E39 autoboxes - are they really that bad?

[anothere21323i]

I've reached a pretty sad conclusion - my E30 325i Touring really isn't the most practical car for everyday use and commuting. I'm certainly not going to sell it, nor my M52B28 powered Touring, but instead they can be used for fun at weekends.

So what to use for the commute instead? I reckon an E39 530i would be ideal for the long journeys that I do. But it seems that whilst there are still a lot of nice, well maintained and well looked after examples for sale, very few are manuals. I'd much prefer a manual but given the number of autos available, some of which I've looked at are really lovely, are they worth considering? I've heard some horror stories about the autoboxes dying at 100k miles without oil changes despite the 'sealed for life' claim, and pretty steep replacement cost - more than the car will be worth.

What's everybody's experiences? Worth it or too risky?

[DanThe]

Unless its been well past 100k without an oil change they are usually ok, so much better than the earlier 4 speed box, I wouldnt want a manual in such a large car TBH
I dropped the oil in mine at 70k odd miles and while there were some dark patches in the bottom of the sump it wasnt too dirty at all, 50k oil service IMO

This is banger money if you could live with a 2.5 -

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BMW-E39-523-E ... 4d0c4763d2

[anothere21323i]

Good point Dan, I did wonder if it was just a case of an unlucky few people out there or whether it was high risk. I've looked at some really nice, low mileage one owner cars and wonder if I shouldn't just go for it. Even the nice SE models are nearly banger money!

[ross_jsy]

Loved the tiptronic auto in my 528i. Really suited the car. Shame it shat itself at 80k though. Wouldn't go into reverse which is apparently quite a common problem.

[Brianmoooore]

250,000 mile+ on my 528i and no sign of any 'box problems. No sign of the oil ever having been changed in the fairly comprehensive history.
The one in Dan's link looks like it has a Prins VSI LPG ststem - the best.

[Simon13]

my sisters 525 is on 110k now doubt its had the oil changed and works fine. Its towed an e34 touring once too!

[anothere21323i]

Hmmm it would seem that I am now fully tempted - especially after seeing Dan's 540 Touring this morning

[TSM3]

You won't be disappointed - i have a 530i sport auto. It's on 86k and I haven't touched the gearbox oil yet but am tempted to get it changed for peace of mind.

It's been a very reliable car, apart from a camshaft sensor I've not had to change any other major parts.

I'd recommend the 3 litre over the 2.5 if you like swift progress.

Keep thinking I should sell it but just can't bring myself to do it!

[anothere21323i]

Hmm. I've been looking at a few late model 530i Sport auto Champagne limited editions - very

[pacerpete]

Tony, you sick cooont !
I have a 2000 523 touring in montreal with grey leatherzz. It is a manual and pretty tidy with cold A/C , working pdc, multi function M tech wheel (innit) tow bar etc. It has MOT till November BUT needs tyres,, has rear light issues and ABS/traction lights glowing. Its on the button, drives OK and is cheap

[anothere21323i]

Peter - you know I am a sick man with an addiction to BMW related scrap!

Thanks for the kind offer, but alas I have pretty much done a deal on a very clean and tidy 'big block' E39 beast. More to follow..........

[pacerpete]

Peter - you know I am a sick man with an addiction to BMW related scrap!

Thanks for the kind offer, but alas I have pretty much done a deal on a very clean and tidy 'big block' E39 beast. More to follow..........

You foooking executive / council scummer !

[anothere21323i]

You can take the boy out of the council estate....... You know the rest!