2011 BMW 535i xDrive
The 2011 BMW 535i xDrive is a luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The model you specified is equipped with a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine (N55) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2011 5 Series include the 528i (3.0L naturally aspirated inline-6) and the 550i (4.4L twin-turbo V8). The 535i xDrive comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s refined handling, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include potential for expensive repairs, especially as the car ages, and complex electronics.
Engine
N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idle, engine misfires, and potential stalling. The car may throw codes related to fuel pressure.
- Solution: Replacing the High-Pressure Fuel Pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing area, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover, potentially dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell. Also, visible oil around the valve cover.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, engine hesitation, and potentially a check engine light.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing the VANOS solenoids.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic unit sleeve, often leading to shifting problems or warning messages.
- Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and potentially refreshing the transmission fluid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body, or complete transmission replacement if the damage is extensive.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Steering may feel loose or vague.
- Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
- Adaptive Drive (if equipped) Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard related to the suspension system. Erratic handling, especially in corners.
- Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty components in the Adaptive Drive system, such as actuators, sensors, or the hydraulic pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ (highly variable depending on the failed component)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car sits for a few days. Difficulty starting the car.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic drain. Common culprits include the comfort access system, the iDrive system, or faulty modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the iDrive screen or controller.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the entire iDrive head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Xenon Headlight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Flickering, dimming, or complete failure of the xenon headlights.
- Solution: Replacing the xenon bulbs, ballasts, or igniters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Issues (Comfort Access)
- Description/Symptoms: Door handles not responding to touch (for cars equipped with comfort access).
- Solution: Replacing the affected door handle(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per handle
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, or replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The power seats not adjusting correctly, making grinding noises, or failing to move at all.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor or repairing the wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2011 BMW 535i xDrive, while offering a luxurious and sporty driving experience, is prone to several issues that can lead to expensive repairs. The most concerning problems revolve around the engine (especially the HPFP, oil leaks, and VANOS), the transmission (mechatronic sleeve leaks and valve body issues), and the electrical system (battery drain and iDrive malfunctions). Suspension issues are also common. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission or iDrive replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.