1999 BMW 540IA
Only 10 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 10 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 |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 0 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1993 | 0 |
| 1994 | 0 |
| 1995 | 0 |
| 1997 | 12 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 10 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 7 |
| 2002 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 10 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 10 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
1 of 10 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
1 of 10 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 10 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 10 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
SAFETY TIMELINE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5HP24 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. PREMATURE WEAR OF THE RING GEAR CAN OCCUR, LEADING TO THE LOSS OF 1ST, 2ND, 3RD, AND REVERSE GEARS.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
Campaign 99V005000 — check if this car was fixed
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE THICKNESS OF THE MAIN POSITIVE ELECTRICAL CABLE (GENERATOR TO STARTER) INSULATION IS LESS THAN SPECIFIED, MAKING IT SUSCEPTIBLE TO BEING ABRADED OR CUT B
Remedy: DEALERS WILL APPLY A THICKNESS OF INSULATING TAPE TO THE CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE CLIP, AND INSTALL A REVISED CLIP.
Campaign 99V004000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1999 BMW 540IA — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 99V005000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 99V004000 (electrical system) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1999 BMW 540IA 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 1999 BMW 540IA?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:cooling system:radiator assembly, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1999 BMW 540IA have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.