The 1996-2003 BMW 540i Sedan, part of the E39 generation, is a luxury sport sedan combining a powerful V8 engine with a refined chassis. Enthusiasts and reviewers praise its blend of sports car agility, muscle-car performance, and high-end comfort and quietness. It is famous for its excellent handling and classic, aggressive exterior look. Infamous issues include common cooling system failures, window regulator problems, and the potential for oil pump bolts to come loose in V8 models. Today, it remains a highly regarded used car for drivers seeking a classic European sport sedan experience with rewarding performance, provided they are prepared for the necessary maintenance of an aging luxury vehicle.
The 1996-2003 BMW 540i (E39) may incur costs for common issues like oil leaks (valve cover/PCV), cooling system failures (radiator/expansion tank), and potential timing chain guide failure on V8 engines, requiring significant maintenance.
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