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2009 BMW 535i xDrive

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2009 BMW 535i xDrive is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The xDrive denotes that it is all-wheel drive. The 535i models were offered with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N54) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The 2009 528i had a 230-hp 3.0 liter inline-6, and the 550i had a 360-hp 4.8 liter V8. The 535i xDrive was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s handling, powerful engine (especially the 535i), and luxurious interior. However, common complaints include high maintenance costs, electrical issues, and problems related to the N54 engine’s turbocharging system.

Engine

N54 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idling, and a check engine light. The car may go into limp mode or stall.
    • Solution: Replacement of the HPFP. There was a recall for this issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
    • Recalls: SIB 13 04 10
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and reduced performance. Can lead to catalytic converter damage if left unaddressed. Often accompanied by fuel smell.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors. BMW has released updated injector versions.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per injector (parts and labor)
  • Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing sound from the rear of the engine, especially noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: In some cases, the wastegate actuator can be adjusted. More often, turbocharger replacement is needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ (for adjustment) / $2000 - $4000+ (for turbo replacement)
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Visible oil drips or burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per gasket (parts and labor)
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, and check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (parts and labor)

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, jerking, or a general lack of smoothness in shifting.
    • Solution: Fluid flush and replacement, valve body repair or replacement, or transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ (fluid flush) / $1000 - $3000+ (valve body) / $4000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic unit sleeve, often causing shifting issues.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and fluid flush.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision and vibration at higher speeds.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings or complete control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm (parts and labor)
  • Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and visible oil leaks from the struts/shocks.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn struts/shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ per axle (parts and labor)

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Car failing to start, requiring frequent jump starts, or exhibiting electrical malfunctions. Often caused by parasitic drain from a faulty module.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic drain source and repair or replacement of the faulty module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Frozen screen, system reboots, or complete failure of the iDrive system.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the entire iDrive unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update) / $500 - $2000+ (parts and labor for hardware replacement)
  • Xenon Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Flickering headlights, failure of one or both headlights, or error messages on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the headlight bulbs, ballasts, or the entire headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per headlight (parts and labor)

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on body panels, especially around wheel wells and door edges.
    • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof makes noises when opening or closing, or gets stuck.
    • Solution: Lubricate the rails, or replace the sunroof motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+

Summary

The 2009 BMW 535i xDrive, while offering a rewarding driving experience, is prone to several common issues. Engine-related problems, particularly concerning the N54 engine’s HPFP, fuel injectors, and turbochargers, can be costly. Transmission issues, electrical problems, and suspension wear are also prevalent. The overall cost of ownership can be high due to the potential for expensive repairs. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and be prepared for potential maintenance expenses.

BMW, 535i xDrive
BMW 535i xDrive 2009
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