"Is the 5 Serisi 520d reliable, and what should you check?"
When buying a used BMW 5 Series 520d 2009 (E60/E61 facelift), the most frequently mentioned issue is timing chain wear/breakage. Additionally, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging is also commonly reported.
Engine: N47
N47D20C · 520d · Used in this car from 2008-2013
Strengths
Wide selection of versions and modifications
Economical for such power output
Watch-outs
Many problems with early diesel versions
Frequent oil leaks
Many versions have piezo injectors
Known engine issues
Timing chain driveEarly engines had low timing chain lifespan: guides wore out, chains stretched, and sharp teeth on the crankshaft sprocket accelerated the process. On updated N47TU or N47N engines, most weak points were eliminated.
Cracks in the blockThe aluminum block was initially designed without a special safety margin, and severe overheating could cause cracks between the second and third cylinders. With the update, the block was reinforced and such problems almost ceased.
Fuel systemAll engines in this series are equipped with a reliable Bosch Common Rail fuel system, but powerful versions with piezo injectors are quite demanding on fuel quality. Also, avoid driving with an empty tank, as the high-pressure pump may suck in air and start producing metal shavings.
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
Timing chain wear/breakage
Often reported
The N47 engine in the 2.0 177 HP diesel is known for premature wear and breakage of the timing chain (sprocket on the flywheel side). This can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs.
Timing chain
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging
Often reported
The DPF tends to clog in many diesel units when the vehicle is mostly used in city driving or short trips that do not allow automatic regeneration.
Exhaust Emissions
EGR valve clogging and failure
Often reported
The EGR valve in the exhaust gas recirculation circuit clogs with carbon deposits, worsening throttle response, causing misfires, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, or smoke.
Exhaust Emissions
High-pressure pump and injector failures (common rail)
Often reported
Failure of the high-pressure pump (common rail) is reported to cause damage to the fuel system and injectors. In some cases, pump failure can create metal shavings in the fuel circuit, affecting injectors.
Fuel System
Turbocharger issues
Often reported
Turbocharger wear or failure is frequently reported, causing power loss, exhaust smoke, and abnormal noises.
Turbo
BMW 5 Serisi 520d technical specs
BMW 5 Serisi 520d (2009): boot 500 L; fuel use 5,3 l/100 km (urban 6,7 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,5 l/100 km); 0–100 in 8.5 s.
Boot capacity
500 L
Fuel consumption
5,3 l/100 km (urban 6,7 l/100 km · extra-urban 4,5 l/100 km)
What should I look for when buying a BMW 5 Series 520d?+
When buying a 2009 520d, check the service history, perform a test drive, and inspect engine/transmission warnings. The most commonly reported issues are: timing chain wear/breakage; Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging; EGR valve clogging and failure.
What are the common problems of the BMW 5 Series 520d?+
The most frequently reported issues are: timing chain wear/breakage; Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging; EGR valve clogging and failure.
Is the BMW 5 Series 520d reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it's best to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 5 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from the Difetti fault database; brand, fuel, engine, and generation compatibility between the source vehicle and target vehicle are verified. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.