2014 BMW 335i
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2014 BMW 335i, formatted as requested, aiming for accuracy and detail.
The 2014 BMW 335i is a popular choice for its blend of performance and luxury. It’s equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N55) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available were the 320i’s 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and the 328d’s 2.0-liter turbo diesel. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 335i’s handling, powerful engine, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance, potential for electrical gremlins, and the sometimes-firm ride.
Engine
N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell. Low oil level warning may illuminate.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover, often dripping down the side of the engine. Burning smell, smoke from the engine bay, and low oil level warnings are common.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. It’s often recommended to replace the valve cover itself, especially if it’s plastic, as it can warp over time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, engine malfunction warning. The electric water pump can fail prematurely.
- Solution: Replace the electric water pump and thermostat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased performance, engine malfunction warning.
- Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 8HP45 8-Speed Automatic
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak near the transmission pan, rough shifting, transmission malfunction warning.
- Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve (the electrical connector sleeve). It’s often recommended to change the transmission fluid and filter at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly when cold. Can sometimes be improved with a transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset, but may indicate internal wear over time.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset. If the problem persists, more extensive repairs or a transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush and reset $300 - $500. Transmission replacement $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Cracked Control Arm Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the control arms or just the bushings if possible.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm.
- Recalls: None Found
- Damper (Shock) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
- Solution: Replace the dampers (shocks).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+ depending on brand and if replacing all four.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. This can be caused by a faulty module not going to sleep, or a failing battery.
- Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain. Replace the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for battery replacement. Diagnosis of a parasitic drain can vary greatly in price.
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Window Regulator
- Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, clicking sounds in the door, window falling into the door.
- Solution: Replace the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Adhesive Failure (Comfort Access)
- Description/Symptoms: The adhesive holding the exterior door handle trim piece fails, causing it to become loose or detach, particularly on cars with Comfort Access (keyless entry).
- Solution: Re-glue the trim piece, or replace the entire door handle assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Regluing $50 - $200. Replacing the handle $300-$600
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Center Console Trim Peeling
- Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch coating on the center console trim pieces peels and becomes sticky.
- Solution: Replace the trim pieces, or refinish the existing ones.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ depending on which piece and the solution.
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive Screen Delamination/Bubbling
- Description/Symptoms: The anti-glare coating on the iDrive screen delaminates and bubbles, obscuring the display.
- Solution: Replace the iDrive screen, or remove the coating.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Removing the coating $0 (DIY), Replacing the screen $500-$1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2014 BMW 335i offers a rewarding driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of common issues. Engine oil leaks, cooling system problems, and electrical gremlins are relatively common and can lead to expensive repairs. Suspension components may also require attention due to wear and tear. Addressing these issues proactively can help ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience. While some issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be costly, potentially requiring significant investment. The severity varies, but budgeting for potential repairs is a must for prospective buyers.