BMW 528i Owner’s Guide
The BMW 5 Series is a legend in it’s own right. For more than 40 years the engineers at BMW have continuously improved the lineup to create sedans that epitomize the balance between luxury, comfort and performance. To many car enthusiasts the BMW 528i is where the German automaker really steps up the refinement.
It’s the entry-level model of the 5 Series, but there’s nothing standard about the BMW 528i sedan. Whether you’re driving up Congress in the heart of Austin, TX, cruising down the coast or taking on the elevation changes in the Hill Country you can rest assured your BMW 528i is going to provide a smooth ride. After years of providing BMW 528i service in Austin we’ve learned to truly appreciate what this sedan can deliver.
The BMW 528i Model Essentials
The 5 Series is getting a remodel in 2017, and many experts expect that the updates will win over sport sedan enthusiasts. It may not be as nimble as the 550i, but there’s still plenty to appreciate about the BMW 528i.
The 5 Series 528i comes in two models:
- 528i Sedan
- 528i xDrive Sedan
Performance and Pricing
Some drivers have noted that the BMW 528i and 535i are a little sluggish and don’t handle as tightly as expected. But it’s important to keep in mind that the 528i is a sizeable sedan. However, the acceleration is good and making the adjustment to Sport mode provides a sportier driving experience.
Performance specs for the newest BMW 528i include:
- 2.0 liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine
- Up to 240 horsepower
- 0-to-60 in as little as 6.1 seconds
- Up to 260 lb-ft torque
- 8 speed sport automatic transmission
- Dynamic Stability Control
- Electronic Throttle Control
- Adaptive M suspension
- Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go radars
- Active Blind Spot Protection
- Driving Dynamic Controls with ECO PRO, SPORT, SPORT+, or COMFORT
- Integral Active Steering
- Auto start-stop
- Dynamic Traction Control
- Dynamic Damper Control
- Dynamic Brake Control
- Cornering Brake Control
- Servotronic power steering assist
- Multi-link rear suspension
The 528i’s starting price tag of just over $50,000 may be a tad steep to some, but it’s a deal compared to other models in the 5 Series. Upgrade to the xDrive and the price goes up to $52,500.
Interior
When a car has 20-way multi-contour seats you can expect that the interior is going to impress. The feature-rich, luxuriously comfortable cabin is one of the top selling points of the BMW 528i sedan. There are gadgets and gizmos a plenty that work as advertised. Many drivers have noted how simple the navigation system is and how the layout makes it easy to work the voice system, radio interface and other controls.
You may notice that the new models now have dark flooring and paneling even in vehicles with beige seating. This was done by design to improve longevity and keep the interior looking nice. Another practical feature is the fold-down rear seats.
Tech Components
The 5 Series gets a lot of high scores in the tech department. Even drivers who wish the car would grip the road harder have nothing but good things to say about the tech components. Many note that adding the Heads Up Display system is worth the extra cost. But that’s just one of many features that come standard or can be added on to the BMW 528i..
The top tech features of the BMW 528i sedan include:
- All around ambiance lighting
- Power folding heated mirrors
- iDrive infotainment system
- Navigation system with 10.2” HD monitor
- Real time traffic monitoring
- Enhanced Bluetooth
- iDrive touchpad controller
- Folding, heated side mirrors
- 14-way adjustable front seats with 4-way lumbar support
- Xenon Adaptive headlights
- HiFi 12-speaker sound system
- Enhanced USB
- 2-way power moon roof
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Automatic climate control
- Anti-theft alarm and audio system
Common BMW 528i Maintenance in Austin
Owning a BMW 528i in Austin means you’ll get to test your ultimate driving machine in various terrains and weather conditions. That means you have to take maintenance seriously since your BMW is being put to the test by the elements.
The most common BMW 528i maintenance needs our Austin mechanics handle include:
- Software upgrades for the DME
- Oil and oil filter changes
- Tire rotation
- Brake pad replacement
Of course, these are in addition to regular inspections. Keep an eye on these things and take a look at your owner’s manual to see the recommended maintenance schedule.
BMW 528i Repair in Austin
After more than four decades out on the road, 5 Series drivers are sure to find quirks and bugs that need to be fixed. Based on what we’ve seen come into our shop the most common BMW 528i repairs in Austin are:
- Worn tension struts that cause looseness in the front suspension
- Coolant leaks in the water pump
- Coolant leaks in the radiator
- Engine overheating caused by thermostat failure
- Faulty hydraulic valve lifters
- Valve cover gasket leaks
- Failure in the blower final stage fan resistor
- Fluid leaks in the power steering hose
In the 528i’s long run there have only been 11 recalls that owners need to watch out for. Our team at German Auto Center is fully equipped to handle any repair, maintenance or upgrade. As a Bosch-authorized service center drivers are given assurance that only the highest quality components are being used while keeping your warranties intact. Give us a call if you own a BMW 528i in Austin that needs a professional touch to maximize performance.
