Credov

BMW 520d common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 6 faults the BMW 520d is known for (2005–2010), 4 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the BMW 520d

Timing chain rattle on cold start

Costly if missed

2007–2011 · N47 · diesel · Engine

What to look for: Listen at a stone-cold start for a harsh metallic rattle from the back of the engine that fades.

Why it matters: Motoring press reports describe stretched chains or broken guides on this engine letting the chain jump or snap, which typically destroys the engine, and CarsGuide reports diagnosis alone running past AUD 4,000 at a dealer. Because no recall or published warranty extension covers it in this market, the cost sits with whoever owns the car - so establish chain history before you buy.

Sources: 1 2

Boot water damages electronics

Costly if missed

2003–2010 · Electrical

What to look for: Lift the boot floor and spare-wheel cover and look for water, tide marks, rust or green corrosion.

Why it matters: Corroded modules and looms are expensive, and some owners report a battery cable joint overheating; repairs can run from a few hundred dollars up to NZ$6,000 for a burnt loom.

Sources: 1 2 3

Auto gearbox wear at high km

Costly if missed

2003–2010 · N43B20, N46B20, N52B25, N52B30 · Gearbox

What to look for: Move slowly through P-R-N-D and feel for a thump or delay, then watch for flare between gears on the drive.

Why it matters: A box run on its original fluid can go from flare and harsh shifts to a full rebuild; typically NZ$4,500-$9,000 once it has failed.

Sources: 1 2 3

F10 520d timing chain rattle

Costly if missed

2012–2014 · N47D20 · diesel · Engine

What to look for: Cold start and listen at the rear of the engine for a rattle or metallic whine.

Why it matters: A snapped chain wrecks the engine and needs an engine-out repair; typically NZ$5,000-$10,000.

Sources: 1 2 3

Sticky console and door trim

Minor

2005–2010 · Interior and air con

What to look for: Feel the console around the iDrive knob, shifter and door pulls for a tacky or peeling coating.

Why it matters: It is cosmetic only, but a sticky, peeling cabin looks tired and worn and buyers notice it immediately when they get in.

Sources: 1 2

Chalky window trim

Minor

2010–2017 · Body and structure

What to look for: Look along all window surrounds in good light for haze, white spots or purple fading.

Why it matters: It is purely cosmetic, but it looks shabby on an otherwise tidy car, and the clips on this trim are fiddly and break easily during replacement, so it is a real cost to put right.

Sources: 1 2

Got a question about a BMW 520d? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other BMW models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.