2013 BMW M135i

The 2013 BMW M135i is a rear-wheel-drive performance hatchback known for its blend of practicality and driving fun. Its primary engine option is the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 N55 engine, producing 315 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission and an 8-speed automatic transmission are available. Owners appreciate the M135i for its powerful engine, agile handling, and relatively compact size. Common dislikes often revolve around a sometimes firm ride, the cost of maintenance, and certain interior materials.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long cranking times, stalling, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slips during acceleration, especially in higher gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch kit (clutch disc, pressure plate, throw-out bearing).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic sleeve (where the electrical connector enters the transmission).
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and refill the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Fluid and filter change.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Cracked Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering or wander.
  • Solution: Replace the front lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps. Leaking shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. Could be a faulty module, aftermarket electronics, or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Diagnosis) + Repair Cost
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles may become sticky or difficult to operate, particularly in hot weather. This can be due to lubrication issues or failure of the internal mechanism.
  • Solution: Lubricating the handle mechanism. If this fails, the handle assembly will need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2013 BMW M135i is a generally reliable performance vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The most concerning issues relate to the N55 engine (oil leaks, VANOS solenoids, HPFP failure) and the ZF 8HP transmission (mechatronic sleeve leaks), as these can be expensive to repair. Suspension issues like worn control arm bushings and shock absorbers are relatively common in vehicles of this age and mileage. Early diagnosis and repair are recommended to prevent further damage and maintain the M135i’s performance.