MotorDeets

2002 BMW 525IA: Recalls, Problems & MPG

Here are the deets on the 2002 BMW 525IA: 1 recall, 3 owner complaints and up to 21 mpg combined.

1vehicle recalls
3owner complaints
1mention a crash
21best combined mpg
2002 BMW 525IA
Photo: KillerPM from Cambridge, Canada · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Recalls

1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.

Tires Vehicle recall #01V352000 · 2001 · 1,318 vehicles

What's wrong: Operation of the vehicle over a long period of time could lead to a reduction of inflation pressure.

Why it matters: Continued driving with low inflation pressure in the tire could ultimately result in damage to the tire, affect vehicle handling and control, and could in some cases result in a vehicle crash.

The fix: Dealers will inspect all five tires for a possible cut in the sidewall, and if a cut is found, the tire will be replaced. Owner notification began December 10, 2001.

Most-reported problems

Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 2 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.

Airbags3
Engine1

What owners describe

The 2002 BMW 525IA has 3 owner complaints, ranking #3 of 8 525IA model years for complaints (1.7× the average 525IA year). Neighboring years: 2001 (1 complaints, 3 recalls).

Engines & fuel economy (EPA)

EngineTransmissionDriveCityHwyComb.Fuel
2.5 L 6-cylManual 5-spdRear-Wheel Drive182721Premium
2.5 L 6-cylAutomatic (S5)Rear-Wheel Drive172420Premium
2.5 L 6-cylManual 5-spdRear-Wheel Drive172419Premium

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 2002 BMW 525IA.

eManualOnline Download (PDF), keep forever

Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.

Most $25–$78, one-time
Check 2002 BMW 525IA manual
Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yr
Check 2002 BMW 525IA manual
ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yr
Check 2002 BMW 525IA manual
Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
Check 2002 BMW 525IA manual

Heads 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

FAQ

Does the 2002 BMW 525IA have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2002 BMW 525IA. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What are the most common 2002 BMW 525IA problems?

Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (3), engine (1).

What gas mileage does the 2002 BMW 525IA get?

EPA ratings run up to 21 mpg combined (2.5 L, Manual 5-spd), across 3 engine and transmission combos.

Where can I get a 2002 BMW 525IA 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.

Other 525IA years

19901991199219931994199520012002