Models · BMW
BMW 5 Series F10/F11 buying guide
The F10 saloon and F11 Touring were built from 2010 to 2017, with a facelift in 2013. Diesels dominate the UK market, and the 2014 change from the N47 to the B47 four-cylinder diesel decides one of the main checks.
The versions
- Four-cylinder diesels: 518d and 520d (N47 to 2014, then B47), and the twin-turbo four-cylinder 525d from 2011
- Six-cylinder diesels: 530d (N57, 245PS, then 258PS), 535d (299PS, then 313PS), M550d xDrive (381PS)
- Petrols: 520i and 528i (N20 2.0 turbo), 535i (N55 3.0 straight six, 306PS), 550i (N63 4.4 twin-turbo V8, 408PS, then 450PS from the facelift)
- Saloon (F10) and Touring (F11); xDrive on some versions; an ActiveHybrid 5 also existed but isn't covered here
- 6-speed manual or 8-speed ZF automatic
What to check on a F10 5 Series
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Chain rattle on the earlier diesels
What to look for: On a diesel built before late 2014, start from cold and listen for a repeated rattling or tapping from the engine. Ask for any invoice for timing chain work.
Why it matters: On the earlier diesels the timing chain and its tensioner can wear prematurely, and the chain stretches before it fails. It sits at the rear of the engine, so it's a big job to replace. Many cars have had the work done, and an invoice is valuable.
EGR cooler recall on diesels
What to look for: Ask the seller or a BMW dealer to confirm by VIN that the EGR cooler recall work has been done. Note any coolant loss the seller mentions.
Why it matters: BMW recalled 5 Series diesels built from March 2011 to December 2017 because the EGR cooler could leak coolant, which combined with the heat of the system could cause a fire risk. The campaign was extended, so confirmation by VIN is the reliable check.
Engine bolt recall on early cars
What to look for: On a car built before November 2011, ask for evidence of the engine bolt recall, and watch for an engine management light on the drive.
Why it matters: Four engine bolts on early cars may need replacing, because if they come loose oil can leak into a sensitive area and trigger the engine warning light. It's a free fix and most have been done.
Also in the full guide
- Noises from the steering and suspension
- Adaptive dampers
- Air conditioning
- Automatic gearbox at low speed
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F10 5 Series
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
BMW 5 Series E34 · BMW 5 Series E39 · BMW 5 Series E60/E61 · BMW 5 Series G30/G31
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.