2011 BMW 335i

The 2011 BMW 335i is a popular choice among enthusiasts, known for its blend of performance and luxury. The standard engine is a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (N55) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. While it’s loved for its responsive handling, stylish design, and potent engine, it’s also known for some common issues. Some common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to other vehicles in its class and the potential for expensive repairs as the car ages. The 2011 335i was offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Low oil level warning may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, often dripping down the side of the engine. Burning oil smell is common.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential engine damage. The car may display a warning message indicating high engine temperature.
  • Solution: Replace the electric water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and potential for fuel leaks.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per injector
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, and potential stalling. Error codes related to VANOS system.
  • Solution: Replace faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (GM GA6L45R)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic sleeve, leading to slipping or rough shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Cracked Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Poor handling and wandering.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. Can be caused by a faulty module not going into sleep mode or parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $450
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof mechanism, which could involve replacing the motor, cables, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking iDrive Controller
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive controller knob may become sticky or difficult to turn.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the iDrive controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 BMW 335i is a performance-oriented vehicle that can be enjoyable to own but requires diligent maintenance. The most common issues revolve around the engine and its associated components (oil leaks, water pump, fuel injectors) and potential transmission issues, especially for the automatic variant. Suspension components are also prone to wear. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more significant engine or transmission work. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.