loud 525i

i've just bought a 1989 525i, it has 87K miles, the exhaust has no leaks, but it is loud at the tailpipe. I plan on replacing the rear muffler, but am not sure it is the problem. I would hate to put the new muffler on and have it sound the same way. Are these mufflers known to to go bad??

I also purchased a 1989 525i, and it too is loud... so I am also interested in feedback. Is this normal for the 525?- Although it's loud, it is a nice sounding engine indeed!

I own a 92 525i that is loud as well. Apparently the baffles go out in these mufflers before any physical deterioration is noted. The price on these things is outrageous. Does anyone know of an aftermarket alternative???

Following up on our new '89 525i from the 2nd post above... Our mechanic confirmed that our car sounds normal... a "sporty" growl with lots of engine feel / feedback. Unlike a typical "luxury" car. Good news because he also confirmed the high cost of replacement!

What are the HP and torque figures on this car? I raced one tonight, i was behind him, he took off first, i gained on him a little, then we held dead even until i hit 4th gear then i gain back and 5th keep gaining, but i barely got into 5th before i shut down and let him go ahead into a crazy turrn crazy fast. I drive a 95 Integra LS w/ intake and engine problems (irratic idle and possible bad rod bearing)

i've just bought a 1989 525i, it has 87K miles, the exhaust has no leaks, but it is loud at the tailpipe. I plan on replacing the rear muffler, but am not sure it is the problem. I would hate to put the new muffler on and have it sound the same way. Are these mufflers known to to go bad??

yes, the mufflers are known to go bad on the 5 series. But you can replaces it with any aftermarket brand mufflers. I known that the bmw muffler have two pipes going out. But you can replaced it with one pipe going out. I did it with my 5 series and the noise is now a lot quieter. The cost should range from $70-$100.00 that includes the muffler tip and labor...

I also purchased a 1989 525i, and it too is loud... so I am also interested in feedback. Is this normal for the 525?- Although it's loud, it is a nice sounding engine indeed!


I drive an 89 525i and even with a new exhaust it still is loud in comparison to other cars in its class..... I too have been told that this is normal for the straight 6 525i. My car is quiet enough at idle but if you put the foot down it will growl like any other straight 6 sports car!