1991 BMW 525
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 15
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 3
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1991
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1991: 15 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1989 | 3 |
| 1990 | 7 |
| 1991 | 15 |
| 1992 | 14 |
| 1993 | 3 |
| 1994 | 8 |
| 1995 | 15 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 2001 | 3 |
| 2002 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 15 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine and radiator assembly.
Vehicle speed control
3 of 15 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
The throttle sticks and caused the vehicle to accelerate in reverse, causing an accident. Please describe.
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-05-29
Throttle linkages and control failed, causing vehicle to lose control, resulting in accident/injuries prior to recall (91V-029).
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-02-22
Sudden acceleration when vehicle shifted into drive gear, causing loss of control/accident/injuries.
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-11-09
Air bags
3 of 15 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Seats
2 of 15 total reports mention: seats, most commonly citing power adjust.
Electrical system
2 of 15 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing interior/under dash and wiring.
Show complaint excerpts
The brake light indicator flashed on the dashboard, soon after consumer noticed an electrical wire smell and smoke started coming from the air vents, and within seconds vehicle was on fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-02-19
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1991-07-08Vehicle speed control91V029000 Insufficient axial clearance exists for throttle valve, shaft, and housing due to the different thermal expansion rates of the separate parts when vehicle reaches normal operating temperatures and…
Remedy: Inspect and repair the vehicle by replacing throttle housing if insufficient axial clearance is found.
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R
1994-06-25Fuel system, gasoline94V066000 Feed fuel hoses can harden and "Set" Over time, allowing a seepage of fuel at the connection between the hose and the engine fitting. The clamp used to hold the hose to the fitting is unable to…
Remedy: A redesigned feed fuel hose and hose clamp will be installed to alleviate the fuel seepage.
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I
1994-07-26Preliminary evaluationClosed 1994-11-25 Steering lck-up/impediment
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I
1994-11-25Preliminary evaluationClosed 1995-03-31 Air bag wiring failure
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I
1995-03-31Engineering analysisClosed 1996-07-15 Air bag wiring failure
Buy-smart checklist
1991 BMW 525 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 91V029000 · Vehicle speed control
- Recall 94V066000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 1991 BMW 525 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1991 BMW 525?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1991 BMW 525 have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.