Pluses, minuses, good, bad & ugly?

 

Timing chain guides go bad. That's the big issue with them. If this service has already been done then you are good to go. There are a few other things to look out for, but the timing chain guides are quite expensive to replace. If you look up any BMW E39 540i buyers guide they'll go into detail on the engine.

 

They are good engines, my 2001 740iL has 211K miles on it and it doesn't burn a drop of oil. I did have to do the timing chains but not a big deal if you take your time.