Used BMW 540

What to know before buying: BMW 540

From 3 video reviews and 2 press tests · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The G30 540i combines comfort with convincing performance: its eight-speed ZF shifts quickly and smoothly, while the car accelerates and corners well.[2]one source
• The G30 offers a comfortable, performance-friendly driving position, although its steering feels slightly short of feedback on track.[2]one source
• The facelifted 2020 540i sits lower and feels slightly firmer yet remains reasonably comfortable; the reviewer particularly praised its handling and ZF transmission.[1]one source
• The 2026 540i xDrive review highlights quietness, comfortable seats, useful rear space and a well-judged luxury-performance balance for daily use.[5]one source

Typical faults

• BMW 540 air-conditioning systems are reported to leak refrigerant around valves and seals, resulting in weak cooling.[3]one source
• The air-conditioning condenser and evaporator can suffer corrosion promoted by winter road-treatment chemicals.[3]one source
• One E34 540i six-speed manual owner replaced the reportedly weak clutch-and-flywheel assembly twice within two months.[4]one sourceE34

  1988–1996 · V8

• An E34 540i six-speed manual was reported to jump out of reverse; the forum also mentions replacement of the reverse-gear detent.[4]one sourceE34

  1988–1996 · V8

• On the reviewed 2020 540i at 62,000 km, the powered boot mechanism malfunctioned and squeaked.[1]one source

  62 000–62 000 km · 2020–2020

Which engine and version to take

• In the 2020 facelifted 540i review, the three-litre B58 is described as a good, reliable engine, with the stock version rated at 340 hp.[1]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Check that the air conditioning cools effectively and runs quietly; have system pressure and leaks around valves and seals tested.[3]one source
• On an E34 six-speed manual, test the clutch and flywheel under load and ensure reverse does not jump out of gear.[4]one sourceE34
• On a 2020 car, operate the powered boot through a complete opening and closing cycle, listening for squeaks and checking for binding.[1]one source
• Inspect light-coloured seats carefully: on the reviewed car at about 62,000 km, the leather was heavily soiled and stained by clothing.[1]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Артём Анохин — BMW 540i — Power, Comfort, and Emotion! Why You Should Buy It? Test Drive. · ▶ video
2. [2]ANDRSTEER — Машина, которая умеет ВСЕ. Надо Гонять BMW 540i · ▶ video
3. [3]kondicio.lv — BMW 540 - Kondicioniera Remonts, Gāzes Uzpilde un ... · press
4. [4]bmwpower.lv — BMW E34 540 - diskusiju tēma · press
5. [5]Bros FOURR Speed — What Makes the 2026 BMW 540i xDrive So Special? · ▶ video

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