2013 BMW 135i

Introduction:

The 2013 BMW 135i is a high-performance coupe powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L N55 inline-6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 135i is praised for its excellent handling, stylish design, and potent powertrain, but it has also been met with some common issues.

Engine

• N55 3.0L Inline-6
  • Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, misfiring
    • Solution: Chemical cleaning or walnut shell blasting of intake valves
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, difficulty starting, reduced power
    • Solution: Replace high-pressure fuel pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 13V-163
• N54 3.0L Inline-6 (Optional):
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Manual:
  • Synchronizer Wear:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace synchronizers and other affected parts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• 8-Speed Automatic:
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fails to shift correctly, erratic shifting, loss of drive
    • Solution: Replace mechatronic unit
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 16V-381

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or knocking noises from front suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains prematurely, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix electrical drain (e.g., faulty radio, parasitic draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• Fog Light Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulates inside fog lights
  • Solution: Replace fog lights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Headliner Sagging (Optional Panorama Roof): * Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric separates from the roof * Solution: Replace headliner * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary:

While the 2013 BMW 135i is a capable and enjoyable sports coupe, it is not without its issues. The most significant problems include carbon buildup on intake valves, high-pressure fuel pump failure, mechatronic unit failure, and suspension component wear. It is important to note that these issues are not universal and may only affect a small number of vehicles. However, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchase decision.