What is buyer check #1 when buying a 1989 BMW 5 Series (E39)?

Inspect the jacking points, sills, and boot lid for severe rust, which is the main killer of UK E39s.

What is buyer check #2 when buying a 1989 BMW 5 Series (E39)?

Check the entire cooling system (radiator, water pump, expansion tank); the plastics become brittle and will suddenly shatter.

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1989 BMW 5 Series (E39)

Browse our directory of 1989 BMW 5 Series (E39) vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.

Registration Directory

F177 ODV F271 SUU F505 SFE F51 CEW F72 LAA F825 NNJ F997 KRM G143 GPY G270 FJK G287 TNC G296 ECK G858 ELB G871 KOB KAT 215M

Showing registrations 1–14 of 14 for the 1989 BMW 5 Series (E39). Select any plate for an instant vehicle history check.

Buying Tips for the 1989 BMW 5 Series (E39)

Inspect the jacking points, sills, and boot lid for severe rust, which is the main killer of UK E39s.
Check the entire cooling system (radiator, water pump, expansion tank); the plastics become brittle and will suddenly shatter.
Listen for knocking from the complex multi-link front suspension, indicating worn thrust arm bushes (the 'E39 shimmy' under braking).
Ensure the instrument cluster pixels are fully readable, as they almost universally fade or drop out entirely.
Check the M52/M54 straight-six engines for high oil consumption and leaks around the rocker cover gasket.

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