The trouble with aging high-performance beemers, is that when you are driving them you worry about the old bill and when you are not you worry about the new bill.
It's true, the same thing happened to me with the three Jaguars I owned. But I think that I put out negative energy in the world and it did come back at me. Luckily in my case with the Jaguars it was all common stuff like the air suspension on my Jaguar XJ, and with the BMW there's so many resources and forums. That being said I will never own another car that is not under warranty or leased. My current car a brand new Mini Cooper S while only 14000 miles has been trouble-free except for the airbag light but I do not want to own it out of warranty...
Big BMW diesels are absolute monster cars, huge fuel economy and huge performance. Nobody needs more car than a 530D or a 640D if you're feeling luxurious.
I had one of these until 2010. Amazing car. Quite fancy another. Mine had “comfort” seats which are easily the best seats I’ve had on a car. They’re a pretty rare option I think, but worth seeking out.
Like a lot of people here, I'd consume a lot of car content from every corner of the internet. I think a lot will agree with me, whether they've been watching you for a long time or this is their first video, that you are consistently producing some of the highest quality automotive content available. Thanks for sharing your passion Matt, keep doing what you're doing.
I just bought a 530d that had a new engine 60k miles ago. The previous owner drove through a ford and the engine hydro locked. He loved the car that much he bought it back from the insurance and put a new engine in it. All of the preventative maintenance has been done and now I'm going to enjoy it for a few year, it's fast and comfortable 👌🔥
It's hard to summarise cars like this if you haven't experienced this engine. We have an E92 330D, 2010. The auto/245bhp model. I would trust it to the tip of Italy, even though it has done 135K. It feels so solid and dependable if you keep up the service schedule which should include a good hiding/run-out every so often to clear out the EGR. The foot down smile response/MPG is a joke and is hard to convey to someone that drives a 'normal' car. Like you said, people that require space/reliability/economy always look elsewhere, usually the MPV market which seldom provides any value for money, let alone a smile or luxury/quality option along these lines.
do you know what to look out for when buying these? I'm looking at a higher mileage lci 330d at the moment. I've heard the timing chain can be an issue if not replaced?
@@nihal467 if it has good service history then timing chain shouldn't be an issue. The 3 litre engines really didn't have those issues. Only the 2 litres did. I have an 09 330d lci saloon with 122k miles
I've got one it's was on my list of cars to have and I did a 270 mile trip yesterday. Running 350hp and driving it enthusiastically still achieved 36 mpg. Best all rounder ever
My uncle had one of these years ago, 535D with a “cheeky remap” & EGR Delete. Pulled like a train 🚂 and he hit something like 235,000 miles before p/x it for something else, never let him down and surprised a lot of sportier cars on the right roads 😏😌👌🏼
Don't understand why people shun estate cars now for those massive lifted jallopies. But I think the people who buy Quashqis and Tiguans aren't too bothered about driving 🤔
Nope, to be fair 90% of people couldn’t begin to even give half a shit about cars. In the same way I have zero interest in football or golf, they just don’t interest me. Hence the explosion of bubble SUVs...
I like the practicality of the estate, Unfortunately, it's all about the image . I've been told that estates are an older people's car. Think estates, think OAP 😕. People want something that exudes the razzmatazz of driving.
Great review. I had one (2.0D) for 10 years and sold it with 225,000 miles. Very reliable, economical and incredibly useful car. Never felt big when driving it - they seem to shrink when you get in them.
Love your approach to fettling cars and getting them ship shape. Good for the environment too. I'm on with a Volvo V50 T5 AWD and slowly sorting it. Great videos, short and snappy with loads of good advice and humour thrown in for free.
Got an e60 530d 2005 with 76k miles and only 1 owner before me from new. Came with DPF delete and remap, fitted a hydrogen fuel additive system to it to reduce emissions/smoke, boost performance and improve fuel efficiency. Removed swirl flaps. Running around 300hp, had powerful cars before but this thing is ridiculous. Runs and drives like new, I have had the turbo refurbished (lady owner before me who had the DPF deleted so likely linked). Unbelievably comfy on long runs, astonishingly quick for a diesel and no, this isn't an advert, shes a keeper 😉😎 Offers over 4k 😁
100% agree with the kick you get out of project cars. I love getting older cars and bringing them back into spec. A lot of satisfaction from driving around in a mint 15 year old car.
I’ve had a 535D Touring LCI for 8 years had the DPF removed and swirl flaps a bigger intercooler with Eco Tune Remap and egr delete , have now done 260000 miles , I’ve had a few issues usual electrical stuff but major mechanicals are pretty much bullet proof with regular gearbox and engine oil changes , running about 380 bhp 565 ftlbs , the thing is still a flying machine , my golden rule is never thrash a cold engine it gives longevity rewards , I still love this car !
@@johnysilvester8483 Hi i changed the crank pulley some vac pipes at circa 250K as worn, main radiator pipe and throttle body at around 350K miles. Obviously oil & filters very frequently.
Awesome cars. The missus has recently taken to driving ours more regularly than her usual little run around she has and she doesn't do .big cars' normally. But even she has come back after going to work in it and commented on how quick and smooth it is with a slight smirk on her face! The engine is a torque monster. I know you're not a fan of remaps, but recently did my F11 535d from stock 313bhp and 460 ft lb and it's now chucking out 380bhp 530 ft lb and the performance is astonishing. Then you have the added bonus of a car with close to 400bhp that still gets me 35mpg round town and 47mpg on a run. Truly the best of both worlds. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to seeing how this one comes along.
I remember when I first went in a 535d when they were a few years old. Felt really quick back then and definitely quickest diesel I been in at the time
I think it's a case of us getting used to a lot more vulgar styling that comes out these days with the new 4 series for example so then the old e60 wasn't that bad 😂
Chris bangle did an amazing job these things are beautiful especially the wagon, I see one maybe once a month and I drive like 2000 miles a month and I always give them a thumbs-up, they are stunning I would love to buy one someday
I have exactly the same age, type and colour with all the same bits and bobs to do (plus a few more that you'll probably discover as well), had it for 13 years best car I've ever had. This series might just be the incentive I need to get started and getting it back into shape
Love these big old barges! Great performance considering how long ago it was. BMW really set the bar high for future diesel engine manufacturers with that beauty!
The problem with leaving everything in your pockets when driving is (all wearers of joggers will know this) everything falls out down the side of the seats
Always loved these. This new styling from circa 2002 looked atrocious imo on the saloon but sits and looks much better on the estate. It has poise, grace and the grunt. The traffic police have been using these for quite a while. The estate is beautiful. I would pick one of these up any day for £2000!
if you have a good scanner you scan the instrument cluster it will tell you when you had oil changes and how much oil was changed, i was amazed to see it all logged in the car computer it gives you the milage and amount drained and re-filled it might even give you the date aswell it does it on my old mercs from 2001 so i imagine the beemer will do it too, i use just a basic carsoft scanner 100 quids worth. it really helps when there is no records
I bought a fully loaded F11 530d a few months ago, that was first owned by BMW and I love it. It’s practical, luxurious and goes like stink in sport or sport+ mode. I especially like the dynamic handling package that makes it corner with barely any body roll and for such a big car it can hustle. I too want to get the ZF8 speed box serviced, as there’s a slight whine in second and third gears, however it still works fine at 89k miles.
I looked for a BMW E61 for about 9 months about a year ago and most of them I encountered were around 100k miles and thoroughly thrashed. The mileage wasn't worrisome but the conditions were concerning. Even though I'm very familiar with these cars from working at a BMW dealership for 14 years I also knew what to look for when inspecting which scared me off of most of them. Frustrated I finally found a 2010 Volvo V70 R-design which handles nearly as well as the BMW but, hopefully, will cost less to maintain with the reliable 3.2. It had a great service history which sold me. Keep us posted on this one.
@@smarte.r.1450 He was born in to money, his dad's absolutely loaded. Also he likes to make people think he's broke (by continually saying he's broke) despite the big house, the multiple cars, being able to shrug off huge repair bills, etc. I wouldn't say he's a snob anymore but he's definitely a rich kid with a rich kid mentality and I'm not a fan. Call me jealous because who wouldn't be? However I lost interest in his channel as soon as it was apparent that he's just another loaded guy showing off. I love car enthusiasm but only from more down to earth youtubers such as daddydoug who is nowhere near as showy.
@@archechme if hoovie wasn’t into to cars he’d be a stamp collector or a train spotter been the anorak nerd he is, I wonder how much he paid for his foreign bride?…😃
Stated 0-60 on the pre LCI at least was 6.5s, not under 6 but damned impressive all the same. Wouldn't tune one as gearboxes are at their limit I seem to recall. A BMW service guy told me after I'd got shot of mine that BM had a flurry of warranty claims on knackered 'boxes and each one had been tinkered with and they were all refused. That was the car that made me realised I was going to kill myself driving so I got rid of it - although so much stuff is so fast these days without even trying but I remember that bringing the nutcase out in me.
Hit and miss with these, my 400tkm e61 530d runs like a clock, the gearbox wasn't working the best when i bought it but an oil change and additive sorted it. Right after drove to Copenhagen and back with my friend, 4000km without a single worry.
I have one of these. Had it for 6 years (head up display/sunroof/19in rims). It will be the best car I shall ever own. These cars need a very good mechanic but if looked after well, not many cars will keep up. Glasgow to London in the fast lane and still fuel left. Will have to sell soon as I live in London and ulez is coming. Will be keeping the faith and get an F11 535d 😎
I agree with the 2002 7 series & latest 4 series being questionable to say the least but the e60/61 has aged exceptionally well. It’s a very handsome, smart looking car especially in touring form.
for the brake judder on my e92 I spent just over a thousand... discs, pads, calipers, fluid... nothing front control arms (upper and lower)... made the problem less obvious now next is rear control arms... if that doesn't fix it I'll just live with it
@@meer-cha4985 I once had a similar prob on a car. Replaced nearly everything. In the end found out it was one of the front wheels that had a very slight buckle to it.
This was one of those cars that when BMW released it I wasn't a fan. Very bold headlight design for example. Bit now I'm a little bit older and wiser it's an awesome looking car
Pockets… …are for a handkerchief 😌 I also use the cup holders for general storage - “999 things to store in a cup holder, other than a cup” would be the title of my book. Gorgeous car and great buy - thanks for the video! Take care and God bless!
So what are we saying Matt, that after you have titivated this car, when your thinking of selling it on you'll be asking what £4.5 grand or maybe £5 grand which considering the mileage sounds a pretty good offering price for an estate that could easily be converted and yes I am still looking for an estate worth making into a camper vehicle and what is on offer up in my neck of the woods doesn't please me.
I bought one of these - £7k low mileage "FSH" - but quite a few bits of missed service as it turns out! Swirl flaps, glow plugs, gearbox service, few other bits.. £2k (ouch) so £9k all in.. But it's a superb drive, fast, quiet - 6 cylinder smoothness, (unless you boot it, then it sounds like a lorry engine!) 30-35 MPG probably normal - I got 40 on a congested 200 mile trip up the M5/M6 at 60. At the moment I can see nothing I'd rather have as a family car.
I had this shape of 5 series albeit a 520d Saloon. The interior felt old and I hated the fact the wipers were set for left hand drive! Having said that, it was comfortable and reliable.
Nice to see someone who says it has it should be said 👌🏻👌🏻very simple honest review and a great opinion 👍🏻 why do people buy nissan cashquai,s and Vauxhall zaferas when you could buy a 535 estate 🤔🤔 it's baffling.....
In my part of Eastern Europe where I live, incomes are a fair bit lower, so young guys can only afford much older cars arriving crash damaged from the USA or well used from Western Europe. The brand that most choose is BMW because with reasonable mechanical skills and the huge pool of second hand parts they can be kept going to a great age and still look good and drive well. A diesel car with 250,000k on the clock is seem as pretty new and even after getting 'too old' here at say 400k, many go in to further lives in places further east and south! This logic even follows through to the most popular old British car being the BMW engined Rover 75.
You are so right in why so many great cars get crushed. Their trade value falls to a couple of £K and they cease to be serviced…… end. Prestige cars, which are not supercars, fare badly, which is a shame.
Had a 530d e60 98k 2005 loads SH etc was really to drive and engine sounded good for a diesel -but oh the fault codes and Xmas tree dash board and then finally the head gasket went, never again……
I've got an '07 530i M-Sport manual. Really great, practical car, that handles well and is nice and balanced, and it still looks smart. I like the 535D but the upcoming ULEZ in London ruled it out.
I had a 1996 E36 325tds touring ,20 odd years ago. I remember then getting regularly tannoyed at petrol stations with the attendant saying 'escuse me sir but your putting diesel in your car' BMW diesel cars were rare then. It was a brilliant car just like this 5 series touring.
I miss my 535d. Was the same - 2006 msport and loaded with options. Amazing car and the torque is amazing. I had mine under BMW warranty for the whole time I had it, so was in amazing condition. How’s your DPF? Please tell me you like the articulation of the wipers!!!!!! Best ever!
I have a 2007 LCI version which has had a few tweaks, and it's bananas! Such a powerhouse the M57 engine. Also Matt, the wheel wobble could be a few things....check out the discs for any warping, and also the front control/thrust arms. Apart from that, the vibration under load could be the prop shaft bearing and/or doughnut. Good luck with the project I'm really looking forward to seeing the progress!
Not a particular fan of BMW, or silver cars, but it definitely works in the estate format. You have to love a car that is understated and practical, yet "goes like stink". A real tempter...
Tailgate issues? I had one of these and it used to open the tailgate whilst driving...kind of unnerving. I git it fixed but then the split rear window release stopped working. Other than that a great car. Serviced it every year with fully synthetic oil and filters and it never gave me any troubles. Sold it to auction, and replaced with a BMW 640 D Gran coupe. Now THAT'S a car.....
Flutter could be the early signs of the torque converter - do the revs fluctuate at speed? Other comments are right on the front lower arm bushes. Don't be tempted to polybush, I went through a set in a year. If you can wait, Autodoc stock the bushes and take a look when England are playing in Euro 2020 as they've been doing 40% discount codes. A Hunter alignment and Hunter Road Force Balance work wonders too. Filters were Mann + Hummel on the E60/E61 (Meyle on F10/F11) so get the same filters and part numbers for half the price without the BMW stamp. If you want genuine parts, Cotswold BMW will post value line parts (same filters but cheaper so they still make margin on Value Line servicing). Don't forget the rear differential oil either! I have just over a litre of the right spec left over, you're welcome to it. I know you won't forget a transmission service...
Great car! I can’t believe it doesn’t have a few more niggles waiting for you…rear looms, front wind screen wiper, blocked rear drainage channels. For 3years always parked facing down hill haha otherwise battery bay would fill with water on heavy rain haha. Looks good though!!
I'm on my 5th BMW in a row one of which was admittedly a vogue. I've currently got a moon mileage F11 and tonight you've made me want an F01 and an E61 in one sitting. Keep up the great videos. Eventually you're gonna list something I HAVE to buy.
Not a BMW fan but a great car, we had one of these as a works run-around and I do remember the power it had. Good old V6 twin turbo.........fantastic comination.
I had one of these years ago and one of the rear suspension arms snapped without warning on the motorway at 70mph sending the car into a fishtail, luckily I got it controlled and trailered home. Dpf also blocked up on it, a large sds drill and 3 holes sorted that problem out though. Worth checking / deleting swirl flaps on the intake also. Still liked the car though even after all the things that happened it.
Absolutely agree with you, it doesn't make much sense going for something tiguan related. It's no cheaper on yearly running costs, the quality isn't that great and crucially you're never 'proud' of a Qashqai or Tiguan. As an all rounder the large x35d BMW models, with some options ticked, are about the best you can get for the Reliability, Economy and Performance trifector. I am biased though driving a 435d Gran Coupe Xdrive though which has 360bhp and still does 45mpg, whilst getting to 60 in 4 seconds.
I loved my 2007 535d M Sport. I had the DPF and egr removed and an ecotune downpipe mod put on. It was remapped on a rolling road. H&R anti roll bars, QUAIFE LSD. Left the shocks and springs standard. I put Michelin Pilot supersports all round (got rid of the run flat tyres which were horrible). It had 386 bhp / 545 lb/ft. It was a superb supple ride and it handled and gripped amazingly. Probably my favourite car I’ve owned and I’ve owned some exotic cars. The E60 is a superb car. The model that followed it wasn’t as nice imho. I bought one and sold it. Mine absolutely flew down the road. My mate couldn’t live with me in his Jaguar F type !!! I sold mine for £13,250 in 2015 with 58,000 miles on it. I recommend these cars they really are brilliant cars. Darren Wood BMW Stockport were good back in the day. Check them out. Birds BMW in Iver are the best in the business. I would go back to one of these if I could find a low mileage one. There was a 2008 one for sale in Ireland a few months back..one owner from new and full history with low miles..it was so tempting..whoever bought that got a beauty..it had the aluminium dash trim and paino black trim. The interior was mint on it. I must emphasise the pilot supersports are a dream tyre for this car, coupled with the quaife LSD and H&R anti roll bars front and rear, you really have got the ultimate road car. I actually got 170 mph out of mine one afternoon (not public highway of course!! My mate was a witness). According to my dash, I was getting 28 mpg but that was a fair bit of spirited driving. In late 2015, I went into an E350 (65 plate) diesel bluetec estate after this and it was totally different…gutless and wallowy like a 1980s Range Rover. The steering was nowhere near as nice on the Merc. I do miss owning a Beema. If this was a keeper and lower miles, Id put better brakes on it. The weak points on this car are definitely the front discs and pads and also the drive shafts.
I couldn’t agree more about getting satisfaction out of rescuing cars of this age that are “on the brink” - cars from the mid 90s on generally took a massive leap forward in durability and lifespan potential, but so many people still think of a car with 100,000 miles on the clock as “worn out”. That’s why I love my 2005 Peugeot 407 that I picked up for lunch money - I would happily swap it for that BMW though 😂👍
I change oil and filters on my A5 TDI every 2 years myself and I make around 2500miles a year. The problem is that potential buyers don't see any stamps in the service book :)
I’ve got one and love it. Genuinely see nothing else to replace it with. They do have their issues but all cars do. I think the biggest misconception with these are because it’s a diesel, you can just run and run them. They are to a point but with 280bhp standard or close to 400hp with a remap they are practical sportswagons and need to be looked after. I’ve never seen 45mpg either. Probably not helped because I run bigger wheels with performance tyres (currently PS4’s) rather than those that are more economy focused. Anyway, you have a new subscriber and will be interested to see where you go with this.
I really enjoy watching your videos ! They've helped me alot making decisions. If I can just chip in on a comment you made whilst explaining how the twin turbo system works.. you said it was advanced and clever for 2004,. But Porsche introduced the world to the sequential twin turbo with the 959 in 1986. Skyline GTRs and Celica/supra and rx7s used them in the 90s perfecting the design with ceramic turbos and variable valve timing.
Great content as ever Matt, had a 535d touring with a remap for 4 years, apart from minor faults as you’d expect from anything mechanical it was a fantastic car and hugely capable, a real wolf in sheep’s clothing. I’ve had and driven fast cars and can say with some authority… they are quick! And thanks to your good self and a popular video by Harry Metcalf I’ve bought a 2010 L322 TDV8… very different by comparison but I completely agree… they just make you feel good! Keep up the good work mate 👍
3.0 diesel in E60 s until 2005 is made of cast - iron. People mount it into Nissan Patrol. That engine is so durable. Later versions are made aluminium. 3.0 diesel form 2010 has timing chain back of the engine same like N47. I repair my E60 myself. I upload all movies to my channel.
I love those cars. I had a 2007 E60 535d for a couple of years and traded it in for an E61 M5. I absolutely adored that car (the M5) and regret the day, every day, I sold it.
I like your care free way of presenting cars thrown in with the occasional sarcastic comment. Are you not worried that the transport secretary is restricting use of these vehicles in london as it does not comply with ULEZ? Please let me know your thoughts on this as I am now thinking of getting rid of the Qashqai to pick this one up!
The trouble with aging high-performance beemers, is that when you are driving them you worry about the old bill and when you are not you worry about the new bill.
Lol quality 😁
It's true, the same thing happened to me with the three Jaguars I owned. But I think that I put out negative energy in the world and it did come back at me. Luckily in my case with the Jaguars it was all common stuff like the air suspension on my Jaguar XJ, and with the BMW there's so many resources and forums. That being said I will never own another car that is not under warranty or leased. My current car a brand new Mini Cooper S while only 14000 miles has been trouble-free except for the airbag light but I do not want to own it out of warranty...
Ha ha 😂
Big BMW diesels are absolute monster cars, huge fuel economy and huge performance. Nobody needs more car than a 530D or a 640D if you're feeling luxurious.
Yeah with monster repair bills to match.
@@asensibleyoungman2978 foolish
@@Alexander_l322 You'd be foolish to buy one.
@@asensibleyoungman2978 no not really
@@asensibleyoungman2978 M57 is pretty bulletproof engine.
I had one of these until 2010. Amazing car. Quite fancy another. Mine had “comfort” seats which are easily the best seats I’ve had on a car. They’re a pretty rare option I think, but worth seeking out.
Had them in a same era X5, they hugged you When you started the car, felt quite fancy!
Hear lots of good things about the comfort seats, it’s hard to imagine a more comfortable seat than the sports seats in my 535 so they must be amazing
That ending 🤣 Wallet will be opened and contents forcibly removed
Like a lot of people here, I'd consume a lot of car content from every corner of the internet. I think a lot will agree with me, whether they've been watching you for a long time or this is their first video, that you are consistently producing some of the highest quality automotive content available. Thanks for sharing your passion Matt, keep doing what you're doing.
Thank you for your feedback and support. I appreciate it. Cheers
I just bought a 530d that had a new engine 60k miles ago. The previous owner drove through a ford and the engine hydro locked. He loved the car that much he bought it back from the insurance and put a new engine in it. All of the preventative maintenance has been done and now I'm going to enjoy it for a few year, it's fast and comfortable 👌🔥
It's hard to summarise cars like this if you haven't experienced this engine. We have an E92 330D, 2010. The auto/245bhp model. I would trust it to the tip of Italy, even though it has done 135K. It feels so solid and dependable if you keep up the service schedule which should include a good hiding/run-out every so often to clear out the EGR.
The foot down smile response/MPG is a joke and is hard to convey to someone that drives a 'normal' car. Like you said, people that require space/reliability/economy always look elsewhere, usually the MPV market which seldom provides any value for money, let alone a smile or luxury/quality option along these lines.
do you know what to look out for when buying these? I'm looking at a higher mileage lci 330d at the moment. I've heard the timing chain can be an issue if not replaced?
@@nihal467 There's a channel called Road and Race where he fixes up the common faults on them in detail.
they are great engines, i have a E91 330D and it has nearly 253000 miles and would also trust it to go to Italy too!!!
@@jayscarworld4513 good to know!
@@nihal467 if it has good service history then timing chain shouldn't be an issue. The 3 litre engines really didn't have those issues. Only the 2 litres did. I have an 09 330d lci saloon with 122k miles
I've got one it's was on my list of cars to have and I did a 270 mile trip yesterday. Running 350hp and driving it enthusiastically still achieved 36 mpg. Best all rounder ever
My uncle had one of these years ago, 535D with a “cheeky remap” & EGR Delete. Pulled like a train 🚂 and he hit something like 235,000 miles before p/x it for something else, never let him down and surprised a lot of sportier cars on the right roads 😏😌👌🏼
M57 the true diesel king
@@piovo1 om606 is the king
@@TrulyUniqueOne Both are amazing engines, no need to squabble about which one is better as they're both magnificent
For me this model was one of the best looking 5 series ever,another good review Matt 👏
Don't understand why people shun estate cars now for those massive lifted jallopies. But I think the people who buy Quashqis and Tiguans aren't too bothered about driving 🤔
Nope, to be fair 90% of people couldn’t begin to even give half a shit about cars. In the same way I have zero interest in football or golf, they just don’t interest me. Hence the explosion of bubble SUVs...
I like the practicality of the estate, Unfortunately, it's all about the image . I've been told that estates are an older people's car. Think estates, think OAP 😕. People want something that exudes the razzmatazz of driving.
Tiguan is far better than crap E60 which drains wallet.
@@HorusLuperc You could not be any wronger if you tried.
Tiguans are shockingly unreliable
Great review. I had one (2.0D) for 10 years and sold it with 225,000 miles. Very reliable, economical and incredibly useful car. Never felt big when driving it - they seem to shrink when you get in them.
Love your approach to fettling cars and getting them ship shape. Good for the environment too. I'm on with a Volvo V50 T5 AWD and slowly sorting it. Great videos, short and snappy with loads of good advice and humour thrown in for free.
Got an e60 530d 2005 with 76k miles and only 1 owner before me from new.
Came with DPF delete and remap, fitted a hydrogen fuel additive system to it to reduce emissions/smoke, boost performance and improve fuel efficiency.
Removed swirl flaps.
Running around 300hp, had powerful cars before but this thing is ridiculous.
Runs and drives like new, I have had the turbo refurbished (lady owner before me who had the DPF deleted so likely linked).
Unbelievably comfy on long runs, astonishingly quick for a diesel and no, this isn't an advert, shes a keeper 😉😎
Offers over 4k 😁
100% agree with the kick you get out of project cars. I love getting older cars and bringing them back into spec. A lot of satisfaction from driving around in a mint 15 year old car.
I’ve had a 535D Touring LCI for 8 years had the DPF removed and swirl flaps a bigger intercooler with Eco Tune Remap and egr delete , have now done 260000 miles , I’ve had a few issues usual electrical stuff but major mechanicals are pretty much bullet proof with regular gearbox and engine oil changes , running about 380 bhp 565 ftlbs , the thing is still a flying machine , my golden rule is never thrash a cold engine it gives longevity rewards , I still love this car !
I had a 2005 535d M Sport for 15 years and PX it last year at 430,000 miles - amazing car. Rev Flutter = possible torque converter issue.
Sir can you please tell me what all parts you've changed on the engine side so far
@@johnysilvester8483 Hi i changed the crank pulley some vac pipes at circa 250K as worn, main radiator pipe and throttle body at around 350K miles. Obviously oil & filters very frequently.
Awesome cars. The missus has recently taken to driving ours more regularly than her usual little run around she has and she doesn't do .big cars' normally. But even she has come back after going to work in it and commented on how quick and smooth it is with a slight smirk on her face!
The engine is a torque monster. I know you're not a fan of remaps, but recently did my F11 535d from stock 313bhp and 460 ft lb and it's now chucking out 380bhp 530 ft lb and the performance is astonishing. Then you have the added bonus of a car with close to 400bhp that still gets me 35mpg round town and 47mpg on a run. Truly the best of both worlds.
Keep up the good work. Looking forward to seeing how this one comes along.
Thanks! I might seriously look into this
Nothing is more entertaining than these project vids, always over budget and under profit 😂
Appreciate the life you give back to these cars though!
I remember when I first went in a 535d when they were a few years old. Felt really quick back then and definitely quickest diesel I been in at the time
Great choice, controversial styling at the time but these have aged much better than the rivals from that era.
Totally agree
They looked terrible back then but great now 👍
Still prefer the E39 shape 😂
@@mishalchotai4721 I used to but not so much any more
I think it's a case of us getting used to a lot more vulgar styling that comes out these days with the new 4 series for example so then the old e60 wasn't that bad 😂
I had an E60 530d some years back, amazing car never missed a beat !!
Just watched the update video! Your optimism in this one is truly spectacular....
Chris bangle did an amazing job these things are beautiful especially the wagon, I see one maybe once a month and I drive like 2000 miles a month and I always give them a thumbs-up, they are stunning I would love to buy one someday
I have always thought an estate car was much better than SUV. It’s good to hear you have a similar view.
I have exactly the same age, type and colour with all the same bits and bobs to do (plus a few more that you'll probably discover as well), had it for 13 years best car I've ever had. This series might just be the incentive I need to get started and getting it back into shape
Love seeing this one getting the love it desserves! Good luck, subscribed
Thanks for subscribing
Love these big old barges! Great performance considering how long ago it was. BMW really set the bar high for future diesel engine manufacturers with that beauty!
The problem with leaving everything in your pockets when driving is (all wearers of joggers will know this) everything falls out down the side of the seats
Yep , happened yesterday. Nearly cancelled my bank card today because of that. My nipper found it down the side of the seat.
Always loved these. This new styling from circa 2002 looked atrocious imo on the saloon but sits and looks much better on the estate. It has poise, grace and the grunt. The traffic police have been using these for quite a while. The estate is beautiful. I would pick one of these up any day for £2000!
if you have a good scanner you scan the instrument cluster it will tell you when you had oil changes and how much oil was changed, i was amazed to see it all logged in the car computer it gives you the milage and amount drained and re-filled it might even give you the date aswell it does it on my old mercs from 2001 so i imagine the beemer will do it too, i use just a basic carsoft scanner 100 quids worth. it really helps when there is no records
I bought a fully loaded F11 530d a few months ago, that was first owned by BMW and I love it. It’s practical, luxurious and goes like stink in sport or sport+ mode. I especially like the dynamic handling package that makes it corner with barely any body roll and for such a big car it can hustle. I too want to get the ZF8 speed box serviced, as there’s a slight whine in second and third gears, however it still works fine at 89k miles.
Gonna be a bargain for some one when it’s been sorted. Great video as always.
I had the lci version from 2008. I still have fond memories of owning it!
I had 530dM 56 reg touring for 12 yrs. Mrs wrote it off. Brilliant car.
I looked for a BMW E61 for about 9 months about a year ago and most of them I encountered were around 100k miles and thoroughly thrashed. The mileage wasn't worrisome but the conditions were concerning. Even though I'm very familiar with these cars from working at a BMW dealership for 14 years I also knew what to look for when inspecting which scared me off of most of them. Frustrated I finally found a 2010 Volvo V70 R-design which handles nearly as well as the BMW but, hopefully, will cost less to maintain with the reliable 3.2. It had a great service history which sold me. Keep us posted on this one.
What did u look for I’m in the market?
Love the look of this now.... Was so ahead of its time. You are slowly turning into Tyler Hoovie! All you need now is a weee zurd😎
hopefully he doesn't because hoovie is a massive snob.
@@archechme Hoovies great entertainment and a snob?? He lives in Kansas … he started off buying crap and now can afford Frog Eyed sprites and exotica.
@@smarte.r.1450 He was born in to money, his dad's absolutely loaded. Also he likes to make people think he's broke (by continually saying he's broke) despite the big house, the multiple cars, being able to shrug off huge repair bills, etc.
I wouldn't say he's a snob anymore but he's definitely a rich kid with a rich kid mentality and I'm not a fan.
Call me jealous because who wouldn't be? However I lost interest in his channel as soon as it was apparent that he's just another loaded guy showing off.
I love car enthusiasm but only from more down to earth youtubers such as daddydoug who is nowhere near as showy.
@@archechme respect to your breakdown of your choices. For me I see it as entertainment. Pure and simple.
@@archechme if hoovie wasn’t into to cars he’d be a stamp collector or a train spotter been the anorak nerd he is, I wonder how much he paid for his foreign bride?…😃
I admire your optimism of £1500. Your paint correction friend must be a good pal 😁
Yes, I think you'd have to be in the trade to get all that work done for £1500. Joe Bloggs would have to fork out considerably more.
Signed up to Surfshark, well recommended, thanks.
Cheers
Stated 0-60 on the pre LCI at least was 6.5s, not under 6 but damned impressive all the same. Wouldn't tune one as gearboxes are at their limit I seem to recall. A BMW service guy told me after I'd got shot of mine that BM had a flurry of warranty claims on knackered 'boxes and each one had been tinkered with and they were all refused. That was the car that made me realised I was going to kill myself driving so I got rid of it - although so much stuff is so fast these days without even trying but I remember that bringing the nutcase out in me.
Hit and miss with these, my 400tkm e61 530d runs like a clock, the gearbox wasn't working the best when i bought it but an oil change and additive sorted it.
Right after drove to Copenhagen and back with my friend, 4000km without a single worry.
I'm actually on the lookout for one of these now as a work car
I’d argue the VW 130tdi was the 1st performance diesel. In the golf I think it was quicker than the gti at the time.
I have one of these. Had it for 6 years (head up display/sunroof/19in rims). It will be the best car I shall ever own. These cars need a very good mechanic but if looked after well, not many cars will keep up. Glasgow to London in the fast lane and still fuel left. Will have to sell soon as I live in London and ulez is coming. Will be keeping the faith and get an F11 535d 😎
Do the swirl flaps and blank them off at that mileage.
The most controversial Beemer, ever? Chris Bangle did an awesome job.
I prefer the Christopher Weil's design
Nah that would be either the 2002 7-Series or the 2020 4-Series. This is the worst looking 5-Series though.
I agree with the 2002 7 series & latest 4 series being questionable to say the least but the e60/61 has aged exceptionally well. It’s a very handsome, smart looking car especially in touring form.
@@andrewmorton3177 It's aged well, but you can't say it looks better than the E39 or F10 surely!
I also think that this bmw aged great… u gotta think that this car is nearly 20 years old and from the outside it looks maybe half that age
If tyres are balanced, then most likely suspension arms on front have worn bushes.
100% had mine replaced due to same issue!
Yeah I recall having to change the front control arms or something on mine. Had hoped it was just a matter of balancing….
Can also be warped discs
for the brake judder on my e92 I spent just over a thousand...
discs, pads, calipers, fluid... nothing
front control arms (upper and lower)... made the problem less obvious
now next is rear control arms... if that doesn't fix it I'll just live with it
@@meer-cha4985 I once had a similar prob on a car. Replaced nearly everything. In the end found out it was one of the front wheels that had a very slight buckle to it.
This was one of those cars that when BMW released it I wasn't a fan. Very bold headlight design for example. Bit now I'm a little bit older and wiser it's an awesome looking car
The original Bangle Wagon
Yip spot on....am starting to turn to the darkside myself....🤔
@@andrewmcgowan8440 comparing it the the newer Beemers and those massive kidney grills they're pushing out this is like Liz Hurley
Pockets…
…are for a handkerchief 😌
I also use the cup holders for general storage - “999 things to store in a cup holder, other than a cup” would be the title of my book.
Gorgeous car and great buy - thanks for the video! Take care and God bless!
The flutter you mention is likely to be the vacuum pipes, common issue and need replacing inevitably. Swirl flaps also.
super keen to see this series!
So what are we saying Matt, that after you have titivated this car, when your thinking of selling it on you'll be asking what £4.5 grand or maybe £5 grand which considering the mileage sounds a pretty good offering price for an estate that could easily be converted and yes I am still looking for an estate worth making into a camper vehicle and what is on offer up in my neck of the woods doesn't please me.
I bought one of these - £7k low mileage "FSH" - but quite a few bits of missed service as it turns out!
Swirl flaps, glow plugs, gearbox service, few other bits.. £2k (ouch) so £9k all in..
But it's a superb drive, fast, quiet - 6 cylinder smoothness, (unless you boot it, then it sounds like a lorry engine!)
30-35 MPG probably normal - I got 40 on a congested 200 mile trip up the M5/M6 at 60.
At the moment I can see nothing I'd rather have as a family car.
had an 535D LCI. Briliant car, fast comfortable and economical. Did a chiptune to 250kw ant 700Nm, smoked some realy fast cars in that period :)
I had this shape of 5 series albeit a 520d Saloon.
The interior felt old and I hated the fact the wipers were set for left hand drive!
Having said that, it was comfortable and reliable.
Nice to see someone who says it has it should be said 👌🏻👌🏻very simple honest review and a great opinion 👍🏻 why do people buy nissan cashquai,s and Vauxhall zaferas when you could buy a 535 estate 🤔🤔 it's baffling.....
In my part of Eastern Europe where I live, incomes are a fair bit lower, so young guys can only afford much older cars arriving crash damaged from the USA or well used from Western Europe. The brand that most choose is BMW because with reasonable mechanical skills and the huge pool of second hand parts they can be kept going to a great age and still look good and drive well. A diesel car with 250,000k on the clock is seem as pretty new and even after getting 'too old' here at say 400k, many go in to further lives in places further east and south! This logic even follows through to the most popular old British car being the BMW engined Rover 75.
I run a 07 525d touring living in northern Ireland and it has more that enough power for Irish roads part are cheap and they never give much problems
I agree, people should give up on crossovers and buy one of those instead.
wagons over SUVs 100%
no they shouldn't wink wink the more for us
You are so right in why so many great cars get crushed. Their trade value falls to a couple of £K and they cease to be serviced…… end. Prestige cars, which are not supercars, fare badly, which is a shame.
Had a 530d e60 98k 2005 loads SH etc was really to drive and engine sounded good for a diesel -but oh the fault codes and Xmas tree dash board and then finally the head gasket went, never again……
I've got an '07 530i M-Sport manual. Really great, practical car, that handles well and is nice and balanced, and it still looks smart. I like the 535D but the upcoming ULEZ in London ruled it out.
I had a 1996 E36 325tds touring ,20 odd years ago. I remember then getting regularly tannoyed at petrol stations with the attendant saying 'escuse me sir but your putting diesel in your car' BMW diesel cars were rare then. It was a brilliant car just like this 5 series touring.
I drove these professionally for years. It is a fantastic car. Fast and economical
You were a professional chav?
@@asensibleyoungman2978 You a professional butthole?
I miss my 535d. Was the same - 2006 msport and loaded with options. Amazing car and the torque is amazing. I had mine under BMW warranty for the whole time I had it, so was in amazing condition. How’s your DPF? Please tell me you like the articulation of the wipers!!!!!! Best ever!
I have a 2007 LCI version which has had a few tweaks, and it's bananas! Such a powerhouse the M57 engine. Also Matt, the wheel wobble could be a few things....check out the discs for any warping, and also the front control/thrust arms. Apart from that, the vibration under load could be the prop shaft bearing and/or doughnut. Good luck with the project I'm really looking forward to seeing the progress!
Thanks for the tips
Just remembered you also mentioned a "flutter" with the revs. That could well be your torque converter 😫
I have a 2008 LCI 525D, This is my first luxury car and was wondering what is acceptable wind noise with one of these at 60-70MPH
There’s storage for your phone etc under the armrest, push button to the front of that hatch opens it
I know what you mean about saving a car at that critical stage in its life… Good on you… I hope you get some enjoyment from it
Thanks
6:48
“ I could do an EGR delete and then remap it”
Wait what channel is this 😂
I sincerely apologise. Don’t know what I was thinking of
@@HighPeakAutos haha it would be quite fun to see you tune this tho
@@sgdtv1368 slam it and remap it 😂
Remap.....NAA...get a bigger beamer with more bells and hooters
If you go down the tuning route these engines make big power without too much hassle the M57 has to be one of bmws best diesel engine they made.
I would have fixed the missing wheel nut / bolt before I even drove it, nice car when done and a good video, well done!!!!!!!
Not a particular fan of BMW, or silver cars, but it definitely works in the estate format. You have to love a car that is understated and practical, yet "goes like stink". A real tempter...
looking forward to seeing the next 1. I want one of those and you should do the remap and take it on a dyno, you might enjoy it, how could you not
Tailgate issues?
I had one of these and it used to open the tailgate whilst driving...kind of unnerving.
I git it fixed but then the split rear window release stopped working.
Other than that a great car. Serviced it every year with fully synthetic oil and filters and it never gave me any troubles. Sold it to auction, and replaced with a BMW 640 D Gran coupe. Now THAT'S a car.....
Flutter could be the early signs of the torque converter - do the revs fluctuate at speed? Other comments are right on the front lower arm bushes. Don't be tempted to polybush, I went through a set in a year. If you can wait, Autodoc stock the bushes and take a look when England are playing in Euro 2020 as they've been doing 40% discount codes. A Hunter alignment and Hunter Road Force Balance work wonders too. Filters were Mann + Hummel on the E60/E61 (Meyle on F10/F11) so get the same filters and part numbers for half the price without the BMW stamp. If you want genuine parts, Cotswold BMW will post value line parts (same filters but cheaper so they still make margin on Value Line servicing). Don't forget the rear differential oil either! I have just over a litre of the right spec left over, you're welcome to it. I know you won't forget a transmission service...
My 3.0d (e53) has only had service every 50,000 km in Scandi -25/+25 climate. Still running well after 16 years and 350,000 km. Amazing cars!
Thats very good going
Great car! I can’t believe it doesn’t have a few more niggles waiting for you…rear looms, front wind screen wiper, blocked rear drainage channels. For 3years always parked facing down hill haha otherwise battery bay would fill with water on heavy rain haha. Looks good though!!
Loving the qashqai bashing!
I'm on my 5th BMW in a row one of which was admittedly a vogue. I've currently got a moon mileage F11 and tonight you've made me want an F01 and an E61 in one sitting. Keep up the great videos. Eventually you're gonna list something I HAVE to buy.
This will be a superb car to buy once you have sorted it. Lessons learnt from the M3 if you are now even considering a repairs budget!
I have a maped 530d 2017 with 300 bhp 700 nm. Love driving it.
Not a BMW fan but a great car, we had one of these as a works run-around and I do remember the power it had. Good old V6 twin turbo.........fantastic comination.
Its an inline six mate👍
I had one of these years ago and one of the rear suspension arms snapped without warning on the motorway at 70mph sending the car into a fishtail, luckily I got it controlled and trailered home. Dpf also blocked up on it, a large sds drill and 3 holes sorted that problem out though. Worth checking / deleting swirl flaps on the intake also. Still liked the car though even after all the things that happened it.
Absolutely agree with you, it doesn't make much sense going for something tiguan related. It's no cheaper on yearly running costs, the quality isn't that great and crucially you're never 'proud' of a Qashqai or Tiguan. As an all rounder the large x35d BMW models, with some options ticked, are about the best you can get for the Reliability, Economy and Performance trifector. I am biased though driving a 435d Gran Coupe Xdrive though which has 360bhp and still does 45mpg, whilst getting to 60 in 4 seconds.
Exactly!
I loved my 2007 535d M Sport. I had the DPF and egr removed and an ecotune downpipe mod put on. It was remapped on a rolling road. H&R anti roll bars, QUAIFE LSD. Left the shocks and springs standard. I put Michelin Pilot supersports all round (got rid of the run flat tyres which were horrible). It had 386 bhp / 545 lb/ft. It was a superb supple ride and it handled and gripped amazingly. Probably my favourite car I’ve owned and I’ve owned some exotic cars. The E60 is a superb car. The model that followed it wasn’t as nice imho. I bought one and sold it. Mine absolutely flew down the road. My mate couldn’t live with me in his Jaguar F type !!! I sold mine for £13,250 in 2015 with 58,000 miles on it. I recommend these cars they really are brilliant cars. Darren Wood BMW Stockport were good back in the day. Check them out. Birds BMW in Iver are the best in the business. I would go back to one of these if I could find a low mileage one. There was a 2008 one for sale in Ireland a few months back..one owner from new and full history with low miles..it was so tempting..whoever bought that got a beauty..it had the aluminium dash trim and paino black trim. The interior was mint on it. I must emphasise the pilot supersports are a dream tyre for this car, coupled with the quaife LSD and H&R anti roll bars front and rear, you really have got the ultimate road car. I actually got 170 mph out of mine one afternoon (not public highway of course!! My mate was a witness). According to my dash, I was getting 28 mpg but that was a fair bit of spirited driving. In late 2015, I went into an E350 (65 plate) diesel bluetec estate after this and it was totally different…gutless and wallowy like a 1980s Range Rover. The steering was nowhere near as nice on the Merc. I do miss owning a Beema.
If this was a keeper and lower miles, Id put better brakes on it. The weak points on this car are definitely the front discs and pads and also the drive shafts.
I couldn’t agree more about getting satisfaction out of rescuing cars of this age that are “on the brink” - cars from the mid 90s on generally took a massive leap forward in durability and lifespan potential, but so many people still think of a car with 100,000 miles on the clock as “worn out”. That’s why I love my 2005 Peugeot 407 that I picked up for lunch money - I would happily swap it for that BMW though 😂👍
Matt when you sell this, i would be massively interested in this!
I change oil and filters on my A5 TDI every 2 years myself and I make around 2500miles a year. The problem is that potential buyers don't see any stamps in the service book :)
Thank you for great video Matt
I’ve got one and love it. Genuinely see nothing else to replace it with. They do have their issues but all cars do. I think the biggest misconception with these are because it’s a diesel, you can just run and run them. They are to a point but with 280bhp standard or close to 400hp with a remap they are practical sportswagons and need to be looked after. I’ve never seen 45mpg either. Probably not helped because I run bigger wheels with performance tyres (currently PS4’s) rather than those that are more economy focused. Anyway, you have a new subscriber and will be interested to see where you go with this.
I just got one / first luxury car I have ever owned. Can you tell what is an acceptable level of wind noise when driving at 60-70MPH
I really enjoy watching your videos ! They've helped me alot making decisions.
If I can just chip in on a comment you made whilst explaining how the twin turbo system works.. you said it was advanced and clever for 2004,. But Porsche introduced the world to the sequential twin turbo with the 959 in 1986. Skyline GTRs and Celica/supra and rx7s used them in the 90s perfecting the design with ceramic turbos and variable valve timing.
very good review mate, I also always liked that 5 series in estate
Great content as ever Matt, had a 535d touring with a remap for 4 years, apart from minor faults as you’d expect from anything mechanical it was a fantastic car and hugely capable, a real wolf in sheep’s clothing. I’ve had and driven fast cars and can say with some authority… they are quick! And thanks to your good self and a popular video by Harry Metcalf I’ve bought a 2010 L322 TDV8… very different by comparison but I completely agree… they just make you feel good! Keep up the good work mate 👍
I have a 07' 530xi as a daily work truck. The room and comfort is great even with 180k miles.
3.0 diesel in E60 s until 2005 is made of cast - iron. People mount it into Nissan Patrol. That engine is so durable. Later versions are made aluminium. 3.0 diesel form 2010 has timing chain back of the engine same like N47.
I repair my E60 myself. I upload all movies to my channel.
I love those cars. I had a 2007 E60 535d for a couple of years and traded it in for an E61 M5. I absolutely adored that car (the M5) and regret the day, every day, I sold it.
Love it when you do the project cars. They make excellent content and you always make a fantastic job of them
I like your care free way of presenting cars thrown in with the occasional sarcastic comment. Are you not worried that the transport secretary is restricting use of these vehicles in london as it does not comply with ULEZ? Please let me know your thoughts on this as I am now thinking of getting rid of the Qashqai to pick this one up!
Thank you. Please keep up the good work you do. Take care
Thanks, you too!
Loved my old 535d,did 220,000 in it in 7 years.Reliable if properly maintained,despite BMW charging ludicrous prices.
Sir can you please tell me what all parts you've changed on the engine side so far
Such a great car and great to see you keeping another one on the road.