"Is the 5 Serisi 528i reliable, and what should you check?"
When buying a used BMW 5 Series 528i 2013 (F07 / F10 / F10M / F11), the most frequently mentioned issue: oil leaks from gaskets and valve cover components. Additionally, carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection is also commonly reported.
Engine: N20
N20B20A · 528i · Used in this car from 2012-2017
Strengths
Relatively low fuel consumption
Good potential for chip tuning
Watch-outs
Timing chain has low service life
Frequent leaks from under valve cover
Plastic pipes have short lifespan
Known engine issues
Timing chainThe most famous weak point of this engine is the modest service life of the timing chain, sometimes it lasts less than 80,000 km. Note that units after 2015 have a longer service life.
Oil pump chainAnother widespread problem of early engines was the breakage of the oil pump chain with fatal consequences. A new thicker chain appeared in September 2012.
Piston destructionN20B20A engines with compression ratio 10.0 are easily tuned and run without much trouble, but N20B20B engines with compression ratio 11.0 suffer from detonation after chip tuning.
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
Oil leaks from gaskets and valve cover components
Often reported
On N20 engines, oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing are common. Elastomer gaskets harden over time and with heat, causing seepage and visible leaks.
Engine Bay
Carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection
Often reported
The N20 engine uses direct injection, which leads to carbon buildup on intake valves because fuel does not wash the valves directly. Over time, deposits reduce volumetric efficiency, causing rough idle and power loss.
Engine Internal
Oil consumption and bearing damage risk
Often reported
Higher than normal oil consumption is reported on N20 engines, sometimes linked to timing chain guide fragments entering the oil pan and oil pickup. Particles or debris can clog the oil pump screen, leading to pressure loss and, in some cases, bearing damage.
Engine Internal
Premature timing chain and tensioner failure
Often reported
The N20 engine in the 2.0 245 HP variant is known for timing issues: plastic guides and tensioners can degrade or break, leading to chain stretch, rattling noise especially when cold, and risk of timing slip. If neglected, it can cause severe engine damage.
Timing chain
BMW 5 Serisi 528i technical specs
BMW 5 Serisi 528i (2013): boot 560 L; fuel use 7,4 l/100 km (urban 9,9 l/100 km · extra-urban 5,9 l/100 km); 0–100 in 6.4 s.
Boot capacity
560 L
Fuel consumption
7,4 l/100 km (urban 9,9 l/100 km · extra-urban 5,9 l/100 km)
What should I look for when buying a BMW 5 Series 528i?+
When buying a 2013 528i, check the service history, test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. Most commonly reported issues: oil leaks from gaskets and valve cover components; carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection; oil consumption and bearing damage risk.
What are the chronic problems of the BMW 5 Series 528i?+
Most commonly reported issues: oil leaks from gaskets and valve cover components; carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection; oil consumption and bearing damage risk.
Is the BMW 5 Series 528i reliable?+
Instead of a simple yes/no, it's better to weigh the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 4 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 is verified. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.