Table 1 shows three common engine and engine cooling related problems of the 2001 BMW 540. The number one most common problem is related to the radiator (three problems). The second most common problem is related to the engine cooling system (one problem).
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Radiator problems | |
| Engine Cooling System problems | |
| Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve) problems |
Radiator cracked, disabling car on highway. Also caused xenon lamp failure. Replaced by dealer under warranty. This is a well known defect on BMW e-39 series cars. Read details...
Water pump failure. Coolant leaking from shaft. Radiator failure, drivers side top radiator nipple inlet cracked. Read details...
M62 v-8 engines used in the e-39 540 and e-38 740 are notorious for faulty timing chain guides. At around 125,000 the plastic can disintegrate causing the chain to skip a tooth. Once a tooth is skipped the valves are crushed and the engine is destroyed. Read details...