IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 BMW 5 Series (G30)

The G30 arrived in the UK in 2017 as the seventh-generation 5 Series, lighter than the F10 it replaced and the first 5 Series with a plug-in hybrid option, the 530e. UK engines ran from the 520d four-cylinder diesel to the 530d and 540i six-cylinders, with the M550i xDrive above them.

What changed for 2017

  • •First 5 Series with a 530e plug-in hybrid as a volume fleet option
  • •Laserlight headlamp option and semi-autonomous driving assistance on early cars
  • •Wider use of aluminium in the suspension and body to cut weight

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !530e cars with poor charge discipline showing drivetrain warnings and fuel-system faults
  • !DPF and EGR advisories on 520d examples doing urban miles
  • !Parking sensor, camera and lighting damage on long-wheelbase company cars
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Active Grille Shutter Failure

ModerateCooling System

The aero flaps behind the grilles can stick or lose motor drive, triggering engine-management warnings and occasionally affecting warm-up behaviour.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£600
Warning Signs:

Engine-management light with shutter faults, Clicking from the grille area, Overcooling or slow warm-up on some trips

What to Inspect:
  • Scan for active-grille faults
  • Inspect for stone or salt damage in the shutter assembly
  • Check operation after a test drive rather than only from cold
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Coolant Expansion Tank Leak

ModerateCooling System

Hairline cracks around the expansion tank or attached fittings can cause repeated low-coolant warnings on B48 and B58 petrol cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£350
Warning Signs:

Intermittent low-coolant warnings, Pink residue around the tank seam, Sweet smell after shutdown

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the tank and vent hose closely under strong light
  • Check whether coolant level is stable across multiple heat cycles
  • Look for recent top-up bottles in the boot
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Display Key Screen Failure

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Cars fitted with the touchscreen display key can suffer battery degradation, poor charging, or a dead screen, which is annoying rather than critical but expensive for a key.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£400
Warning Signs:

Blank or dim key screen, Key losing charge quickly, Intermittent comfort-access recognition

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm both keys are present and working
  • Check whether the display key charges properly in its cradle
  • Do not overpay for the feature if it is already failing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 BMW 5 Series (G30)

  • For a 530e, confirm the battery has been regularly charged, not simply used as a hybrid
  • Check the front subframe mounting areas and suspension arms on cars with 70,000-plus miles
2018–2019
Check a 2017 BMW 5 Series (G30) by Registration