2011 BMW 535i

Introduction

The 2011 BMW 535i is a luxury sedan powered by a 3.0L N55 inline-6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The 535i is praised for its handling, performance, and interior quality, but criticized for its high price and fuel consumption.

Engine

• N55 3.0L Inline-6
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficult starting, engine misfires
    • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 13V366000
  • Valve Cover and Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover or gasket
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or both the valve cover and gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the turbocharger during acceleration or deceleration
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Shifting Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace the transmission or specific components within the transmission (e.g., clutch, synchronizers)
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • ZF 8HP70 Transmission
    • Mechatronic Unit Failure
      • Description/Symptoms: Loss of gears, delayed shifting
      • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
      • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 16V923000
    • Valve Body Failure
      • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts
      • Solution: Replace the valve body
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
      • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when turning or over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride comfort, excessive bounce
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar End Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when turning or over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge even when the car is not in use
  • Solution: Diagnose and address the source of the battery drain (e.g., faulty module, parasitic power draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various issues depending on the affected module (e.g., lighting problems, communication errors)
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the faulty electrical module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system malfunction, screen glitches
  • Solution: Update or replace the navigation system software
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Water droplets or fog inside the headlight assemblies
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies or repair the seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exterior Trim Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: Chrome or black exterior trim peeling off
  • Solution: Replace the affected trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the instrument cluster display
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor or other components within the sunroof mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 BMW 535i is a well-engineered luxury sedan, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include high-pressure fuel pump failure, valve cover leaks, turbocharger wastegate rattle, transmission problems, and electrical issues. While these issues can be costly to repair, they do not seem to be widespread and should not deter potential buyers from considering this vehicle. Overall, the 535i remains a solid choice for those looking for a powerful and stylish luxury sedan.