Model year guide

1999 BMW 5 Series

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 1999 BMW 5 Series is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 26 on record.

1999 BMW 5 Series — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

1999 BMW 5 Series at a glance

Safety recalls1
Owner complaints2
Typical price$1,382

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

1999 BMW 5 Series recalls 1

Steering:linkages:rod:relay:connecting NHTSA Campaign #19E058000 · 28/08/2019

ZF Group North America Operations (ZF) is recalling certain Lemförder Steering Center Rods sold as aftermarket parts for 1996-2004 BMW 5-Series (E39) vehicles. The steering center rods may have an insufficient ball pin pull force that may allow the rods to detach from the steering knuckle.

Fix: ZF has notified the parts distributors, instructing them to inform the end customer. ZF will reimburse them for the affected parts. The recall began August 28, 2019.

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

1999 BMW 5 Series common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Air
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Hydraulic
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

What's a 1999 BMW 5 Series worth?

Low
$600
Typical price
$1,382
High
$2,500

From 25 comparable 1999 BMW 5 Series listings.

1999 BMW 5 Series trims & engines on record

Trims
528i · 540i
Engines
2.8L 6-cyl 190 hp · 4.4L 8-cyl 282 hp

1999 BMW 5 Series vehicles on record

Other BMW 5 Series model years

1999 BMW 5 Series — frequently asked questions

Does the 1999 BMW 5 Series have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 1999 BMW 5 Series. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

What are the most common problems with the 1999 BMW 5 Series?

Based on 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are service brakes, air, hydraulic.

How much is a 1999 BMW 5 Series worth?

Comparable 1999 BMW 5 Series listings run roughly $600–$2,500, typically around $1,382 (from 25 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.