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2008 BMW 535xi

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2008 BMW 535xi is an all-wheel drive variant of the E60 5-Series, offering a blend of luxury and performance. The primary engine option for the 535xi is the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six (N54) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the car’s driving dynamics, luxurious interior, and sophisticated styling. Common complaints often revolve around the car’s reliability, particularly with the N54 engine and the cost of repairs.

Engine

N54 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-Six

  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Long cranks, intermittent stalling, rough idling, and a half-engine light or check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the HPFP. BMW issued extended warranties and recalls for certain HPFPs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
    • Recalls: Recall Campaign No. 09V-272 (HPFP)
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, fuel smell, and poor fuel economy. Often related to leaking injectors.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per injector (parts and labor)
  • Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the rear of the engine, especially during acceleration and deceleration.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the turbochargers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+ for turbocharger replacement.
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Filter Housing Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gasket: $300 - $600, Oil Filter Housing Gasket: $300 - $500, Oil Pan Gasket: $800 - $1500+
  • Coolant Leaks (Water Pump, Thermostat Housing)
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, low coolant level, visible coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replacement of the water pump, thermostat, and/or associated hoses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Water Pump: $600 - $1000, Thermostat Housing: $300 - $500

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM GA6L45R/Aisin GA6HP26Z)

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, rough shifting, slippage, or transmission malfunction warnings.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and fluid service.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, vibrations at highway speeds, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the control arms or just the bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Rear Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, failure to maintain ride height, air compressor malfunction.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, air compressor, or associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Springs: $400 - $800+ per side, Air Compressor: $500 - $1000+

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drains, replacement of the battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the source of the drain.
  • ABS/DSC Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS and DSC warning lights, loss of ABS and stability control functionality.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the ABS/DSC module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling or swiveling properly, error messages on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of headlight motors, sensors, or the entire headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+

Exterior

  • Door Handle Cable Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handle feeling loose or not opening the door.
    • Solution: Replacement of the door handle cable.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

  • iDrive Controller Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control iDrive functions, unresponsive controller.
    • Solution: Replacement of the iDrive controller.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises, leaks.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Summary

The 2008 BMW 535xi, while a desirable vehicle for its performance and luxury, suffers from several common issues. The N54 engine is particularly prone to problems with the HPFP, fuel injectors, and oil leaks. Suspension and electrical issues can also be costly to repair. Overall, owning a 2008 535xi requires diligence in maintenance and the potential for significant repair expenses.

BMW, 535xi
BMW 535xi 2008
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