Bmw 535i problems
The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972, succeeding the New Class Sedans, and currently in its eight generation.
The 5 Series was initially available as a sedan, with a wagon/estate body style (marketed as "Touring") added in 1991 and a 5-door fastback configuration (marketed as "Gran Turismo") available from 2009 to 2017. Each successive generation carries a distinct internal E- designation.
The first generation of 5 Series was powered by naturally aspirated four-cylinder and six-cylinder petrol engines. Following generations have been powered by four-cylinder, six-cylinder, V8 and V10 engines that are either naturally aspirated or turbocharged. Since 1982, diesel engines have been included in the 5 Series range.
The 5 Series is BMW's second-best-selling model after the 3 Series. On 29 January 2008, the 5 millionth 5 Series was manufactured, a 530d sedan in Carbon Black Metallic.
BMW's three-digit model naming convention began with the first 5 Series, thus the 5 Series was BMW's first model line to use "Series" in the name.
Since the E28, all generations of 5 Series have included an "M" model, called the BMW M5.
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Bmw 535i model years
Common Bmw 535i problems
The BMW 535i is a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride and comfortable interior. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems that owners have reported.
One common issue with the BMW 535i is the outside mirror over-folding. This can occur when the car is parked in a tight space, and the mirror folds too far back, causing it to hit the car's body. This can result in damage to the mirror or the car's body, and it can be costly to repair.
Another problem that has been reported by BMW 535i owners is leaking power steering hoses. This can cause a loss of power steering fluid, making it difficult to steer the car. In some cases, it can also cause the power steering system to fail completely, which can be dangerous while driving.
Worn tension strut brushings that loosen the front suspension is another common problem with the BMW 535i. This can cause a knocking or clunking noise when driving over bumps or turning. It can also affect the car's handling and make it more difficult to control. Replacing the tension strut brushings can be a costly repair, but it is necessary to ensure the car's safety and performance.
The timing chain in the BMW 535i can also be a problem. The timing chain is a critical component of the engine, and if it fails, it can cause significant damage to the engine. Replacing the timing chain can be a costly repair, but it is necessary to prevent further damage to the engine.
The fuel pump is another component that can cause problems in the BMW 535i. If the fuel pump fails, it can cause the engine to stall or fail to start. Replacing the fuel pump can be a costly repair, but it is necessary to ensure the car's reliability and performance.
In addition to these common problems, the BMW 535i is also prone to issues with the cooling system. The 2008 model year, in particular, has been identified as the worst model year for the BMW 535i, with a high number of complaints related to the cooling system. The most-reported problem is water pump failure, which can cause the engine to overheat and potentially lead to engine damage. The average cost to fix this problem is $1,000, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 85,000 miles.
In summary, the BMW 535i is a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride and comfortable interior. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems that owners have reported. These include issues with the outside mirror, power steering hoses, tension strut brushings, timing chain, fuel pump, and cooling system. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help ensure the car's safety and performance.
Is the BMW 535i reliable?
The BMW 535i Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 18th out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $977 which means it has poor ownership costs.
What is the main problem with the BMW 5 Series?
BMW 5 Series air suspension problem
Rear air suspension issues are common in the 5 Series Gran Turismo, causing symptoms such as the vehicle leaning to one side, sagging at the rear, a loud bag from the suspension airbag, and hissing noises.
How long can a BMW 535i last?
Almost any BMW has the potential to run for up to 200,000 or even 250,000 miles with proper maintenance–and there are always going to be outliers that go further. Since every new BMW includes complimentary factory-recommended maintenance through BMW Ultimate Care, it's easy to start off on the right foot.
Which is better BMW 528i or 535i?
Differences. The 528i has a 2.0L turbo 4 cylinder engine that delivers 240 hp. The bigger engine in the 535i is a 3.0L turbo-6 packing 300 hp. The 528i provides leatherette seating, whereas the 535i has real leather upholstery.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 535i years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 535i cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 535i model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 535i model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 535i years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw 535i car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 535i , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Tires problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 535i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 535i model years
A total of 15 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 535i model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 535i model years
There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 414 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 535i . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 535i vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw 535i 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WBAFU7C5XCD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the engine temperature and "Pull Over - Stop Vehicle" warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over and let the vehicle cool down and drove to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The mechanic advised the contact that there was an active recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.
Bmw 535i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: WBA5B1C58FD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the message that the engine was overheating was displayed, with a message to “Drive Moderately” displayed as well. The driver started to slow down and the message to turn off the engine was displayed. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle four times and waited 15 to 20 minutes. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
Bmw 535i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: WBA5B3C56FD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 BMW 535I. The contact stated that occasionally while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and shut off. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed; however, the result of the diagnostic test was not provided. The contact stated that the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was taken to a local Midas where it was diagnosed that the water pump was exposed to water and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.
Bmw 535i 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving approximately 50–55 MPH, the engine overheated and the vehicle shutoff. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted. The contact continued to drive to her residence. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V746000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the failure was due to the fuel pump and the water pump. The water pump and fuel pump were replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000. The VIN was not available.
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-01
- VIN: WBAFR7C56BC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was losing motive power and was running rough. The contact stated that the instrument cluster went black. The contact turned into a parking lot as the vehicle stalled. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle but after several attempts failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact had an independent mechanic diagnose the vehicle at the residence. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the VANOS bolts had fractured and the timing camshaft had detached. The mechanic advised the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Bmw 535i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: WBA5B3C58FD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The car that I just bought has a problem with the axle and is causing the car to pull to the right.
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-21
- VIN: WBASN2C56BC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle is having cooling/ heat problems. Does not overheat while driving but rather driving on high temp. Cools to norm temp here and there. My best thought is electrical. Also same vehicle rattles in rear center when going 65mph.. not sure the cause is.
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-24
- VIN: WBAFU7C58BC
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: BMW REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY OF CONSEQUENTIAL ISSUES CAUSED MY FAULTY FUEL PUMP RECALL AND IS TRYING TO CHARGE ME 21000 to fix. Engine reads maximum drivetrain output drive moderately
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-11
- VIN: WBAFR7C52BC
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Been fixing an unknown issue due to fuel presure, loss of engine power and car gets extra hot but doesn’t over heat, I have fixed the issue more on 2 different occasions. I didn’t pass the smog text so that’s when I was told to check for any recalls, now the issues returned with same problems and probably won’t pass smog again. I have all recorded from all the years of maintenance and I’m very diligent on on time maintenance or if theirs is any kind of malfunction. I’m now addressing the situation to you as I believe that there’s something wrong that’s beyond my control. I’ve also encountered other people with same vehicle with similar issues.
Bmw 535i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-11
- VIN: WBA5B3C52FD
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Here is the video about how the part fails. I uploaded this video to youtube. You can pass this video to BMW, that is your prerogative, [XXX] My cars has the angle sensor error, and calling for irregular communication with other modules. I am sure he reasons for this are in the video. Lastly I will upload error codes my scanner detected. The steering angle control fails in all BMWs 5 series over 70% of the time after 8 years. The part has been designed, defectively. The internal wire breaks because of the design of the part, as you will be able to see in the attached Youtube video, demonstrating the damaged cable and how it happens, because of bad design. A faulty part, leads to limited steering, and if this happens suddenly the driver can lose control of the car, unable to steer, and crash, hit a pedestrian, a wall and building. As small person not string, could easily end up crashing something or someone. I find this level of design for planned obsolescence fraudulent. I hope you let the hammer of the law fall hard on BMW. My steering angle controlled just failed. When I found out why it failed, it made me furious. I will take my car tomorrow for repairs. Hopefully you put the recall Monday morning. This is sufficient evidence. The You Tuber that made the video, was eloquent in his demonstration, but the internet is full of these videos, and that means many many failing parts, and likely already a few dead people. Look into it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw 535i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-06
- VIN: WBAFU7C55DD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlight Assembly has issues with the seal and condensation can/does enter the headlight assembly rendering the functionality of the headlight as suspect. Without proper lighting and condensation in front of the headlight which greatly impacts/effects the clarity and visibility of objects in the front of the car creating a safety issue. The cost to replace/repair these assemblies is excessive and is a widespread problem across multiple BMW models/years.
Bmw 535i 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-30
- VIN: WBA5B3C53ED
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: LEFT LIGHT IS NOT WORKING. I HAVE TO USE MY BRIGHT LIGHTS TO HAVE LIGHTS AT NIGHT. I HAVE NOTICE THIS ON SEVERAL OTHER BMW'S IN THIS YEAR RANGE 2013-2014. SOMETHING ELECTRICAL IS WRONG WITH THIS LIGHT.
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-17
- VIN: WBAFR7C54BC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Hello, I received a recall notice almost 6 months ago on my car and I have been in contact with BMW Corporate and they have been completely useless (This is my first BMW and it will be my last). I haven't been able to drive my car for almost 6 months due to the VANOS engine bolt recall. My car has been experiencing the symptoms of stalling, loss of power and it has gone into Safe mode. I have called McKenna BMW in Norwalk and was told not to drive the car because it isn't safe to do so. and by the Owner of Orange Motors who is a Specialty Shop for BMW owners. I have called BMW Corporate numerous times and sent multiple emails ( i can't even get a response to my emails) and cant get any assistance in getting my car fixed. I asked BMW for assistance in getting a rental car and they said that is the responsibility of the dealership and the dealership is telling me that I need to call BMW Corporate. I spoke to a woman named Jenny at BMW corporate about 2 - 3 weeks ago and she told me to call the dealership and explain what is going on with my car and request that a special case be opened so rush my parts needed to fix my car and I still can't get any help. I have called Sterling BMW & Crevier BMW and they made it very clear they do not have the parts to fix my car, I mentioned what BMW corporate told me and they acted like they had no clue what I was talking about. I told them that my car is dead in my garage as it has been sitting for about 6 months. I just keep getting passed around and all I am trying to do is get my car fixed so I can drive it. I have had a rental car for 6 months now because I can't drive my own car as it is unsafe. I would just like my car fixed please assist me in getting help from BMW because they keep brushing me off. Can I pay to have the car fixed and get reimbursed? This is their product/brand and they should offer better assistance in getting it fixed. It's ridiculous that it's been 6 months and still no repair options. What a joke.
Bmw 535i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-28
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBAFR7C52BC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 535i. The contact stated while jump-starting another vehicle in the driveway, he reversed to park the vehicle by the side of the other vehicle; however, the vehicle surged and accelerated unintendedly. The contact stated that he depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle sped into the garage, hit equipment, and hit the contact's wife. The contact stated that he then shifted into drive (D) to drive out of the garage; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle sped through the driveway, struck a stone retaining wall, and entered the roadway. The contact stated that he slightly steered the vehicle to the right and hit a utility pole to stop the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. The contact hit his forehead against the rearview mirror and sustained a bruise. The contact's wife sustained a fractured left lower leg. The ambulance transported the contact's wife to the hospital, where she underwent surgery. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The insurance company then towed the vehicle to another tow lot, where the damage was being estimated. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
Bmw 535i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-22
- VIN: WBA5B3C50FD
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message “Passenger Restraint Air Bag Malfunction" was displayed. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 132,000.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw 535i
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Bmw 535i.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw 535i 2014
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-11
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo, and 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
- Remedy: The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 535i 2011
- Report Received Date: 2017-02-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2012 135i Coupe, 1 Series M Coupe and 135i Convertible vehicles, 2011 Z4 sDrive 35i, 335i, 335d, 335i Coupe, 335is Coupe, 335i Convertible, 335is Convertible, 535i, 535i xDrive, 535i Gran Turismo and 550i xDrive Gran Turismo vehicles and 2012 740i and 740Li vehicles. The rear driveshaft constant velocity (CV) joint on the affected vehicles may fatigue and break.
- Consequence: If the CV joint breaks, the vehicle may have a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear driveshaft CV joint and, based on its production date, will replace it, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 535i 2016
- Report Received Date: 2016-12-20
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, Mini 4-Door Cooper, Cooper S, Mini 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and 2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, M5 and 535d vehicles. The affected vehicles have seat- mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash.
- Consequence: If the air bag inflator initiator fails to ignite, the seat-mounted air bag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began February 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 535i 2011
- Report Received Date: 2016-11-17
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2011 BMW 528i, 528xi, 535i, 535xi, 550i and 550xi vehicles manufactured March 1, 2010, through August 31, 2011. The affected vehicles may have received a replacement Sensor Cluster Unit (SCU) during a service visit. These SCUs have an acceleration sensor that may have been incorrectly programmed and, as a result, the SCU may not accurately determine if activation and deployment of the air bags, safety belt pre-tensioners and head restraints is necessary in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: Depending on the severity of the crash, inadequate activation of the driver and/or passenger air bags, safety belt pre-tensioners and active head restraints may increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the SCU, free of charge. The recall began on December 16, 2016. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 535i 2012
- Report Received Date: 2016-10-17
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.
- Consequence: The loose wires may cause the connector to melt, resulting in a fuel leak. Additionally, the fuel pump may stop working, possibly causing an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. The recall began February 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
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