Last updated: 2026-04-20

2020 BMW 5-Series
RELIABILITY SCORE: 67/100 (GOOD)

2020 BMW 5-Series Reliability Report

The 2020 BMW 5-Series scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 7 recalls and 10 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

7

Complaints

10

Complaint Rate

3.9per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$968

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,450–$4,050

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity72/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact59/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity77/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)
  • STEERING (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2020 received a facelift update for the Seventh generation (G30).

  • Changes: Minor cosmetic updates; Improved hybrid capabilities.
  • Year 4 in this generation (2017–2023).
  • 7th generation 5-Series (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2017: Seventh generation (G30) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: This Model Year (Refresh)

2020 received a facelift update for the Seventh generation (G30).

Should You Buy the 2020 BMW 5-Series?

At 67/100, the 2020 BMW 5-Series lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 received a facelift update for the Seventh generation (G30).

Owners log 10 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to exterior lighting (2). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2021 BMW 5-Series, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2019 BMW 5-Series for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
  • +Well-established generation
  • +Only 10 complaints reported

Cons

  • Above-average recall count
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Owners of the 2020 BMW 5-Series report issues related to the vehicle's exterior... (2 complaints)
  • Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued

Compare 2020 BMW 5-Series With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 7 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

7

recalls on record

Park Outside

The 2020 BMW 5-Series has 7 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

3.9

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.3

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

3

Crashes

0

Fires

4

Injuries

0

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 BMW 5-Series Recall Details

7 recalls have been issued for the 2020 BMW 5-Series. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V5980002020-09-30

BACK OVER PREVENTION

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles. A small portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, program the rearview camera with updated software. The recall began November 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

25V6360002025-09-23Park Outside

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.

Consequence

A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 6, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 14, 2025.

21V5980002021-08-02

ENGINE

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.

Consequence

Loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2020 BMW 5-Series? Check its history first

Every 2020 BMW 5-Series has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2020 BMW 5-Series NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (-)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

BMW 5-SeriesRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$968

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2020 BMW 5-Series Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement$161 – $354
Hood Release Cable Replacement$257 – $331
Window Regulator Replacement$644 – $773
Brake Light Switch Replacement$121 – $157
Body Control Module Replacement$724 – $817
Fuel Level Sending Unit Replacement$1,780 – $1,845
Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement$237 – $279
Powertrain Control Module Replacement$544 – $594
Heater Core Replacement$1,741 – $2,421
Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement$800 – $870

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

17–28 MPG

Running cost: $3,400–$5,000/yr

Fuel + repair

15–25 city / 21–33 hwy MPG

Plug-in Hybrid

25–27 MPG

Running cost: $3,500–$3,700/yr

Fuel + repair

23–25 city / 29–31 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
530i 2.0L 4-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)253328$2,450
530i xDrive 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)243127$2,550
540i 3.0L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223025$2,750
540i xDrive 3.0L 6-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)222925$2,750
M550i xDrive 4.4L 8-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)182520$3,450
M5 4.4L 8-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)152117$4,050
M5 Competition 4.4L 8-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)152117$4,050
Plug-in Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
530e 2.0L 4-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)253127$2,550
530e xDrive 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)232925$2,750

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 BMW 5-Series.

  • Inspect engine oil pump for updated metal version

  • Check front door speakers for water damage if equipped with Bowers & Wilkins stereo

  • Verify functionality of instrument cluster light sensor and headlight indicators

  • Test gas tank door for proper opening and closing

  • Ensure all recalls have been addressed, especially for steering and braking systems

2020 BMW 5-Series Common Problems by Component

10 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

2
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)STEERING (1)ENGINE (1)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)AIR BAGS (1)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)SUSPENSION (1)Other (1)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 BMW 5-Series report issues related to the vehicle's exterior lighting system. One common complaint is the absence of an indicator light in the instrument cluster to confirm whether the low beam headlights are active, despite the vehicle manual indicating otherwise. This lack of indication may lead to drivers inadvertently leaving headlights off, relying solely on daytime running lights, which do not activate tail lights, potentially reducing visibility for other drivers. Another reported issue involves the light sensor in the digital instrument cluster, which dims the display brightness during daylight to a level that some owners find unreadable. These issues are noted by owners without specific mileage references, suggesting they may occur at various points in the vehicle's usage.

2 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint
2024-04-19

BMW G30 chassis vehicles equipped with the optional Bowers & Wilkins stereo have multiple owners reporting on Bimmerpost owners forum that water incursion damages the front door midrange speakers on both sides of the vehicle due to poor water drainage design. Water is causing the speakers to short out and stop functioning. This is also happening to owners of the BMW F90 chassis with the Bowers & Wilkins optioned stereo speakers. Stock stereo and Harmon Kardon systems seem not to be impacted by this issue.

STEERING

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-10-05Crash reported

My car was totaled, I lost steering assistance, and it switched off while I was driving. The car was the subject of an open recall. I need this looked at because it might be a crash caused by a fault.

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint
2025-12-19

Component: Engine Oil Pump (Plastic Internal Variant) Safety Risk: Sudden Loss of Motive Power / Engine Seizure Defect Description: The oil pump in the BMW B58 engine utilizes a plastic tensioning/adjusting ring that is prone to brittle fracture. At only 38,000 miles, my vehicle suffered a catastrophic internal pump failure, resulting in an immediate "Low Oil Pressure" warning and forced engine shutdown. Safety Hazard: Stalling at Speed: This defect causes an immediate loss of propulsion. If this occurs during highway merging or high-speed maneuvers, the driver faces an abrupt loss of power steering and braking assist, significantly increasing the risk of a high-speed rear-end collision. Imminent Seizure: Total oil pressure loss can lead to crankshaft seizure, potentially locking the drive wheels and causing a loss of vehicle control. Technical Evidence: BMW has released an updated part (P/N 11419895359) that replaces the plastic internals with a metal housing, acknowledging the original design is insufficient for the thermal loads of the engine. Post-repair inspection of my vehicle showed significant carbonized "soot" in the filter, indicating that the pump's underperformance caused localized overheating of the lubricant prior to the final failure. Request: NHTSA should open an investigation into the B58 oil pump (2019–2021 models) to determine the failure rate of the plastic-ring units. A safety recall is necessary to replace these units with the updated all-metal version before a high-speed seizure results in a fatality.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint
2025-11-181 injury

Panoramic sunroof exploded while driving on route 30, York PA around 740am EST, shattered into pieces, made home late, urgent care closed near me will try again around 5am. Irritating eyes and headache most the day and having constant discomfort and worrying.

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaint
2025-07-25

I had a diagnostic done and it was discovered that the passenger seat airbag is defective and needs to be replaced

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint
2023-12-04

My gas tank door would not open. Luckily I was not on a long trip. The vehicles key fob locks and unlocks door along with car doors. The dealer used a special tool to open the door and replaced inside parts. My concern is there is no fail safe to open the gas door. The design is flawed as there should be some sort of manual release in the trunk.

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaintSafety-related
2021-10-21Crash reported1 injury

The vehicle had a repair made by dealership. The repair started to malfunction as it would lock the vehicles driving mechanism making the vehicle non opporstional while driving. Issue was reported to the same dealer and explained. The dealer stated that I would receive a call to schedule a mechanical appointment to investigate however the time spent waiting for further instructions from dealer. Days later the system lock while driving I the high way i95 and flew of an exit ramp high up and for deep of field. Loosing not just my conscious but came to fine out I got injured on my back and no one took the responsibility on something that could have been avoid as the vehicle was brought to dealer for inspection prior to the accident but their negligence let me drive off with the vehicle.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaintSafety-related
2023-03-29Crash reported2 injuries

The contact owns a 2020 BMW 530I. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the contact depressed on the brake pedal desperately, but the vehicle would not stop, causing the contact to rear-end the vehicle in front. There were front end damages to the contact's vehicle and rear end damages to the other vehicle. No warning light illuminated. The contact sustained head injuries that required medical attention. The driver in the other vehicle suffered injuries to the shoulders and the neck that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer who stated no failure was found but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was repaired by the insurance company. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was inspected by a tech and stated no failure was found. The failure mileage was 700.

When Do 2020 BMW 5-Series Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

38,000 milesEngine oil pump failure

Best & Worst BMW 5-Series Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best BMW 5-Series Years to Buy

The best BMW 5-Series year is 2026 with a reliability score of 71/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (71/100) and 2023 (70/100).

BMW 5-Series Years to Avoid

The worst BMW 5-Series year is 2018 with a score of 59/100, primarily due to air bags (62) issues.

BMW 5-Series Reliability Score Trend

BMW 5-Series reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 70/100 compared to 64/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

BMW 5-Series reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201859/100Mixed
201962/100Good
202067/100Good
202166/100Good
202268/100Good
202370/100Good
202571/100Good
202671/100Good

BMW 5-Series Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202671/1000Good10
202571/100+1Good50
202370/100+2Good27
202268/100+2Good313
202166/100-1Good821
2020(selected)67/100+5Good710
201962/100+3Good1167
201859/100Mixed17212

2020 BMW 5-Series Common Questions

10 questions from 2020 BMW 5-Series owners.

Ignition trouble

If i replace the ignition switch does that include the cylinder tumbler in it,it was thought possibly the cylinder tumbler might need replacing since key will only turn just a little A few days

VisitorJan 22, 2026

When turning key car wont start or click on solenoid.

1996 BMW Z3. Is there a relay that controls the starter? all fuses are fine. I replaced the starter and car still wont start or click! Car won't start More than a week

VisitorJan 15, 2026

Crank no start

I started my car the other morning and it was about 29° outside. When I started it there was a loud pop under the hood. The car kept running so I drove it about 40 miles. Later that afternoon I went to leave and it would crank but no start I went and bought a battery and it started so I went back home. It's been 3 weeks and it still won't start. Now it's a slow rough crank with no start More than a week

VisitorJan 4, 2026

2006 BMW X3 3.0i Coolant leak

Coolant leak-even when car is not running. Have replaced the coolant reservoir, the mounting plate for the reservoir and radiator, the heater control valve and the oil cooler have been replaced. It’s still just dousing the coolant out. Not a drop leak more consistent stream. I’m at a loss for what to do. Leaks regardless of engine on or off A few days

VisitorNov 11, 2025

Oil leaking

When driving car smokes on and off I was told it could be valve cover gasket it gas been sitting for 2 months and now is hard to start More than a month

VisitorOct 22, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 BMW 5-Series reliable?
The 2020 BMW 5-Series has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 67/100. It is reasonably reliable with 7 recalls and 10 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 BMW 5-Series?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 BMW 5-Series include: EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints), STEERING (1 complaints), ENGINE (1 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 BMW 5-Series have?
The 2020 BMW 5-Series has 7 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 BMW 5-Series expensive to maintain?
The 2020 BMW 5-Series should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 67/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 BMW 5-Series without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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