical issues and infotainment problems. Some owners recommend ensuring that the car has had all necessary software updates and servicing before purchase. Sentiment indicates that many owners appreciate the 5 Series for its driving dynamics and comfort.

Others suggest opting for models with fewer electronic features if reliability is a primary concern. Overall, while many owners love their 5 Series, they advise potential buyers to do thorough checks and consider warranty options.

Should you buy a 2019 to 2024 BMW 5 Series?

The 2019 to 2024 BMW 5 Series is a premium executive car that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly with electronics and engine performance.

If you are considering a used model, look for one with a full service history and check for any outstanding recalls or software updates. Overall, if you are willing to manage potential issues, the 5 Series can be a rewarding choice in the executive car segment.

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

What is the most common problem with the BMW 5 Series?

The most common problems reported include issues with the infotainment system, electrical faults, and engine misfires.

Is the 2019 BMW 5 Series reliable?

The 2019 BMW 5 Series generally has a good reliability rating, but some owners have reported specific issues with electronics and engine performance.

Sources