Reuters reported yesterday (article here) that BMW has offered a $478M settlement for a class-action lawsuit concerning water leaks into the trunk of the E60 (2004-2010 5 Series...)

The suit alleges that clogged sunroof drainage tubes and other issues caused leaks into the spare tire compartment, damaging electronic modules mounted there. The suit further alleges that complaints, warranty claims, and service bulletins show BMW knew about the problems as early as 2004 but chose to ignore them.

Terms of the settlement (which must still be approved by the judge) include reimbursements of up to $1,500 for repairs already performed, and a free inspection (with repairs paid for if needed) of cars less than 10 years old with fewer than 120,000 miles. Oh, and all cars get a label warning owners not to spill liquids in the trunk.

An additional article is here on Consumerist.