The 1998 BMW 5 Series has 2 recalls, the more serious affecting 528i models where a faulty transmission gear position switch seal can allow the car to start while in Drive or Reverse.
Water can work its way into the transmission gear position switch over time, causing it to misread which gear is selected. The result is that the vehicle may not start at all, or it may start and lurch forward or backward unexpectedly. The second recall affects 540i models and involves a differential pinion shaft that wears prematurely, first producing noise from the rear axle and eventually causing a complete loss of drive power to the rear wheels.
At a glance
What can fail
The differential pinion shaft wasn't properly hardened, causing premature wear that leads to noise and eventual loss of rear axle drive.
What the fix does
The entire differential assembly will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The seal on the transmission gear position switch can wear and leak, letting water in. This may cause the transmission position indicator to show the wrong gear, preventing the vehicle from starting or allowing it to start while in Drive or Reverse.
What the fix does
The transmission gear position switch will be replaced with an improved version that has better sealing.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
