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1991 BMW 535i

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By Research the Car 2 min read

1991 BMW 535i

The 1991 BMW 535i is a luxury sedan that was powered by a 3.5-liter inline-6 engine and paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 208 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. The 535i was praised for its performance, handling, and interior quality, but it was also known for some common issues.

Engine

  • M30B35 Inline-6 Engine
    • Intake Cam Chain Tensioner Failure: The cam chain tensioner can fail, leading to chain slack and potential engine damage. Symptoms: Noisy engine, loss of power. Solution: Replace the tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
    • Head Gasket Failure: The head gasket can fail, leading to coolant leaks and engine overheating. Symptoms: White or blue smoke from the exhaust, loss of coolant. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

Transmission

  • Getrag 260 5-Speed Manual Transmission:
    • Shift Linkage Wear: The shift linkage can wear over time, making it difficult to shift gears. Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises. Solution: Replace the shift linkage. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
  • ZF 4HP-22 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
    • TCC Solenoid Failure: The torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid can fail, leading to transmission slipping and overheating. Symptoms: Slipping gears, harsh shifting. Solution: Replace the TCC solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Wear: The front control arm bushings can wear out, leading to poor handling and tire wear. Symptoms: Loose or unstable steering, excessive tire wear. Solution: Replace the bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, leading to electrical system issues and a dead battery. Symptoms: Dimming lights, loss of electrical accessories. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Seal Failure: The sunroof seal can fail, leading to water leaks. Symptoms: Water in the interior, mold or mildew. Solution: Replace the seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, causing windows to stick or fail to operate. Symptoms: Inoperative windows, grinding noises. Solution: Replace the motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Failure: The climate control system can fail, leading to problems with heating or cooling. Symptoms: Inoperative climate controls, insufficient heating or cooling. Solution: Replace the climate control module or related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 BMW 535i is a well-regarded luxury sedan, but it is not without its issues. The engine, transmission, and suspension components have been known to fail, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, electrical and interior issues can also arise. Overall, the severity of the issues and the cost to fix them can vary depending on the specific problem.

BMW, 535i
BMW 535i 1991
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