BMW F10 5-Series Complete Buyers’ Guide (2022) – Bimmers.com

The BMW F10 is the sixth generation of the German manufacturer’s 5-Series line and replaced the initially criticized BMW E60 5-Series. The BMW E60 was a problem child from the get-go as it replaced the beloved E39 5-Series — a lineup that many still consider as one of the best models from the Bavarian giants. So, with the BMW F10, the manufacturer tried to reconnect the model range with the characteristics associated with the E39. And it certainly managed to do so. 

Sure, the F10 has its faults — it’s not the most attractive executive sedan of the era and, in some examples, also falls short in the suspension and performance department. However, it’s still a great car and warrants your attention if you’re in the market for a used 5-Series. After being replaced by the current G30 5-Series over five years ago, prices for the BMW F10 are some of the lowest we’ve ever seen. 

In this guide, we’ve put together all the information you’ll need to find a used one, including which engine option will best suit your requirements and what problems you should look out for. 

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BMW F10 – A Step Ahead

The BMW F10 made its debut in 2010 and was in production until 2017. Over its seven-year run, it was available in multiple body styles (which we’ll look at below), one of them being a fastback body, which BMW refers to as the Gran Turismo. This was the first and only generation of the 5-Series that comprised a GT iteration. 

The F10 was also the first 5-Series to include several other bits of technology and hardware. These included a hybrid powertrain option, a turbocharged V8 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, a double-wishbone front suspension, and park assist as standard. The F10 M5 also introduced tech like a dual-clutch transmission and rear-wheel steering to the performance sedan. It also became the first M5 to feature a turbocharged engine.

The BMW F10 Through The Years

The BMW F10 5-Series was available in four body types — a sedan (F10), wagon or ‘Touring’ (F11), fastback or ‘Gran Turismo’ (F07), and a long-wheelbase sedan (F18) that was sold only in China.

The 2014 Facelift

In 2014, the BMW F10 underwent a mid-life update, or as BMW calls it, its Life Cycle Impulse (LCI). This brought about several changes in the range. In international markets, a 518d model was added as the entry into the diesel F10 range. Closer to home, the N63 engine on the 550i was updated with a newer, more powerful version bearing the same name. 

The rest of the changes were largely cosmetic and to the technology that the cars had to offer. For instance, the post-LCI cars came with Bi-Xenon headlights as standard and offered adaptive headlights and fog lights as optional extras. BMW also made improvements to the start-stop system, driver assistance systems, electronic handbrake, and auto transmission features like coasting in idle. 

The manufacturer made minor styling tweaks on the exterior to the bumpers and taillights, and the turn signals were integrated into the side mirrors. 

Available Models in North America

Internationally, the BMW F10 was powered by multiple engines and consisted of several petrol and diesel options. However, the entry-level models did not make their way to the North American market. This included the petrol-engined 520i and 523i and the diesel-powered 518d and 520d. 

Here’s a look at the models and engines that made their way to the U.S.:

Petrol

• 2012–2016 2.0L inline-four turbo N20B20 in 528i, producing 241 hp at 5,000–6,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 1,250–4,800 rpm.

• 2009–2017 3.0L inline-six turbo N55B30 in 535i, producing 302 hp at 5,800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 1,200–5,000 rpm.

• 2009–2013 4.4L turbocharged V8 N63B44 in 550i, producing 402 hp at 5,500–6,400 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 1,750–4,500 rpm.

• 2014–2017 4.4L turbocharged V8 N63B44 in 550i, producing 444 hp at 5,500–6,400 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 1,750–4,500 rpm.

• 2012–2016 4.4L turbocharged V8 S63B44TU in M5, producing 553 hp at 6,000–7,000 rpm and 502 lb-ft of torque at 1,500–5,700 rpm.

• 2011-2016 3.0L inline-six turbo N55B30 with electric motor in ActiveHybrid 5, producing a total of 335 hp at 5,800 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque at 1,200–5,000 rpm.

Diesel

As we mentioned above, BMW never sold the 518d and 520d in the North American market, so the diesel models sold in the U.S. were the 525d, 530d, 535d, and the M550d.

• 2010–2011 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in 525d, producing 201 hp at 4,000 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque at 1,750–2,500 rpm.

• 2011–2016 2.0L inline-four turbo N47D20 in 525d, producing 215 hp at 4,400 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque at 1,500–2,500 rpm.

• 2009–2011 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in 530d, producing 241 hp at 4,000 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 1,750–3,000 rpm.

• 2011–2017 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in 530d, producing 255 hp at 4,000 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 1,500–3,000 rpm.

• 2010–2012 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in 535d, producing 255 hp at 4,000 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 1,500–3,000 rpm.

• 2011–2017 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in 535d, producing 308 hp at 4,400 rpm and 465 lb-ft of torque at 1,500–2,500 rpm.

• 2012–2016 3.0L inline-six turbo N57D30 in M550d, producing 375 hp at 4,000–4,400 rpm and 546 lb-ft of torque at 2,000–3,000 rpm.

Gearbox Options:

The standard BMW F10 models were sold with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed ZF automatic. The M5, meanwhile, offered a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Luckily, there was also the option of a 6-speed manual for customers in the North American market. 

Trim Levels and Packages

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The F10 featured a host of features and technology as standard, but like with every BMW, there were multiple additional elements that you could equip your car with. The car was available in three trim levels — SE, Luxury, and M Sport. SE included most amenities, including dual-zone climate control and a 6.5-inch iDrive touchscreen system; Luxury offered more tech and features, while M Sport came with more aerodynamic bodywork and sportier interiors. 

Additionally, you could also equip the F10 with some add-on packages:

• Cold Weather Package — retractable headlight washers, 3-stage heated front, and rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.

• Driver Assistance Package — parking assistant, automatic high beams, a lane departure warning system, and active blind-spot detection.

• Premium Package — Dakota leather upholstery, automatic dimming interior lights, interior ambiance lighting, integrated garage door opener. 

• Sport Package — higher top speed limiter, sport wheels, Shadowline exterior trim, and 3-spoke sport steering wheel.

Special Versions

This generation of BMW 5-series featured a few special versions in its lineup. Aside from the expected and highly anticipated M5, there was also an ActiveHybrid 5 F10. The introduction of the latter hinted a permanent change of course for the Bavarian automaker, which is now already producing all-electric cars. 

BMW F10 M5

The BMW M5 (F10) was powered by an iteration of the turbocharged V8 BMW S63 engine. Peak output figures were 553 hp produced between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and 502 lb-ft of torque delivered from 1,500 to 5,750 rpm. This was a seriously quick machine and clocked a 0-62mph time of just 4.4 seconds. BMW electronically limited its top speed, and for good reason, to 155 mph. With a bit of money, you could get your hands on the M Driver’s Package, which took that number up to 190mph.

As we mentioned earlier, the M5 came with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The German manufacturer also offered a 6-speed manual in the U.S. market, and if money isn’t an option, this is all the car you’ll probably ever need. 

ActiveHybrid 5

The ActiveHybrid 5 is the first hybrid to be a part of the 5 Series and is based on the 535i Sedan. It features a synchronous electric motor integrated into the housing of the automatic gearbox. Along with the turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine from the 535i, it produced a total of 335 hp at 5,800 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque at 1,200–5,000 rpm. 

Unfortunately, this wasn’t a very successful model. BMW claimed that the car was capable of an electric-only range of only about 4 km, basically rendering it useless. The ActiveHybrid 5 cost notably more than the 535i that it was based on but offered only marginally better efficiency. For that reason, it’s not a car that we recommend you buy. 

Is BMW F10 Reliable? 

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Yes, the BMW F10 is a largely reliable car. It’s the most recent iteration of the 5-Series, barring the G30 currently on sale, and BMW did a great job producing a sophisticated, trustworthy machine. However, some models in the F10 lineup were powered by somewhat problematic engines, like the N63, and these cars may occasionally cause problems. 

Pre-Purchase Inspection — Known Issues

Like all cars, the BMW F10 does have its fair share of common problems, and spotting some of them before buying your vehicle will save you a lot of money. 

Timing Chain Issue (N20 and N63)

The timing chains on thousands of early production N20 engines were faulty owing to a defective polycarbonate composition used in the manufacturing process. This caused the timing chains to fail sooner than expected and resulted in significant damage to the engine. 

BMW took notice of the issue and redesigned the component completely. To support owners whose vehicles were equipped with the faulty timing chains, it offered an extended 7-year/70,000-mile warranty on the part for cars produced before 2015. 

The only BMW F10 model affected by this issue is the BMW 528i. If you’re in the market for one, you should confirm with the previous owner that their car wasn’t affected, or was sorted out on time. Check if the part has been replaced for the redesigned one and if the warranty still covers it. If not, it’s best that you avoid purchasing the vehicle as the timing chain can cost you a considerable chunk of money to replace. 

The easiest way to spot a faulty timing chain is to take the car out for a quick spin and see if you hear a whining noise from the engine. Physically inspecting the timing chain for scratching or excess slack should also indicate an imminent timing chain failure. While these issues are somewhat normal on older timing chains nearing the replacement interval, you should take them seriously. 

While it’s not as prevalent an issue, faulting timing chains and premature failure were also reported on N63 powered BMWs. The symptoms are similar, so you should know what to look for. 

Valve Cover and Valve Cover Gasket (N20 and N55)

The N20 and N55 use a plastic composite valve cover and a rubber valve cover gasket. Given the raw materials of these components, they are prone to wear over time. Since they sit very close to the engine, they are subject to multiple high-temperature cycles, and this causes them to harden and crack eventually. 

When a valve cover or gasket cracks or breaks, it can result in an oil leak. If this happens, you should be able to see smoke come out from the engine bay — this could be a result of leaking oil dripping onto one of the high-temperature components around the engine. 

A small leak won’t result in any significant damage. However, if left unaddressed, it can cause premature wear of your engine components. 

Water Pump Failure (N55 and N63) 

A water pump failure is something that affects all BMW models. That said, it’s most prominent on the BMW N55 and N63 powered F10 models. The worst part is that there’s no way of spotting an impending water pump failure unless it’s electrical. In such a case, you will be able to check for a drop in coolant flow, 

The N63 has an electric auxiliary water pump that controls coolant flow to the turbos when the engine is off. This pump would sometimes crack on older versions of the engine and cause the coolant to leak onto the electronics. Unsurprisingly, this can have serious consequences. 

VANOS Solenoid Failure (N55) 

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VANOS is BMW’s variable valve timing system, and it’s at work every time your engine is running. The VANOS system employs solenoids to help adjust valve timing, and, understandably, they will wear out in time. 

On a poorly maintained engine, the solenoids can become coated in oil, resulting in more severe problems for the engine. If there’s something wrong with the VANOS on your car, you’ll likely face a significant drop in performance or find yourself restricted to limp mode.

Battery Drain (N63)

To try and improve fuel efficiency, BMW equipped the N63 with a system that intermittently shut down alternator output. In regular cars, the battery is charged by the turning of the belts during normal driving. However, on the N63, the battery would recharge only while coasting — foot off the gas and not on the brake. Clearly, this was a problem as there aren’t too many people out there who’ll choose to coast with an N63 under the hood of their car. This resulted in the batteries draining quite quickly. 

BMW attempted to fix this by equipping affected models with a larger battery, but since the alternator technology still remained, it’s something that still causes owners problems. This forced BMW to change the recommended oil service interval from 15,000 miles to 10,000 miles, where a new battery is fitted along with the service. 

Excess Oil Consumption (N63)

It’s normal for a turbocharged engine to consume more oil than a comparable naturally-aspirated unit. However, normal doesn’t really describe how much oil the can N63 consume in some instances. Multiple factors have resulted in excess oil consumption on the N63, so it’s particularly challenging to address.

Technicians have found that some of the most common reasons behind the higher oil consumption levels are piston ring failures, turbocharger oil seal or crankcase vent hose leaks, or a cracked valve stem seal. 

A BMW engine can consume about a quart of oil every 1,000 miles according to the manufacturer. Some N63 owners have reported that their engines use up that much, roughly half the distance!

BMW released new valve guides with tighter clearances and offered a free replacement to existing owners to rectify this. However, this is a labor-intensive task and takes about 12 hours to complete by trained technicians. 

High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (HPFP)

Check one of the many BMW F10 forums for common problems, and you’ll find multiple owners complaining about issues with the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) on their car. Like on any vehicle, this fuel pump carries fuel to the engine and, as you can imagine, is quite problematic if it fails. 

Some tell-tale signs of a faulty fuel pump are a notable drop in performance or an unnaturally long crank time when starting up. 

Additionally, a failed fuel pump should also light up the check engine symbol on the dash. 

Which BMW F10 to Get?

Which BMW F10 5-Series you pick comes down to what you’re looking for from the car. If you want an executive sedan that gets you from one point to another, then one of the entry-level models, like the 528i or 528d, should do more than suffice. You may also be able to get your hands on a used 535i GT for just a bit more money, and you’ll be thankful for the added performance and space that it has to offer.

Beyond this, things get a little expensive and somewhat hardcore. Cars like the 550i and M550d are extremely rewarding and fun machines to drive, but they’re also more costly to buy and maintain. 

In our opinion, the 535i or 535d is the sweet spot if you’re looking for a car that’s a perfect balance between executive comfort and driving pleasure. 

Maintenance Is Key 

Whichever model of the BMW F10 you decide to get, one thing is for certain — regular maintenance is a must! The only way to keep your Bimmer happy is to feed it quality lubricants, filters, and occasionally parts. 

Here at Bimmers.com, we offer one of the largest catalogs of Genuine, OEM and quality aftermarket parts for any BMW. Head over to our shop, select your car from the drop-down menu, and you’ll be presented with all components that fit your vehicle. It’s that easy!