2014 BMW 535d
The 2014 BMW 535d is a diesel-powered luxury sedan known for its impressive fuel economy and strong torque. It was part of the F10 5-Series generation. Other engine options available for the 2014 5-Series included various gasoline engines, such as the 528i (2.0L Turbo I4), 535i (3.0L Turbo I6), 550i (4.4L Turbo V8), and the ActiveHybrid 5 (hybrid powertrain). The 535d featured a 3.0-liter inline-6 diesel engine producing around 255 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. All engine options were typically paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the 535d for its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include potential maintenance costs associated with a European luxury vehicle, and some find the electronic features overly complex.
Engine
3.0L Inline-6 Diesel (N57D30T0)
- EGR Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and a sweet smell indicating a coolant leak. The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler can develop cracks and leak coolant. This is a common issue with diesel engines.
- Solution: Replace the EGR cooler with an updated version.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the DPF warning light illuminating on the dashboard. The DPF can become clogged with soot, especially if the car is primarily used for short trips.
- Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF (either through a scan tool or a long highway drive), or replacement of the DPF if regeneration is not successful.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (regeneration) - $2000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP45)
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, or complete loss of drive. The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can experience electrical or mechanical failures.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the mechatronic unit. In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue, but this is less common for hardware failures.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly during acceleration or uphill driving. The torque converter can develop internal damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If equipped with Adaptive Drive/Air Suspension)
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits low on one or more corners, the air suspension warning light is illuminated, and the compressor may run continuously or not at all. The air suspension compressor can fail due to wear and tear or leaks in the air springs.
- Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Also, inspect and repair any leaks in the air springs or air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering or instability at higher speeds. The rubber bushings in the control arms can wear out, leading to excessive play.
- Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings, or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per arm, depending on whether just the bushings or the entire arm is replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently dies, especially if the car sits for extended periods. There could be a parasitic drain caused by a faulty module or accessory that is not shutting down properly.
- Solution: Perform a parasitic drain test to identify the source of the drain. Repair or replace the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive screen freezes, reboots intermittently, or displays error messages. The iDrive system’s central processing unit or other components can fail.
- Solution: Attempt a software update. If that fails, replacement of the iDrive module may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $1500+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The door does not lock or unlock with the key fob or interior switch. The door lock actuator has failed.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or leaking. The sunroof mechanism may be damaged or misaligned.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism, or realignment of the sunroof panel.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heater does not work, or only heats intermittently. The heating element in the seat may be damaged.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat heating element.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking (Specific to some climates)
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight. This is a common issue in regions with high temperatures and UV exposure.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive), or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (cover) - $2000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 BMW 535d offers a compelling combination of performance and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues associated with this model. The most significant concerns revolve around the diesel engine’s EGR cooler and DPF, as well as potential transmission problems with the ZF 8HP45. Electrical issues like battery drains and iDrive malfunctions are also relatively common. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, such as mechatronic unit or DPF replacement, can be quite costly. Due to the age of the vehicle, preventative maintenance is crucial to keep these issues at bay.