Three problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 1999 BMW 528. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Repeated failure of abs-odometer-speedometer electronic control module failed two years running.
Asc control unit failed. This resulted in failure of anti-lock brakes and traction control and speedometer on my 1999 BMW 528i. BMW has a service bulletin out on this issue for 5 series cars 9/98 to 9/00 (mine was built 10/98). Bulletin info: vs-23/weintuch baugruppe/group:32 32 01 00 (646) . The repair instructions code is ra 24 52 515/ 34 52 516. After unit failed, I was involved in an emergency situation in which I had to brake heavily and all four wheels locked up. . Read more...
Speedometer stops working. Problem is well documented on vehicle repair forums. Defective module was upgraded by BMW engineering but no recall issued, left to owners to experience failure before getting module replaced. Risk of excessive speed. Risk of overspeed condition while entering posted speed corners. BMW only repair due to programming, cost of $2000, risk of less affluent owners driving with speedometer inoperative.
| Electrical System problems | |
| Battery Cable problems | |
| Back Up Alarm problems |