2013 BMW 335is

The 2013 BMW 335is is a performance-oriented coupe or convertible within the E92/E93 3-Series generation. It’s powered exclusively by the N54 twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 320 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque (with an overboost function temporarily increasing torque to 370 lb-ft). Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). Owners generally praise the car for its engaging driving dynamics, powerful engine, and distinctive styling. Common complaints often revolve around higher maintenance costs compared to non-performance BMW models, and the age-related wear and tear that comes with owning a used vehicle.

Engine

N54 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-Six

• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, long starts, engine misfires, hesitation under acceleration, limp mode, and eventually complete failure to start. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to fuel pressure are often present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wastegate Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling or buzzing sound from the rear of the engine, especially during cold starts, acceleration, or deceleration. This is due to worn wastegate bushings within the turbochargers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbochargers (the recommended, but expensive, fix) or repair/replacement of the wastegate linkage (more affordable, but may not be a permanent solution).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 (Wastegate repair) - $4000+ (Turbocharger replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Filter Housing Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the respective gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per gasket
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, fuel smell, and potential catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine which injectors are failing, followed by replacement of the faulty injectors. Sometimes replacing all injectors is recommended, along with decoupling elements. Index 11 or higher are recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high RPMs without corresponding acceleration, burning smell.
  • Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, throw-out bearing).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, jerky engagement, delayed shifts, transmission malfunction warnings, limp mode.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the mechatronic unit (the transmission control unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling, leaking fluid from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on brand and if replacing springs also)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car fails to start after sitting for a short period, frequent battery replacement, error messages related to low voltage. Often caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the source of the battery drain, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door does not lock or unlock with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking windshield washer fluid, low washer fluid warning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield washer fluid reservoir.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard of some E9x models, including the 335is, are known to get sticky.
  • Solution: Thorough cleaning with a special cleaner and detailing products, or replacing the dashboard, which is not recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100+ for cleaning products, $1,000+ for new dashboard.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 BMW 335is, while a desirable performance car, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine-related problems, particularly those associated with the N54 engine’s HPFP, turbochargers, and oil leaks, are common and can be costly to address. DCT transmission issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems also contribute to the overall maintenance burden. While some issues are relatively minor, others can require significant investment to repair, making it crucial for potential buyers to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified BMW mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.