Faults:

Servicing and consumables. A few sensor faults but nothing expensive or serious.

Power steering fluid leak.

Driver's electric seat a bit hesitant to move.

You must keep these cars serviced on time, do not touch unloved cars without complete history.

General Comments:

SE Touring is an estate car 5 series that is very large and comfortable. Dark blue with alloy wheels, this car looks the part.

530i petrol, 3.0 engine is fast but not that economical - you only get around 30 mpg, good for what it is, but not great mpg by today's standards. Still, a fast quiet and smooth engine that is more reliable than the diesels which are more common.

The car drives amazingly, for an estate car that is heavy it handles like a dream. Auto-box gives both relaxed cruising or sporty performance. The interior is leather and very nice to sit in. All the electronics expected of the era.

Only thing I do not like is the stupid twiddly menu center console, and the high running costs. The car's looks also split opinion when new, but this generation of 5 series has grown on me, all modern cars look ugly nowadays and this car does not look out of place at all.

Find a nice one and enjoy it - this generation can be bought for a few grand now, but be aware running costs can get high, do not try to run this BMW on the cheap!