BMW 5 Series (F10)
Car generation · 2010–2017 · Sedan & Touring · Executive class
BMW · 5 Series · F10 · 2010–2017 · Sedan / Touring
- N20
- N55
- N47
- N57
Preliminary — not reviewed0 sources
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Reliability snapshot
The F10 is a capable executive car but has a well-documented set of costly problems — particularly on diesel variants with the N47 engine. With good maintenance history it can be a reliable car, but budget for timing-chain service and potential oil leaks. Petrol variants (especially 520i / 528i with N20) are generally more reliable long-term.
Top problems on the F10
Most expensive and most frequently reported issues — ordered by repair cost
- Caution — monitor closelyOil-filter-housing gasket leaks
- Avoid long tripsEarly N20/N26 timing-chain wear
Engines and trims
F10 production variants
N57 3.0 diesel inline-6
3.0L I6 Diesel
Inline-six common-rail diesel.
N63 4.4 twin-turbo V8
4.4L V8 Twin-Turbo
Hot-vee twin-turbo V8; early versions have documented issues.
4.4L V8 (N63)
N20 2.0 turbo inline-4
2.0L I4 Turbo
Turbo four; early production has a chain concern.
3.0L diesel (N57)
3.0L petrol (N55)
2.0L diesel (N47)
N55 3.0 turbo inline-6
3.0L I6 Turbo
Single-turbo direct-injection six.
3.0L petrol (N53)
2.0L petrol (N20)
Common DTC codes
Diagnostic codes most frequently seen on this generation
Maintenance overview
Key service intervals (varies by engine and driving conditions)
| Service item | Interval | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Early timing-chain check Inspect on early-production N20/N47 cars | ||
| Engine oil and filter Per BMW's Condition Based Service schedule | 12,000–15,000 km | |
| Cooling-system refresh Preventive — or sooner by vehicle age | 120,000–150,000 km |