2014 BMW 335i GT xDrive

The 2014 BMW 335i GT xDrive is a hatchback/liftback version of the popular 3 Series sedan, offering more cargo space and rear legroom. It features a turbocharged inline-6 engine as the primary powerplant for the 335i variant, while the 328i comes with a turbocharged inline-4. The 335i engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an 8-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the car’s practicality, comfortable ride, and responsive engine. Common complaints include reliability issues, expensive repairs, and some find the styling polarizing.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, visible oil drips, burning oil smell. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, visible oil around the valve cover, burning oil smell. Similar to the oil filter housing gasket leak, can lead to low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced engine power, stalling, check engine light with VANOS-related codes.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, error messages on the dashboard, inability to shift into certain gears. This is related to the valve body and solenoids inside the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the mechatronic unit. In some cases, replacement of the valve body can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Slipping transmission and loss of power.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive M Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, error messages related to the suspension, stiff or bouncy ride, failure of dampers.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty dampers or control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, frequent jump starts needed. Caused by parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain, often involving faulty modules or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or rebooting of the iDrive system. Navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit (if necessary).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Xenon Headlight Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights not working, flickering headlights, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Xenon bulb, ballast, or headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles failing to open the door, requiring excessive force, or not registering the key.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle mechanism or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to go up or down, making grinding noises, or falling into the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $600+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 BMW 335i GT xDrive offers a compelling combination of performance and practicality, but it’s not without its potential issues. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, and electrical gremlins are among the most common concerns. Repair costs can be significant, especially for transmission or suspension work. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic is highly recommended.