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...
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.
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.
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.
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 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 👌🔥
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 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 👍
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 😏😌👌🏼
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'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
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
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.
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.
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!
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 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.
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!
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.
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
Great video and honest review Matt. New they looked impressive but styling took some getting used to, overall build quality was questionable from memory of mine from that time. Roomy, practical wagon though. 👏👍
Good review love the e61, Just gave my X5 a gearbox service.. night and day difference! And got the 3.0d remapped and egr turned off, drives so good now love it gonna nurture it for as long as I can.
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!
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 !
Pockets! 🙃 Thanks for keeping these legends alive. What you said about Qashqais and other family haulers struck a chord. Trying to convince my sister to get an 08, 3 litre diesel X5 for a fraction of the cost of a family econobox she's considering. These engines are fantastic. I have an E92 335d, I'm getting 370bhp and 850nm torque following DPF Delete and remap. Not bad for a sootchucker that's about 14 years old.
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 😁
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!
Thank you for your excellent video. I guess the decision to buy a Qashqai instead of trying one of these BMs depends on whether you are a car enthusiast or not. The tlc factor is crucial to owning an old gem of a car like the BMW.
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
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 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.
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 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.
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've never really had problems with older BMW engines but it was the electrics on my 2006 520d estate that were a total nightmare. Finally gave up and sold it after the headlights decided to pack in during a long night time journey. This was following fixes for belectric window problems, seat problems, broken wires in the tailgate hinges causing radio and central locking issues etc. Total nightmare but yes the engine was solid 😁
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’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.
Would be cool to see a project series where you get stuck in and do some DIY stuff. I did an EGR delete on my Saab and it made a world of difference, and whilst it was a bit of a pig to do, I learned a lot in the process. Whilst we all love the review format, I think it would be cool to see you doing some tinkering and learning as you go just for some variety. This would be an absolute beast with a remap too. You can probably achieve an additional 70bhp and 90lb-ft torque with a simple tune and EGR delete.
It’s a good idea. Struggle for time though that’s the problem. The other problem is I’m not that handy with a spanner and I lose my patience quite quickly
@@HighPeakAutos I figured the time element would be the biggest issue. Admittedly I'm not the best either but once you realise how much money you save on small jobs it becomes worth it! Looking forward to seeing the e60 after some love regardless.
pockets lol I have a 635 and needed to replace all 6 injectors. Like you say , my hope is that the car is now good for another 5 years or more. Great videos btw
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 😂
@@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.
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……
5:04 I did a bit of a budget bodge job for the black paint on my Škoda’s wiper hubs using Hammerbrite. It looks alright and it protects them from oxidising again, not sure how well it would work in a large area like the mirrors though.
Great car - I’ve picked one up that is in a similar state with all this issues you mentioned - corrected all apart from the cosmetic stuff. Would really appreciate it if you can link me in with whoever is looking after yours for paint and the flaking door mirror bits. A few other points (from what I know, stand to be corrected I’m sure!) A remap can cause gearbox issues medium to long term, the gearbox from factory on pre-lci 535d is almost at its limit in terms of torque capacity when the engine is putting out standard factory torque - any increase on this leaves the gearbox vulnerable to failure. Lci e60 535d gearbox can handle engine remap - it’s a ZF box in lci models and GM box in pre lci. Gearbox fluid change might cause issues at this mileage - unless the fluid has been change every 60 - 80k miles then new fluid can put increased load on a leggy gearbox as the new liquid performs at a higher level in terms of its compressibility etc and puts load on the box - also there are those who say changing the gearbox fluid means the box can run dry for a small amount of time one initial start up post fluid change which of course can cause damage - I think general rule is, if there isn’t any issues with gearbox and car is over say 120k miles, leave it alone. Swirl flaps in the inlet manifold are prone to breaking and falling into combustion chamber and destroying the engine, I think removal and replace my of these with blanking plates would be great for peace of mind for new owner. DPFs on BMW’s are generally decent so would avoid the delete/remap and try a forced regen to resolve the rpm flutter if it is being caused by clogged EGR/DPF issues - EGR is a easy removal to check if it needs cleaning out - right at the front of the engine and easy to access. Worst case scenario re: rpm flutter could be gearbox issues on the torque converter. EGR thermostat is almost guaranteed not to be working these alway seem to fail at some point - easy to sort and cheap part - again front of engine and easy to access. Maybe change the crankcase breather valve as again these can often fail and lead to a number of issues - they don’t get “blocked” as most are the vortex version and not the original “loo roll” versions but the diaphragm fails on the vortex versions - get a febi brand vortex breather valve and get it swapped out for what’s there already. Check the crank pulley isn’t wobbling about, these often go bad due to the torque going through them. Would be good to run a code check and see if the glow plug controller has failed (you’ll know when you get errors messages for a all 6 glow plugs) - another item that often goes wrong, bit of a fiddle to change but not too bad. Visual check on the vacuum lines might be good when the inlet manifold is off to do the swirl flaps. Would good to change any perished vacuum lines to keep the boost strong. Love the channel and reviews - no nonsense style is great.
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!!
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.
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 got butterflies when I saw this video pop up in my news feed! 😍 I have the E61 530i with 163k miles and spent a fortune on it making it near perfect with some tasteful upgrades. If it weren't for ULEZ I'd love to get an E61 535d and stage 3 it and just enjoy embarassing modern sports cars lol while in luxury. Would you consider getting spacers so the wheels sit flush with the arches? That's my next mod followed by a muffler delete so I can hear that flat 6 3 litre petrol sing :-)
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.
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.
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...
My next car will be a nice 535d lci if you have one when I start shopping for one I'll deffo buy from you my favourite car reviewer / car channel 👍 hope u had a nice Christmas 🎄
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 😂
That ending 🤣 Wallet will be opened and contents forcibly removed
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.
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
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
Just watched the update video! Your optimism in this one is truly spectacular....
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.
For me this model was one of the best looking 5 series ever,another good review Matt 👏
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.
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 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 👌🔥
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
Love it when you do the project cars. They make excellent content and you always make a fantastic job of them
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 👍
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
@@piovo5222 om606 is the king
@@TrulyUniqueOne Both are amazing engines, no need to squabble about which one is better as they're both magnificent
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'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
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
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.
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
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!
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 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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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
Love seeing this one getting the love it desserves! Good luck, subscribed
Thanks for subscribing
Gonna be a bargain for some one when it’s been sorted. Great video as always.
I had an E60 530d some years back, amazing car never missed a beat !!
Such a great car and great to see you keeping another one on the road.
Great video and honest review Matt. New they looked impressive but styling took some getting used to, overall build quality was questionable from memory of mine from that time. Roomy, practical wagon though. 👏👍
As a last gasp diesel deal I’d be tempted by this or the XJ. Both can be found at low prices and some nice sub 80k versions around.
I'm actually on the lookout for one of these now as a work car
Good review love the e61, Just gave my X5 a gearbox service.. night and day difference! And got the 3.0d remapped and egr turned off, drives so good now love it gonna nurture it for as long as I can.
I'm an advocate for that. It gives me peace of mind knowing it has been done
I had the lci version from 2008. I still have fond memories of owning it!
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
Good reviews. I enjoy the way the you review and the cars you review. Nice interesting motors. Good to see loads of views on this. Well deserved.
I have always thought an estate car was much better than SUV. It’s good to hear you have a similar view.
It dose not look too bad and you only paid 2 bags, nice👌🏾, I quite estate's, love to see more. Thanks for another great video, awesome content👍🏾
I love to see some videos of the work done on your projects, this and the civic specifically!
The defender pick up project is nearly finished. I'll get a video done with that soon
super keen to see this series!
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 !
Pockets! 🙃 Thanks for keeping these legends alive. What you said about Qashqais and other family haulers struck a chord. Trying to convince my sister to get an 08, 3 litre diesel X5 for a fraction of the cost of a family econobox she's considering. These engines are fantastic. I have an E92 335d, I'm getting 370bhp and 850nm torque following DPF Delete and remap. Not bad for a sootchucker that's about 14 years old.
Totally agree
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 😁
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!
Thank you for your excellent video. I guess the decision to buy a Qashqai instead of trying one of these BMs depends on whether you are a car enthusiast or not. The tlc factor is crucial to owning an old gem of a car like the BMW.
Looking forward to this project bud keep it going
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.
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 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.
Thank you. Please keep up the good work you do. Take care
Thanks, you too!
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 😎
very good review mate, I also always liked that 5 series in estate
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.
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've never really had problems with older BMW engines but it was the electrics on my 2006 520d estate that were a total nightmare. Finally gave up and sold it after the headlights decided to pack in during a long night time journey. This was following fixes for belectric window problems, seat problems, broken wires in the tailgate hinges causing radio and central locking issues etc. Total nightmare but yes the engine was solid 😁
Great review and spot on; the 3l diesel is a peach coupled to the ZF8 auto. The sponsor piece is also very good advice in today’s world.
It's a 6hp by ZF not 8hp
Matt when you sell this, i would be massively interested in this!
I had 530dM 56 reg touring for 12 yrs. Mrs wrote it off. Brilliant car.
Great project car, looking forward to updates 😀
Love your project cars - each one, I think 'yeah, good call, I'd take that on if I had the time and space!'
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!
It's extremely weird how I have such similar taste in cars, this channel suits me very well! Thank you for great content, keep it up!
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
Would be cool to see a project series where you get stuck in and do some DIY stuff. I did an EGR delete on my Saab and it made a world of difference, and whilst it was a bit of a pig to do, I learned a lot in the process. Whilst we all love the review format, I think it would be cool to see you doing some tinkering and learning as you go just for some variety. This would be an absolute beast with a remap too. You can probably achieve an additional 70bhp and 90lb-ft torque with a simple tune and EGR delete.
It’s a good idea. Struggle for time though that’s the problem. The other problem is I’m not that handy with a spanner and I lose my patience quite quickly
@@HighPeakAutos I figured the time element would be the biggest issue. Admittedly I'm not the best either but once you realise how much money you save on small jobs it becomes worth it! Looking forward to seeing the e60 after some love regardless.
Great review and certainly a robust working car for hauling antiques, dogs or bodies around!
I would have fixed the missing wheel nut / bolt before I even drove it, nice car when done and a good video, well done!!!!!!!
pockets lol I have a 635 and needed to replace all 6 injectors. Like you say , my hope is that the car is now good for another 5 years or more. Great videos btw
nice one matt agree that we're too quick to dispense of perfectly good cars...good sustainable watch !
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 😂
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?…😃
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.
Awesome videos, keep up the good work! Good quality content, and honest reviews. One of a few channels worth subscribing to.
Thank you
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……
Signed up to Surfshark, well recommended, thanks.
Cheers
5:04 I did a bit of a budget bodge job for the black paint on my Škoda’s wiper hubs using Hammerbrite. It looks alright and it protects them from oxidising again, not sure how well it would work in a large area like the mirrors though.
I was thinking of that sort of thing for this
Great car - I’ve picked one up that is in a similar state with all this issues you mentioned - corrected all apart from the cosmetic stuff.
Would really appreciate it if you can link me in with whoever is looking after yours for paint and the flaking door mirror bits.
A few other points (from what I know, stand to be corrected I’m sure!)
A remap can cause gearbox issues medium to long term, the gearbox from factory on pre-lci 535d is almost at its limit in terms of torque capacity when the engine is putting out standard factory torque - any increase on this leaves the gearbox vulnerable to failure.
Lci e60 535d gearbox can handle engine remap - it’s a ZF box in lci models and GM box in pre lci.
Gearbox fluid change might cause issues at this mileage - unless the fluid has been change every 60 - 80k miles then new fluid can put increased load on a leggy gearbox as the new liquid performs at a higher level in terms of its compressibility etc and puts load on the box - also there are those who say changing the gearbox fluid means the box can run dry for a small amount of time one initial start up post fluid change which of course can cause damage - I think general rule is, if there isn’t any issues with gearbox and car is over say 120k miles, leave it alone.
Swirl flaps in the inlet manifold are prone to breaking and falling into combustion chamber and destroying the engine, I think removal and replace my of these with blanking plates would be great for peace of mind for new owner.
DPFs on BMW’s are generally decent so would avoid the delete/remap and try a forced regen to resolve the rpm flutter if it is being caused by clogged EGR/DPF issues - EGR is a easy removal to check if it needs cleaning out - right at the front of the engine and easy to access. Worst case scenario re: rpm flutter could be gearbox issues on the torque converter.
EGR thermostat is almost guaranteed not to be working these alway seem to fail at some point - easy to sort and cheap part - again front of engine and easy to access.
Maybe change the crankcase breather valve as again these can often fail and lead to a number of issues - they don’t get “blocked” as most are the vortex version and not the original “loo roll” versions but the diaphragm fails on the vortex versions - get a febi brand vortex breather valve and get it swapped out for what’s there already.
Check the crank pulley isn’t wobbling about, these often go bad due to the torque going through them.
Would be good to run a code check and see if the glow plug controller has failed (you’ll know when you get errors messages for a all 6 glow plugs) - another item that often goes wrong, bit of a fiddle to change but not too bad.
Visual check on the vacuum lines might be good when the inlet manifold is off to do the swirl flaps. Would good to change any perished vacuum lines to keep the boost strong.
Love the channel and reviews - no nonsense style is great.
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!!
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.
Another good watch as always..keep them coming 👌
Thanks
Looking forward to the next video content cheers buddy
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.
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👍
The flutter you mention is likely to be the vacuum pipes, common issue and need replacing inevitably. Swirl flaps also.
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 got butterflies when I saw this video pop up in my news feed! 😍 I have the E61 530i with 163k miles and spent a fortune on it making it near perfect with some tasteful upgrades. If it weren't for ULEZ I'd love to get an E61 535d and stage 3 it and just enjoy embarassing modern sports cars lol while in luxury. Would you consider getting spacers so the wheels sit flush with the arches? That's my next mod followed by a muffler delete so I can hear that flat 6 3 litre petrol sing :-)
There’s storage for your phone etc under the armrest, push button to the front of that hatch opens it
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.
Another great video, well done mate and a great car👍
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
I’m becoming addicted to your channel. Great reviews 👍
Thank you. Welcome aboard!
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.
Lovely motor. Another one on my wish list. Great video as always
Thanks 👍
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...
My next car will be a nice 535d lci if you have one when I start shopping for one I'll deffo buy from you my favourite car reviewer / car channel 👍 hope u had a nice Christmas 🎄