2011 BMW 535i GT

The 2011 BMW 535i GT (Gran Turismo) is a unique vehicle that blends the practicality of a hatchback with the luxury and styling of a sedan. It offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a distinctive design. While praised for its versatility and premium features, it is not without its potential problems. Engine options for the 2011 535i GT include the N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 (300 hp, 300 lb-ft of torque). The other available engine is the N63 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 (400 hp, 450 lb-ft of torque). Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some common complaints include the car’s polarizing styling, potential for high repair costs, and some reliability concerns. Owners enjoy the car’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engines.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung) system can experience issues, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and error codes.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty VANOS solenoids or gears.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric water pump is known to fail, resulting in overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

N63 4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the N55, oil leaks are a common issue, often from the valve stem seals, valve cover gaskets, and turbo oil lines. These leaks can cause smoke from the exhaust and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can fail or develop issues like wastegate rattle and oil leaks, resulting in reduced power and performance.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The N63 engine runs hot, leading to cooling system failures, including radiator leaks, hose failures, and water pump issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve, which seals the transmission wiring harness, can leak, leading to transmission malfunctions and slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and potentially performing a transmission service.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can lead to shuddering, erratic shifting, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear air suspension can experience issues like leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, and ride height sensor problems. This can result in a sagging rear end and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected components (air struts, compressor, ride height sensors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may experience excessive battery drain due to faulty modules or parasitic draws. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and fixing the source of the parasitic draw (often requires specialized equipment and knowledge).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience software glitches, screen failures, and controller malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, screen replacement, or controller replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can experience issues like motor failure, binding, and leaks.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks, replacing the motor, or repairing leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat motors can fail, preventing the seats from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2011 BMW 535i GT can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The engine problems, particularly oil leaks and cooling system issues on the N63 engine, can lead to expensive repairs. Suspension problems and electrical gremlins are also common concerns. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly to fix, making it important to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Overall, be prepared to spend money on repairs and maintenance.