BMW , 5 Series , E12 , 525 (1973-1981) Common Issues

Most Common Issues (10-20% of models affected)

1. Rear Main Seal Leak
2. Head Gasket Failure
3. Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
4. Brake Master Cylinder Failure
5. ABS Light On due to Sensor Failure
6. Front Coil Spring Failure
7. Trunk Lid Catch Mechanism Breakage
8. Door Handle and Lock Failure

Moderately Common Issues (5-10% of models affected)

1. Oil Leaks from Engine Block
2. Water Pump Failure
3. Intermittent Transmission Slipping
4. Rear Brake Rotor Warping
5. Center Console Trim Panel Delamination
6. Power Steering Hose Leak
7. Wiper Motor Failure
8. Dash Trim Panel Cracking

Less Common Issues (1-5% of models affected)

1. Engine Oil Pan Gasket Leak
2. Transmission Mount Failure
3. Rear Axle Shaft Wear
4. Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
5. Heater Core Leaks
6. Gas Cap Strangulation Switch Failure
7. Door Mirror Mount Breakage
8. Trunk Space Sill Panel Cracking

Rare Issues (less than 1% of models affected)

1. Engine Crankshaft or Camshaft Failure
2. Transmission Rebuild Required due to Overheating
3. Rear Axle Bearing Wear
4. Electronic Ignition Module Failure
5. Air Bag Deployment System Malfunction
6. Headlight Beam Adjustment Mechanism Sticking
7. Fog Light Switch Failure
8. Trunk Space Sill Panel Bonding Adhesive Cracking