Faults:

Coolant sensor when I bought the car.

Rear right central lock at 125000km.

Coolant radiator has a little leak, had to be changed to a new one "behr" at $157.

2 front shock absorbers when purchased.

AC air filter.

General Comments:

The car is amazing. I enjoy driving the BMW, especially the e34.

Very solid build, everything is good quality from inside-outside, except the door panels, so I had to put some glue on it.

Mine is a very clean car. Still looks like new.

I always do services on time (oil change, filters...) and everything has been going very well for almost 3 years, and is still going well.

I like the dashboard lights, like a plane.

The BMW has a presence and unique personality of its own. Mine is black and looks very nice.

I intend to keep it for 5 more years, and expect it to do well. Then I'll buy the next generation e39.

Faults:

Torque converter was replaced for a leak - $900

Fuel Pump died - $125 DIY

Gearbox failed - Didn't bother replacing.

General Comments:

Absolutely brilliant handling and ride comfort

Engine seems to be pretty reliable

Transmission failure annoyed me quite a bit, but I would buy another BMW. I think I just got a lemon.

Faults:

Replaced all six ignition modules.

Fitted platinum spark plugs.

Mass air flow meter replaced three times, initially bought cheaply second hand because of BMW's exhorbitant price, however the most recent acquisition is a reconditioned unit with a two year warranty versus BMW's 1 year factory warranty.

Water pump, still functioning but had a slight weep, so I replaced it.

Sunroof had some small rust spots where the rubber seal joins, I also replaced that with a second hand unit, exactly the same colour and perfect.

Replaced electric window switch central module.

Ignition lock failed, had to replace key barrel.

New windscreen, lots of chips caused by poor Australian roads.

Front brake rotors have been replaced twice in 4 years, hopefully the Brembo brand I recently purchased will live up to their good name, also replaced the front pads at the same time.

Front shocks have also been replaced, one unit was leaking after a very rapid 13 hour drive from NSW to QLD; Bilstein gas shocks currently fitted are proving to be very nice to work with.

General Comments:

I have owned over 30 cars since obtaining my licence in the mid 70's, from Fiat's, Rover's, Mercedes, Peugeot's, Toyota's and even a Cadillac; every time I think about moving on from the BMW (I have also had countless test drives in late model vehicles, I'm sure the salesmen are on to me!!), I just marvel at the smoothness and solidity of the 5 series, the more I re-invest in this car the less likely I am to sell it, components just seem to last such a long time. Everything I have replaced had been performing for over 16 years, so I really have nothing to complain about; I only wish that I had been able to experience this car from new, but the $70,000 price tag was well out of reach. I still smile when that exhaust crackles on acceleration.

Faults:

Head gasket.

Rear differential.

Auto gearbox.

Engine management computer - twice!

Radiator - twice!

General Comments:

Looks good - even now.

Very quick & handles well for a big car.

Comfortable.

BMW GB servicing is poor. Fine if you drive a nice brand new M3, but anything older than 5 years and they don't give a stuff.

Parts are staggeringly expensive... you pay for that badge!

As you can see.. they break OFTEN!!

In terms of reliability and servicing, this is without a shadow of doubt the worst car I've ever owned. For that reason I will NEVER, EVER buy a BMW again. My old basic Ford Escort was a better car!