BMW F10 5 Series — Common Issues

Overview

The F10 5 Series (2010-2017) is more reliable than the E60 but still has its quirks.

N20 (528i)

• Timing chain stretch — the big one. Budget for replacement.
• Oil filter housing gasket leak
• Valve cover gasket leak

N55 (535i)

• Valve cover / PCV failure
• Electric water pump
• Oil filter housing gasket

N63 V8 (550i)

• Oil consumption — the N63 disease
• Coolant pipe leaks in the valley
• Injector failure
• Valve stem seal failure (early N63)

Chassis

• Front lower control arm bushings — wear causes clunking
• Rear air suspension (if equipped) — air spring leaks
• Steering rack — electronic steering rack can fail

Electronics

• NBT iDrive screen delamination
• Comfort access door handle failure
• Parking brake actuator failure
• Battery drain — Bluetooth module or comfort access module not sleeping

Maintenance Schedule Highlights

Interval	Service
10,000 km	Oil change (don't follow BMW's 24k recommendation)
40,000 km	Spark plugs, air filter
60,000 km	Transmission fluid, differential fluid
60,000 km	Coolant flush, brake fluid
80,000 km	Control arm bushings inspection
100,000 km	N20 timing chain inspection/replacement