IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 BMW 5 Series (G30)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2018 BMW 5 Series (G30). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

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 TeamUpdated

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 TeamUpdated

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 TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2018 BMW 5 Series (G30)

  • Test the air conditioning to ensure it blows ice cold; failing condensers are a common issue and require significant dismantling to replace.
  • On the 520d, check the EGR cooler recall status, as leaking coolers can cause catastrophic engine fires.
  • Inspect the active grille shutters at the front; they can seize due to dirt, causing the engine to run too hot or throw check engine lights.
  • Verify the 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox shifts seamlessly; it should not hesitate or clunk when coming to a stop.
  • Check the massive digital instrument cluster for any dead pixels or software lag when switching driving modes.
  • Listen for any knocking from the rear suspension on Touring (estate) models, which could indicate failing air suspension airbags.
Check a 2018 BMW 5 Series (G30) by Registration