2002 BMW 525IA: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2002 BMW 525IA: 1 recall, 3 owner complaints and up to 21 mpg combined.

Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Tires Vehicle recall #01V352000 · 2001 · 1,318 vehicles
What's wrong: Operation of the vehicle over a long period of time could lead to a reduction of inflation pressure.
Why it matters: Continued driving with low inflation pressure in the tire could ultimately result in damage to the tire, affect vehicle handling and control, and could in some cases result in a vehicle crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect all five tires for a possible cut in the sidewall, and if a cut is found, the tire will be replaced. Owner notification began December 10, 2001.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 2 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (3): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Engine (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2002 BMW 525IA has 3 owner complaints, ranking #3 of 8 525IA model years for complaints (1.7× the average 525IA year). Neighboring years: 2001 (1 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 | 27 | 21 | Premium |
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Automatic (S5) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 20 | Premium |
| 2.5 L 6-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 19 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2002 BMW 525IA.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2002 BMW 525IA have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2002 BMW 525IA. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2002 BMW 525IA problems?
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (3), engine (1).
What gas mileage does the 2002 BMW 525IA get?
EPA ratings run up to 21 mpg combined (2.5 L, Manual 5-spd), across 3 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2002 BMW 525IA repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.