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About the BMW 5 Series F10
AI-generatedThe BMW F10 5 Series, produced from 2010 to 2017, represents the sixth generation of BMW's executive saloon. Available in both saloon and Touring (estate) body styles, the F10 offered a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, from the economical 520d to the fire-breathing M5 with its twin-turbocharged V8. The F10 introduced a lighter chassis using aluminium and high-strength steel, along with BMW's EfficientDynamics technologies including auto start-stop, brake energy regeneration, and various active aerodynamics features. The interior featured BMW's iDrive system with a sizeable display screen, while the exterior design evolved BMW's signature kidney grille and Hofmeister kink styling cues. The F10 was offered with rear-wheel drive as standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available on selected models. A facelift in 2013 brought revised LED headlights, updated bumpers, and improved efficiency across the range. Known for its blend of comfort, performance, and technology, the F10 remains a popular choice in the used executive car market, though potential buyers should be aware of some age-related issues.
Known Issues
Known Issues
F10 (2010-2017)
2010-2017
- Timing chain wear on N47 and N47N diesel engines, particularly pre-2013 models - can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed
- EGR valve and cooler failures on diesel models causing reduced power and limp mode
- Turbocharger failures on high-mileage diesel variants, especially 520d and 525d
- Fuel injector failures on diesel engines requiring expensive replacement
- Water pump failures causing overheating issues across petrol and diesel engines
- Thermostat housing leaks, particularly on N20 and N55 petrol engines
- Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing gaskets
- Rear subframe mounting point cracks on early models, addressed by BMW service action
- Air suspension compressor failures on models equipped with adaptive suspension
- iDrive system freezing or unresponsive touchscreen requiring software updates
- Parking brake actuator motor failures causing warning lights and MOT failures
- Battery drainage issues due to faulty comfort access modules
- Swirl flap failures in intake manifolds on diesel engines
- DPF regeneration problems and premature filter blockage on diesel models
- Gearbox mechatronic unit failures on 8-speed automatic transmission
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,800-£2,800
Insurance Group
28-50
Average Service
£450-£800
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
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£14,000 - £22,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent range of powerful and efficient engines
- Refined and comfortable ride quality, especially with adaptive suspension
- Spacious and well-built interior with premium materials
- Strong rear-wheel drive handling dynamics
- Advanced technology including iDrive, head-up display, and driver assistance features
- Good boot space for the class (520 litres in saloon)
- Strong residual values compared to some rivals
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2014 - Post-facelift model with updated styling and improved efficiency, plus timing chain issues largely resolved on diesel engines by this point
- 2016 - Later production models benefit from all updates and refinements, with fewer early-production issues and most reliability problems addressed
- 2017 - Final year of production represents the most refined and sorted versions with all technical updates implemented
Worst Years
- 2010 - First year of production with earliest examples of N47 diesel engine timing chain issues and various teething problems
- 2011 - Continued timing chain problems on diesel models and rear subframe mounting issues affecting some early cars
Buying Checklist
Engine8 items
- Check for timing chain rattle on diesel engines, especially when cold
- Look for oil leaks from valve cover, oil filter housing, and sump
- Verify water pump and thermostat housing for leaks or weeping
- Check turbocharger for excessive smoke or whistling noises
- Ensure engine runs smoothly without misfires or rough idling
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The F10 M5 was the first M5 to use a turbocharged engine, producing 552bhp from its 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8
BMW built over 2.2 million F10 5 Series cars globally, making it one of the most successful executive saloons of its era
The F10 was up to 10% lighter than its E60 predecessor thanks to extensive use of aluminium in the body structure
Active Hybrid 5 models combined a 3.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, though very few were sold in the UK
Alternatives to Consider
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212
7/10Direct rival with similar space and luxury, generally better reliability on diesel models but less engaging to drive
Audi A6 C7
6/10Quattro all-wheel drive as standard on many models, refined interior, but more conservative styling and dynamics
Jaguar XF X250
Stylish alternative with engaging rear-wheel drive handling, but lower residuals and smaller dealer network
Lexus GS
Superior reliability and build quality with hybrid options, though less sporty and smaller boot space
Volkswagen Passat B7/B8
More affordable running costs and similar space, but lacks premium badge appeal and driving dynamics
Owner Tips
- 1Insist on full BMW service history and check timing chain has been replaced on pre-2013 diesel models
- 2Listen carefully for any diesel engine rattling when cold - this indicates timing chain wear
- 3Check for oil leaks around valve covers, oil filter housing, and under the engine
- 4Test all electronic systems including iDrive, parking sensors, and cameras thoroughly
- 5Verify the parking brake operates correctly without warning lights
- 6On high-mileage diesels, ensure DPF regeneration cycles complete properly during test drive
- 7Check for any Service Action recalls that may not have been completed
- 8Budget £1,000-£2,000 annually for maintenance and repairs on older examples
- 9
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