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 PER YEAR
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.
4 of 13 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing radiator assembly and cooling system.
3 of 13 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH2 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, 20150802
Also filed under ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) and ENGINE
1 of 13 total reports mentions: tires.
1 of 13 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing bumpers.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 BMW 528 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (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 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.