2012 BMW 335i

The 2012 BMW 335i is a popular choice in the F30 generation, known for its blend of performance and luxury. The 335i specifically stands out because of the turbocharged engine options it has. While known for its fun driving experience, some issues are common across the model. Owners appreciate the car’s handling, styling, and overall driving dynamics. However, common complaints include the car’s high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs.

The 2012 BMW 3 Series comes with a few engine options. The 328i has a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 that makes 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. The 335i has a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6, which has 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. There is also a diesel engine option, the 328d, which has a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 making 180 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine, visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak down the side of the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, rough idle, hesitation upon acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine bay, especially during cold starts or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wastegate actuator or complete turbocharger replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (actuator) or $1500 - $3000+ (turbocharger)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP45Z)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, rough shifting, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible oil leakage from the shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car is dead in the morning. Requires jump starts. Battery drains quickly.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draws in the electrical system, replace faulty modules, and register a new battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Window motor failure, windows won’t go up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues (Comfort Access)
  • Description/Symptoms: Comfort Access door handles failing to unlock or lock the car, requiring manual key use.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or cover it with a trim piece.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (replacement), $200 - $500 (trim piece)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 BMW 335i, while a performance-oriented vehicle, does come with a number of common issues. Engine-related problems such as oil leaks and HPFP failure can be costly to address. The automatic transmission can also experience issues requiring expensive repairs. Suspension and electrical problems add to the overall maintenance burden. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the costs of potential repairs when considering purchasing this vehicle.