2012 BMW 535i GT
The 2012 BMW 535i GT (Gran Turismo) is a unique blend of sedan, wagon, and crossover, offering a spacious interior and a higher seating position compared to a traditional sedan. The 535i GT model comes equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine (N55 engine) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2012 5 Series GT include a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 in the 550i GT. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the 535i GT for its luxurious ride, ample rear legroom, and hatchback practicality. However, some dislike its unconventional styling and the higher maintenance costs associated with BMW vehicles.
Engine
N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning light.
- Solution: Replace the faulty gasket or seal. Thoroughly clean the affected area after the repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the location of the leak and the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can experience problems with the solenoids. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased engine performance, and error codes related to VANOS.
- Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: While less common on the N55 compared to the N63 V8, turbocharger issues can still occur. These can include wastegate rattle, boost leaks, or complete turbocharger failure. Symptoms include loss of power, unusual noises, and error codes.
- Solution: Diagnosis will determine if the wastegate actuator needs adjustment, if there’s a boost leak needing repair, or if the turbocharger needs replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the specific issue and if the turbo needs replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The 8-speed automatic transmission can experience issues with the valve body. This can cause harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete loss of gear engagement.
- Solution: The valve body can sometimes be rebuilt, but often it needs to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on whether rebuild or replacement is necessary.
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Unit Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can develop faults. Symptoms include delayed shifting, erratic gear changes, and transmission malfunction warnings.
- Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Malfunctions (Rear)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear air suspension system is prone to failures, including air leaks in the air springs (bags) or malfunctions with the air compressor. This can result in the vehicle sitting unevenly, a bumpy ride, and warning lights.
- Solution: Replace the faulty air spring(s) or air compressor. Check for leaks in the air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on which components need replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The 535i GT can suffer from excessive battery drain, often caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits for an extended period.
- Solution: Diagnosis is required to identify the parasitic draw. Common culprits include the comfort access system, iDrive system, and various control modules. Once identified, the faulty component needs to be replaced or reprogrammed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the component causing the drain and the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience various issues, including screen freezes, unresponsive controls, and software glitches.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the iDrive controller or head unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Panoramic Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can experience problems such as motor failure, binding, or leaks. This can result in difficulty opening or closing the sunroof, excessive noise, or water intrusion into the cabin.
- Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals. Proper lubrication of the moving parts can also help prevent issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the door from locking or unlocking properly.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Power seat motors can fail, limiting the ability to adjust the seat position.
- Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 BMW 535i GT, while offering a unique driving experience and practicality, has several common issues to be aware of. Engine oil leaks and VANOS issues are common for the N55 engine. Transmission problems, particularly with the valve body and mechatronic unit, can be costly to repair. The air suspension system is another potential source of expensive repairs. Electrical problems, such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions, can also occur. Overall, potential buyers should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance costs due to the complexity of the vehicle and the potential for these issues to arise. Severity can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.