2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5
Introduction
The 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is a gasoline-electric hybrid luxury sedan that combines a N55B30A 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine with an 8-speed ZF 8HP45Z automatic transmission and an integrated electric motor. The hybrid system produces a combined output of 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.7 seconds. Owners appreciate the ActiveHybrid 5’s comfortable interior, refined handling, and impressive fuel economy for its size. However, some have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle.
Engine
- N55B30A Engine
Intake Valve Carbon Buildup Description/Symptoms: Over time, carbon deposits can accumulate on the intake valves, leading to reduced engine power, rough idling, and increased emissions. Solution: Cleaning or replacing the intake valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 14V374000
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing a rattling noise from the engine, reduced power, and potential engine damage. Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 15V076000
Transmission
- ZF 8HP45Z Transmission
Mechatronic Sleeve Wear Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can wear prematurely, leading to transmission shuddering, delayed gear changes, or slipping. Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Auxiliary Battery Failure Description/Symptoms: The auxiliary battery, which powers the vehicle’s electrical systems, can fail prematurely, resulting in electrical problems, reduced battery life, and potential starting issues. Solution: Replacing the auxiliary battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Sensor Malfunction Description/Symptoms: The door handle sensor can malfunction, leading to difficulty unlocking or locking the doors, or triggering the “key not detected” warning. Solution: Replacing the door handle sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Interior
- iDrive System Intermittent Crash Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience intermittent crashes, resulting in a loss of functionality, such as GPS navigation, climate control, and audio. Solution: Updating the software or replacing the iDrive control unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 generally receives positive reviews for its performance, interior comfort, and fuel efficiency. However, there have been some reported issues with the engine’s intake valve carbon buildup and timing chain tensioner, the transmission’s mechatronic sleeve, and various electrical and interior components. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should research these issues carefully before purchasing a used 2013 ActiveHybrid 5.