BMW 5 Series G30: Advantages and Operating Features

There aren't many cars in the world that have had entire feature films made to promote them. The BMW 5 Series in its seventh generation is one of them. The film, by the way, is a short one, but quite dynamic -- it's called "The Escape," I recommend watching it when you get the chance. In this cinematic work, today's featured car appears in all its glory. However, beauty is not the only advantage of this car. Today we'll talk about the reliability and operating features of the BMW 5 Series G30 sedan.

History and Modifications

The fifth series sedan was presented in October 2016 before its public debut in January 2017 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The wagon version was shown in February 2017 before its official presentation in March at the Geneva Motor Show. Interestingly, outside of Europe, the wagon was officially barely sold.

It's also worth noting that the long wheelbase version of the G30 was created exclusively for the Chinese domestic market. Since its launch, the BMW 5 Series has been manufactured at various plants of the BMW Group.

The BMW 5 Series G30 came in a great variety of versions and modifications. The diesel lineup included the inline four-cylinder B47D20 engine with a 2-liter capacity and the inline six-cylinder B57D30 with a 3-liter capacity in two power variants. The more powerful version had the S0 addition in the engine designation, and the models equipped with it had the letter M before the numerical index. Vehicles with the B47 engine could be either all-wheel or rear-wheel drive, while those with the B57 exclusively delivered torque to all four wheels.

The gasoline lineup also started with an inline two-liter four-cylinder B48B20 in two power versions. Next came the inline three-liter six-cylinder B58B30. The most powerful M version was equipped with a V8 N63B44 with a 4.4-liter capacity. The drive differentiation was identical to the diesel versions: only modifications with the entry-level B48 engine could be rear-wheel drive.

The transmission for all vehicles without exception was the eight-speed ZF 8HP. In 2020, a facelift occurred, which primarily brought minor changes to the trim levels and engine characteristics. After the update, the B47's power was increased by five horsepower, the diesel "M" left the lineup, and the power of the gasoline version rose to 530 horsepower.

Features of Diesel Engines

Diesel modifications of the BMW 5 Series G30 enjoy increased demand, especially in the secondary market. This applies to all variants: from the simplest to the most technologically advanced. However, when choosing a diesel version, it's worth paying attention to certain features.

Regardless of engine capacity, diesel engines require increased attention to the EGR system. The manufacturer periodically conducts recall campaigns to replace the cooler of this system. When purchasing a used car, it is recommended to check participation in these campaigns by VIN number.

The specificity of diesel engines lies in the accumulation of carbon deposits in the intake manifold even at relatively low mileage (80-90 thousand kilometers). Regular preventive cleaning of the intake manifold is a mandatory procedure for maintaining optimal diesel engine operation. The optimal cleaning option is using walnut shells. Depending on the operating modes, it is recommended to perform this procedure every 30-50 thousand kilometers.

It's worth paying attention to the AdBlue system (urea neutralization), which may require servicing at mileages over 100 thousand kilometers due to the specifics of sensor operation.

The torsional vibration damper of the belt drive deserves special attention on the B47 engine. Its service life can vary significantly: on some models, it lasts up to 200 thousand kilometers or more, on others, it wears out by 80-100 thousand. Wear is signaled by the appearance of vibrations and extraneous noises from under the hood, intensifying as the engine warms up.

At a mileage of about 100 thousand kilometers, wear of the intercooler pipe through which the boost air passes is possible. If damage to the pipe is detected, its immediate replacement is necessary.

Several cases of thermostat failure have been recorded on three-liter engines -- its housing can crack, leading to rapid loss of coolant. Such cases occurred even at relatively low mileages (50-60 thousand kilometers).

Features of Gasoline Engines

The gasoline engine lineup of the BMW 5 Series G30 also has its nuances, which must be taken into account during operation and when choosing a car in the secondary market.

The two-liter B48 engine was modernized in 2019. In earlier versions, peculiarities were noted in the operation of needle bearings used as supports for balance shafts in the engine crankcase. If you are purchasing a BMW 5 Series with this engine, it is recommended to check the VIN number to see if the car participated in the recall campaign.

Also, on two-liter gasoline engines, engine mounts may require attention at 100-120 thousand kilometers. This can be diagnosed by a characteristic small impact when starting the engine, after which the engine runs smoothly.

For B58 engines, the 200 thousand kilometer mileage mark is an important threshold. At such mileage, the Vanos system phase regulators, cylinder head gaskets may require attention, and leaks through valve covers are possible.

Common features for both types of engines (B48 and B58) are plastic oil filter modules combined with a heat exchanger. Due to loads occurring during operation, after 100 thousand kilometers they may require attention. It is recommended to inspect these modules with each engine oil change. Some owners recommend preventive replacement at 120 thousand kilometers.

The cooling system is something that needs constant monitoring. The pump, expansion tank cap, and the expansion tank itself rarely last more than 120 thousand kilometers.

Specialists have mixed opinions about the N63 (V8) engine. Some consider it a model of reliability, others - a capricious and demanding unit. The truth, as usual, is somewhere in between. It's important to understand that for this engine, measured city operation is not the most optimal mode - it was created for speed and appropriate care. Such an engine requires more frequent oil changes - the recommended interval is 5-6 thousand kilometers.

The BMW V8 is distinguished by specific requirements for the quality of consumables, especially spark plugs. Among the frequently mentioned features are increased oil consumption due to ring sticking and wear of oil scraper caps, specifics of the valve timing mechanism with Valvetronic and Dual Vanos systems, as well as features of oil supply to the turbocharger.

Transmission and Running Gear

Against the background of various engine lineup nuances, the eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic appears extremely reliable. The main requirement for it is timely replacement of transmission fluid, which, depending on driving style, should be done every 30-60 thousand kilometers.

In all-wheel drive modifications of the BMW 5 Series G30, the drive is not the most problematic but requires certain attention. There have been documented cases when wheel drive replacements were required even during the warranty period. A similar situation is observed with the transfer case.

At a mileage of 50-60 thousand kilometers, some owners noted the appearance of jolts and jerks during smooth acceleration and braking, not related to the moment of gear shifting. A characteristic feature of such cases is the absence of errors in the onboard computer memory, which makes diagnosis difficult. In most cases, the cause was wear of friction discs in the transfer case.

It's important to note that the transfer case of the BMW 5 Series G30 is sensitive to aggressive driving style and large differences in size between front and rear wheels. When problems with the transfer case arise, it is usually subjected to repair, not complete replacement.

Regarding the transmission, it should also be noted that the cardan shaft coupling usually lasts about 100 thousand kilometers, after which it requires replacement. At a mileage of 150 thousand kilometers, oil leaks from the rear differential may appear. If this problem is not addressed in time, the differential begins to hum, and play appears in the wheel drives.

The BMW 5 Series G30 was fortunate with its suspension - it's robust and reliable. Usually, the lower arms of the front suspension, or more precisely their silent blocks, are the first to make themselves known. When driving over small bumps, a weak knock may appear, which is quite difficult to diagnose without specialized training. Wheel bearings and shock absorbers typically last up to 150 thousand kilometers.

Electrical Equipment and Comfort

The LED headlights of the BMW 5 Series G30 deserve special attention. In them, the light guides are located quite close to the diode block, which can lead to the light guide burning over time, resulting in the burning out of the diodes. Dimming LED headlight modules are a characteristic feature of Bavarian cars. The manufacturer replaced headlights under warranty, but the problem could recur. Some specialists found a solution by not only changing the diode block but also correcting the distance between light guides and diodes, which prevented the recurrence of the malfunction.

With the driver's seat, or more precisely its creaks and play, the situation was different. The manufacturer released a special repair kit that solved both problems.

Conclusion

The BMW 5 Series in the G30 body is a premium class car with all the ensuing features. It offers an impressive level of comfort, dynamics, and prestige, but at the same time requires appropriate maintenance.

When choosing a car in the secondary market, special attention must be paid to the service history, mileage, and technical condition. It's important to check whether the specific model participated in recall campaigns and whether all necessary work was completed.

Diesel versions require increased attention to the EGR system and regular cleaning of the intake manifold. Gasoline modifications are sensitive to oil quality and the timeliness of its replacement. The eight-speed ZF 8HP transmission has proven itself as a reliable unit, requiring only regular fluid replacement.

The suspension of the BMW 5 Series G30 is characterized by high reliability, making the car comfortable for everyday use. LED headlights may require attention due to design features.

Overall, the BMW 5 Series G30 is a balanced premium class car that, with proper maintenance, can delight its owner with comfort, dynamics, and prestige for many years. The main thing is to make the right choice when buying and provide the car with proper care.

Choose the right cars, and they will bring you joy for many years!

Find Your Pre-Owned BMW 5 Series G30

We've collected second-hand listings from Facebook Marketplace, Kaidee, One2Car, and TaladRod all in one place. Compare prices, check seller types, and find the perfect match for your needs.

Find second-hand BMW 5 Series G30 in Thailand here → BMW 5 Series G30 on Roddee PRO