Last updated: 2026-03-04

2020 BMW 5-Series Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2020 BMW 5-Series scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 7 recalls and 10 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2020 received a facelift update for the Seventh generation (G30).
Recalls
7
Complaints
10
Complaint Rate
3.9
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$968
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
7 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
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.
Seventh generation (G30)
Should You Buy the 2020 BMW 5-Series?
The 2020 BMW 5-Series scores 67/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 received a facelift update for the Seventh generation (G30).
With 10 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to exterior lighting (2). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
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
2020 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
2020 Toyota Prius
Score: 79/100
2020 Toyota Camry
Score: 75/100
2020 Chevrolet Malibu
Score: 74/100
2020 Honda Accord
Score: 73/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 7 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)
- STEERING (1)
- ENGINE (1)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)
- AIR BAGS (1)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- SUSPENSION (1)
- SERVICE BRAKES (1)
Recall Overview
7
recalls on record
The 2020 BMW 5-Series has 7 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3.9
per 10k soldSegment avg: 16.6
Safety Incidents
Crashes
3
Fires
0
Injuries
4
Deaths
0
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.
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.
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.
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.
2020 BMW 5-Series NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
BMW 5-Series Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based 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.
| Repair | Estimated 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.
When Buying a Used 2020 BMW 5-Series
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- 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
Check Any 2020 BMW 5-Series's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 5-Series in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific BMW 5-Series with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2020 BMW 5-Series Common Problems by Component
10 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaintsOwners 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaintBMW 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-relatedMy 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 complaintComponent: 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 complaintPanoramic 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 complaintI 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 complaintMy 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-relatedThe 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-relatedThe 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.
Best & Worst BMW 5-Series Years
Best BMW 5-Series Years to Buy
The best BMW 5-Series year is 2025 with a reliability score of 71/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (70/100) and 2022 (68/100).
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.
See full BMW 5-Series years-to-avoid analysis →BMW 5-Series Reliability Score Trend
BMW 5-Series reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 69/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 71/100 | Good |
BMW 5-Series Reliability Compared to Other Years
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
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
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
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
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 BMW 5-Series reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 BMW 5-Series?
How many recalls does the 2020 BMW 5-Series have?
Is the 2020 BMW 5-Series expensive to maintain?
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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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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