Last updated: 2026-04-20
2021 BMW 5-Series Reliability Report
The 2021 BMW 5-Series scores 66/100 ("Good"). With 8 recalls and 21 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
8
Complaints
21
Complaint Rate
8.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$968
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450–$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- SERVICE BRAKES (3)
- AIR BAGS (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
- Year 5 in the Seventh generation (G30) (2017–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 7th generation 5-Series (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2017: Seventh generation (G30) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
Should You Buy the 2021 BMW 5-Series?
At 66/100, the 2021 BMW 5-Series lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.
Owners log 21 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 electrical system (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2022 BMW 5-Series, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2020 BMW 5-Series for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 21 complaints reported
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (4 complaints)
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Failure of the vacuum/oil pump assembly (3 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
- −Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2021 BMW 5-Series With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 8 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- SERVICE BRAKES (3)
Recall Overview
8
recalls on record
The 2021 BMW 5-Series has 8 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
8.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 16.9
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 BMW 5-Series Recall Details
8 recalls have been issued for the 2021 BMW 5-Series. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Consequence
Fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 24, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 24, 2026.
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.
SEAT BELTS
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i xDrive), M2 Competition Coupe, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, M3 Competition, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, CooperS, JCW), X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X2 M35i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper SE), MINI Convertible (Cooper, Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW), MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), Rolls Royce Ghost, MINI Countryman (Cooper S E All4), Rolls Royce Phantom, Rolls Royce Cullinan, and Toyota Supra vehicles. The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors (including the seat belts) and, if necessary, replace the retractors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417; 1-866-825-1525 (MINI); 1-877-877-3735 (Rolls Royce); and 1-888-270-9371 (Toyota).
Buying a used 2021 BMW 5-Series? Check its history first
Every 2021 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.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 BMW 5-Series NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
BMW 5-SeriesRepair 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.
2021 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.
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
22–25 city / 28–32 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 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 530i 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,450 |
| 540i xDrive 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 31 | 26 | $2,650 |
| M550i xDrive 4.4L 8-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 17 | 25 | 20 | $3,450 |
| M5 4.4L 8-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 15 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
| M5 Competition 4.4L 8-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 15 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 530e 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 24 | 29 | 26 | $2,650 |
| 530e xDrive 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 28 | 25 | $2,750 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 BMW 5-Series.
Inspect vacuum/oil pump assembly for leaks or failures
Test remote starter and key fob functionality
Check for gas fumes inside the cabin
Verify rear cross traffic alert system operation
Inspect airbag cover for gaps or folding
Check for passenger restraint failure codes
Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual pedal behavior
2021 BMW 5-Series Common Problems by Component
21 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 BMW 5-Series report issues primarily related to the electrical system, with common complaints involving battery management and component malfunctions. Symptoms frequently described include failure of the remote starter and key fob, as well as unexpected engagement of the emergency braking system and autostart features. One report involves a significant safety incident where a vehicle fire occurred without prior warning from the control panel or dashboard, resulting in a total loss of the car. Complaints also highlight issues with the braking system, where drivers must press the pedal to the floor to stop the vehicle. These problems are noted to occur without specific mileage patterns, but owners express concerns about the delayed availability of recall repairs.
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 BMW 5-Series frequently report issues with the braking system, particularly related to the failure of the vacuum/oil pump assembly. Symptoms commonly include a loss of braking power and failure of the brake booster pressure switch, with some reports indicating these issues occur unexpectedly. Complaints often reference these problems occurring around 45,000 miles. One report involves a crash due to unintended acceleration combined with complete brake failure, highlighting significant safety implications. Potential buyers should be aware that some vehicles may not be covered under existing recalls for this issue, despite experiencing similar symptoms.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 BMW 5-Series report issues related to safety recalls affecting vehicle market value, with one owner specifically noting reduced trade-in offers. A significant safety concern is highlighted by a reported crash where the braking system became unresponsive, leading to the vehicle rolling forward and causing damage after failing to engage park. Another owner describes discomfort due to the design of the acceleration pedal and seat, causing leg pain and numbness, which they find hazardous. These complaints do not specify mileage ranges, but they underscore potential safety risks and ergonomic concerns that prospective buyers should consider.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsOwners report two distinct airbag-related issues in the 2021 BMW 5-Series. One common problem is a persistent "passenger restraint failure" code that appears shortly after purchase, requiring a costly repair estimated at $2,700, with concerns about airbag and seatbelt functionality in an accident. Another issue involves the airbag leather cover on the steering wheel, where owners describe the cover folding in and enlarging the gap, attributed to poor material quality. These issues are reported at low mileages, around 18,000 miles, and may impact safety features such as airbag deployment, which is crucial information for potential buyers considering a used model.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2021 BMW 5-Series related to the fuel/propulsion system, specifically involving the EVAP system and gas fumes. One complaint describes a failure in the EVAP system, indicated by a check engine light, with no recall available according to the dealer. Another owner reports gas fumes entering the cabin, leading to health issues such as nausea, drowsiness, and lung granulomas, with symptoms occurring consistently while driving. These complaints highlight potential safety implications due to exposure to gasoline fumes, though no crashes or fires are mentioned. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported issues, especially regarding the potential health impact from gas fume exposure.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the rear cross traffic alert (RCTA) system in the 2021 BMW 5-Series, primarily noting the system's failure to provide timely or effective warnings. Complaints frequently mention the absence of both visual and audio alerts when vehicles or pedestrians are approaching from the rear, with some owners experiencing this issue consistently since acquiring the vehicle. One owner describes the problem as occurring approximately 150 times since March 2021, indicating a persistent issue without resolution despite multiple dealership visits. Safety implications are highlighted by the system's inability to alert drivers to potential collisions, though no crashes are reported. This information is relevant for potential buyers considering the reliability of the vehicle's back over prevention features.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 BMW 530I. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle hesitated. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with motor mount failure. There was an abnormal pulling sound detected. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact spoke with two experts and was informed that the failure should not have occurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 BMW 540I. The contact stated that on multiple occasions, the front and rear passenger’s and driver’s side seat belts failed to detach after being connected. The contact stated that he forced the rear passenger’s side seat belt to detach with a screwdriver. No warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the dealer stated that candy was lodged in the buckle. The contact stated that the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintIntermittent vibration at highway speeds. Brought to the BMW dealership and they stated the right front wheel was out of round. I never hit a pothole or anything that would cause damage. The dealer "repaired" the wheel, but the problem still exists. Brought the vehicle back and am now told that BMW has started offering non-run flat tires on new cars. I feel that the run flat tires coupled with the low-profile wheels could be the issue. Also, feel that the wheels are poorly made and are prone to being warped.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 BMW 530i. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the sunroof exploded and glass entered into the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the failure was due to the weather. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
When Do 2021 BMW 5-Series Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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
Based on reliability index scoreThe 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.
| 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 |
| 2026 | 71/100 | Good |
BMW 5-Series Reliability Compared to Other Years
2021 BMW 5-Series Common Questions
10 questions from 2021 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 2021 BMW 5-Series reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 BMW 5-Series?
How many recalls does the 2021 BMW 5-Series have?
Is the 2021 BMW 5-Series expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 BMW 5-Series without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the BMW 5-Series.
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