1997 BMW 528
Only 13 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 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 13
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 13 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 1 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 0 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1997 | 13 |
| 1998 | 7 |
| 1999 | 3 |
| 2000 | 5 |
Known problem areas
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 13 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing radiator assembly and cooling system.
Service brakes
3 of 13 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Steering
2 of 13 total reports mention: steering, most commonly citing hydraulic power assist system.
Show complaint excerpts
I bought the 1997 BMW 528I off lease. It was my second BMW. The prior BMW had virtually no problems. I guess the second one had to make up for the first one. If I only had a nickle for every time I wished I hadn't traded for the second one. 1.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-08-02
Also filed under Electronic stability control (esc) and engine
Tires
1 of 13 total reports mentions: tires.
Structure
1 of 13 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing bumpers.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1997 BMW 528 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 BMW 528 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 1997 BMW 528?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 31% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 BMW 528 have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.