2000 BMW 540I Electrical system Problems

“Like 80% of owners of Bmw 540I, 740i, 740il, x5 owners from years 1999-2003 suffer from factory defect variable valve timing units or as Bmw calls it vanos. The parts on the inside cause terrible diesel type noises. I've talked to many certified mechanics who have told me if affects how the engine runs and performs.”

“I have a 2000 Bmw 540I (e39). My car was in a pristine condition, and all of sudden, the engine failsafe prog message came up, and the car shutdown. I took it to a dealership, and I was told the thermostat was burned badly, causing the engine wiring harness and dme burned as well. I believe this is a big safety concern for those that own this vehicle. I was quoted $3500 to fix this issue, and currently it's being repaired at Bmw seattle.”

“I was moving my car in order to park it somewhere else. The car started then complete failure. The car cut off, no power brakes, no power steering. I had to press the brakes very hard to get stoppage. The thermostat shorted out and burned out the main computer. The car would not start. The main computer was replaced, the wiring harness was burned out and several other electronic parts were replaced. The aluminum thermostat housing was melted and was replaced! Total of over $5,000 was required to fix. …”

“Engine fire: electronic thermostat wires overheated and caused wires and electrical connectors to burn. Smoke entered the cabin while driving and vehicle performance has been degraded.”

“The contact owns a 2000 Bmw 540I. When the brakes were depressed, the traction did not hold or control the vehicle. The instrument panel gauge also failed to function properly when the ABS failed. The Bmw manufacturer was called and informed the contact that his warranty had expired and he would be responsible for the repair cost. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 91,000.”