Junk it or find the problem
It stalls. It was fixed for a reported starter relay problem, then again for clutch fan? (overheating was said as the reason for stalling). Problem is starting again... it ran great for 6 months. Is it fuses, fuel? Bad fan?
I feel it is a sturdy car. Safe for my light weight kid with no airbags, but I want it to be reliable.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th May, 2008
Bullet proof, fast, great handling!
Replaced exhaust including cat.
All front suspension parts at 125000.
All rear suspension parts at 180000.
REplaced water pump once.
Replaced transfer fuel pump twice.
Some electrical gremlins like dash lights blinking or going out.
Car still has 160 psi compression on all cylinders!
No major engine or transmission work.
Just tune ups!
Awesome car! Lots of power and great handling. Being rear wheel drive, this car needs a LSD, which the 535is has. I would have had even more fun with this car with a 5 speed. I love the white exterior with the red interior.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 22nd August, 2005
Regarding the comment on LSD (limited-slip differential), the BMW 533i and 535i had an option for LSD. So some 533's and 535's had it, some didn't. My 533i, does not have this. Too bad since it can help on slick surfaces.
Note: US spec. E28 535i has a 3.4 liter engine, 533i has a 3.2 liter, and the 528e has a 2.7 liter.
Everything I expected and more
Some wear on the drivers seat & minor rust for the year of this car.
I have wanted a BMW for a long time and finally found a great deal. It's a 1987 528e with only 52800 km. The only thing I have had to do is replace the rotors & pads. A little body work on the lower undersides & I am looking at probably replacing the exhaust system. But I am not complaining I only paid $1500.00 Canadian for this beauty! Can anyone tell me if the steering is supposed to be stiff on this year of BMW? The steering seems like it is standard steering to me, but I have never driven a BMW before! Thanks in advance for your help.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 5th September, 2004
Yes, steering on the 528e is supposed to be stiff. I believe it has "power assisted steering" versus straight "power steering." The intention is a greater feel for the road at speed, but more power assist when driving slow and parking. Great car!
Regarding steering: It is somehwhat normal for the steering to be stiff. But when is it stiff? During parking (low rpm's), or driving (mid-rpm's)? My 533i, is sometimes very stiff at low rpm's, during parking, but a little throttle always helps. Otherwise the steering stiffness is consistent. Also, the majority of BMW's from the 80's or earlier have a "numb on-center" steering response - meaning it feels dull turning the wheel, left/right slightly just off-center; when turned more it gets very positive, and grabs the road. This is a common trait the E21, E23, E24, and E28 were known for. This is smart, safe German engineering. Remember, these cars were built for higher than average speeds, and you don't want the steering, brakes, or throttle to over-react.
20th May 2008, 07:35
183,000 miles on a 21 year old car. What do you expect?