IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 BMW 5 Series (G30)

The facelift brought revised lights, newer infotainment, and wider mild-hybrid use on UK cars, but tyre wear and cooling niggles remain the main ownership notes.

What changed for 2020

  • •LCI update with refreshed styling and infotainment.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Tyres on inner shoulders, track-rod wear, and sensor faults after minor bumper damage.
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 2020 BMW 5 Series (G30)

  • LCI cars are desirable, though condition and options still matter more than model year alone.
2018–20192021
Check a 2020 BMW 5 Series (G30) by Registration