1999 BMW 5 Series: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1999 BMW 5 Series: 0 recalls, 2 owner complaints and up to 21 mpg combined.

There isn't much public data on the 1999 BMW 5 Series yet, so we start with what helps most: the repair manual options.
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1999 BMW 5 Series.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
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From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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Recalls
0 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Steering Equipment recall #19E058000 · 2019 · 614 vehicles
What's wrong: The steering center rods May have an insufficient ball pin pull force that May allow the rods to detach from the steering knuckle.
Why it matters: If the steering rod detaches from the steerable wheel knuckle, it can cause sudden loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Zf has notified the parts distributors, instructing them to inform the end customer. Zf will reimburse them for the affected parts. The recall began August 28, 2019.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Brakes (hydraulic) (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Brakes (air) (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 1999 BMW 5 Series has 2 owner complaints, ranking #14 of 18 5 Series model years for complaints (well below the 24 average). Neighboring years: 2000 (2 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.8 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 | 26 | 21 | Regular |
| 2.8 L 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 24 | 19 | Regular |
| 2.8 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 24 | 19 | Regular |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 22 | 18 | Regular |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 19 | 16 | Regular |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 21 | 16 | Regular |
FAQ
Does the 1999 BMW 5 Series have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 1999 BMW 5 Series, but 1 equipment or tire recalls may apply. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 1999 BMW 5 Series problems?
Owners have filed 2 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are brakes (hydraulic) (1), brakes (air) (1).
What gas mileage does the 1999 BMW 5 Series get?
EPA ratings run up to 21 mpg combined (2.8 L, Manual 5-spd), across 6 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1999 BMW 5 Series repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.