Used BMW 5 Series for Sale by Owner on Craigslist
Looking for a used BMW 5 Series? CraigsCars searches every Craigslist city at once, so you can compare BMW 5 Series listings from private sellers nationwide instead of browsing city by city. Below you will find live listings, the known weak points of the 5 Series, and a checklist for your test drive.
Used BMW 5 Series listings on Craigslist
Live results from Craigslist listings nationwide. Click a listing to open the original ad.
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What to check before buying a used BMW 5 Series
- Check the transmission for smooth, prompt shifts both cold and warm.
- Look for uneven panel gaps or paint mismatch that point to accident repairs.
- Check tire wear and alignment — pulling to one side can mean suspension damage.
- Ask for oil change and timing belt/chain service records.
- Run a VIN history report and compare the mileage with the odometer and the condition of the pedals, steering wheel and seats.
- Make sure the title is in the seller's name, is not salvage/rebuilt (unless priced accordingly), and has no lien.
BMW reliability: what owners should know
Common issues include oil leaks (valve cover and oil filter housing gaskets), cooling system failures (water pump, expansion tank), and N54/N63 turbo engine problems. Avoid cars with no service records. Budget $1,000–$2,000 per year for maintenance on older models.
How to get a good price on a used 5 Series
Compare several BMW 5 Series listings with similar year and mileage before contacting sellers — searching all Craigslist cities at once gives you a realistic picture of the market. Private sellers usually leave 5–10% room to negotiate. Point to concrete issues (tires, brakes, upcoming services) found during inspection to justify your offer. See our full negotiation guide.
Other used BMW models
Find a used 5 Series in your city
- Los Angeles, CA
- New York City, NY
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Dallas, TX
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- Philadelphia, PA
- Austin, TX
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- Seattle, WA
- Denver, CO
- Sacramento, CA
- Portland, OR
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a used BMW 5 Series for sale by owner?
This page searches Craigslist listings from every US city for the BMW 5 Series. Results include private sellers and dealers; look for "by owner" listings to avoid dealer fees.
What should I look out for on a used BMW 5 Series?
Executive sedan with great comfort. Avoid V8 models without detailed records.
Is it safe to buy a BMW 5 Series on Craigslist?
Yes, if you meet in a public place, verify the title and the seller's ID, never wire money or use gift cards, and get a pre-purchase inspection. Read our guide on avoiding Craigslist car scams for details.