2001 BMW 5 Series: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2001 BMW 5 Series: 0 recalls, 3 owner complaints and up to 21 mpg combined.
There isn't much public data on the 2001 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 2001 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.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
Recalls
0 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 2 equipment/tire recalls that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
2 aftermarket equipment / tire recalls replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Engine & cooling Equipment recall #12E029000 · 2012 · 585 vehicles
What's wrong: This recall involves aftermarket parts sold by valeo. Valeo is recalling certain engine cooling fans, part numbers 696121, 696273, and 696275, used as service replacement parts for model year 2008-2011 BMW 1-series, 2006-2011 BMW 3-series, 2000-2009 BMW 5-series, 2004-2005 BMW 6-series, and 2006-2007 BMW 7-series vehicles. A metal-oxide semiconductor May overheat due to insufficient screwing of the semiconductor on…
Why it matters: This condition could cause the fan motor to become inoperative, or cause the motor circuit board in the assembly to overheat, potentially leading to a fire in the engine compartment.
The fix: Valeo will notify owners and replace the fans free of charge. The safety recall began on August 22, 2012. This recall is being conducted by valeo, not by BMW. For further information,
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
- Body & structure (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Electrical (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Exterior lights (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Visibility (wipers, glass) (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2001 BMW 5 Series has 3 owner complaints, ranking #13 of 18 5 Series model years for complaints (well below the 24 average). Neighboring years: 2000 (2 complaints, 0 recalls), 2002 (7 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 | 27 | 21 | Premium |
| 3.0 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 | 27 | 21 | Premium |
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 25 | 20 | Premium |
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 20 | Premium |
| 3.0 L 6-cyl | Automatic (S5) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 24 | 19 | Premium |
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 19 | Premium |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 22 | 18 | Premium |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 21 | 16 | Premium |
| 4.4 L 8-cyl | Automatic (S5) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 19 | 16 | Premium |
FAQ
Does the 2001 BMW 5 Series have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 2001 BMW 5 Series, but 2 equipment or tire recalls may apply. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 2001 BMW 5 Series problems?
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are body & structure (1), electrical (1), exterior lights (1).
What gas mileage does the 2001 BMW 5 Series get?
EPA ratings run up to 21 mpg combined (2.5 L, Manual 5-spd), across 9 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2001 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.