2011 BMW 535i GT xDrive

Alright, here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2011 BMW 535i GT xDrive, formatted for your website.

The 2011 BMW 535i GT xDrive is a luxury hatchback known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and performance capabilities. This model came standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine (N55B30) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 5 Series GT for this year include a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 (N63B44). Transmission options are primarily an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s unique design and versatility, while common criticisms include its large size, somewhat polarizing styling, and potential for expensive repairs due to its complex systems.

Engine

N55B30 (3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6)

• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased engine power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the oil filter housing, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long cranking times, engine stalling, lack of power, check engine light. This was a common issue with earlier N54 engines and while improved in the N55, failures still occur.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, burning oil smell, smoke from engine bay.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found

N63B44 (4.4L Twin-Turbo V8) * Oil Leaks * Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks that are prevalent in the N63 engine. Commonly found around the valve stem seals, coolant transfer pipes, and turbochargers. * Solution: Replace the valve stem seals, coolant transfer pipes, and turbocharger seals. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP Automatic Transmission

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, rough shifting, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, “Self-Leveling Suspension Inactive” warning.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Spring/Strut Failure (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, hissing sound from air leak.
  • Solution: Replace the air spring/strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1400 per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty comfort access module, or other modules not properly going into sleep mode.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive Controller Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive system malfunctions, unresponsive controller.
  • Solution: Replace the iDrive controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jamming, not closing properly, motor failure, excessive wind noise.
  • Solution: Lubricate tracks, repair or replace the motor or complete sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly, motor noise without movement.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 per motor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 BMW 535i GT xDrive, while offering a luxurious and versatile driving experience, is prone to several issues, particularly related to its engine (especially oil leaks on the N63), air suspension, and electrical systems. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for the air suspension and more complex engine repairs. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including getting a pre-purchase inspection.