1994 BMW 525I
Only 7 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 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 4
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1994
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1994: 7 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 4 |
| 1990 | 11 |
| 1991 | 13 |
| 1992 | 18 |
| 1993 | 5 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 24 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 1 |
| 2000 | 0 |
| 2001 | 22 |
| 2002 | 28 |
| 2003 | 32 |
| 2004 | 84 |
| 2005 | 35 |
| 2006 | 77 |
| 2007 | 72 |
| 2008 | 1 |
| 2009 | 1 |
| 2010 | 0 |
| 2011 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and radiator assembly.
Visibility
1 of 7 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing heater core.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 7 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control, most commonly citing linkages.
Show complaint excerpts
After having recall repair work done last week vehicle is still experiencing same problem, the throttle will remain open, while driving vehicle. Recall # 97V131000.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-06-11
Steering
1 of 7 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing anti-theft device.
Show complaint excerpts
Computer command control module failed, locking consumer in vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-04-29
Also filed under Electrical system
Power train
1 of 7 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
My transmission went out in my 1994 BMW 525I. This has been reportedly happening to many of us. The failure was in the reverse gear first, then the first two forward gears.
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-12-03
Safety timeline
4 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1995-02-10Latches/locks/linkages94V219000 The double-lock feature can engage with occupants and the door/ignition key inside the vehicle.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the general control module with one containing the revised software to permit window opening with the double-lock engaged and key in the ignition.
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R
1996-09-30Exterior lighting96V111000 The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "Brake lights off" Position or in the "Brake lights on" Position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.
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R
1997-10-30Vehicle speed control97V131000 The cruise control and throttle cables are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break due to…
Remedy: Dealers will install a spring steel clip on the outer tube of each cable in the area of the adjusting screw and plastic bushing. The clip is designed to prevent the outer tube from dislodging from…
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R
1999-03-31Engine and engine cooling98V178000 Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. A malfunction or failure of a coolant system component, such as a thermostat, water pump, or fan belt, can result in significantly increased coolant…
Remedy: Dealers will install a new design radiator cap to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow in the event of overheating.
Buy-smart checklist
1994 BMW 525I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility: 1 report on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 94V219000 · Latches/locks/linkages
- Recall 96V111000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 97V131000 · Vehicle speed control
- Recall 98V178000 · Engine and engine cooling
FAQ
- Is the 1994 BMW 525I 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 1994 BMW 525I?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 43% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1994 BMW 525I have?
- 4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.