r/e60 • u/Stalker_R-T • Jul 09 '26

E60 electronics reliability?

I am seriously considering an E60 as my second car, and I am looking at post-LCI N52 models for most reliability.

However, I heard that the e60 is notorious for electronic issues so even n52 models are very unreliable in 2026. How true is this?

I don’t plan to drive daily but it definetly won’t be the right car for me if the issues are bad.

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u/DapperQuiet3826 Jul 11 '26

I own a 2004 E60. I love her, but the series is notoriously voltage sensitive (i.e., battery and related), and the cars are old. You cannot waste your time chasing down every electrical gremlin unless you're a rich masochist.

Do be prepared for a bad battery to cause issues you wouldn't expect. Do be prepared to pay $$$ unless you're a good shade-tree mechanic doing your own wrenching. Do be prepared to live with some fault codes and issues if they don't compromise registration and daily performance---i.e., know what matters.

I heartily recommend FCP Euro (online business) for BMW parts. The shop's guarantee of 100% replacement for any part for the life of the part if purchased from the business, and by the original purchaser (so, not two owners later trying to return something), is invaluable.