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2014 BMW 535i GT

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2014 BMW 535i GT (Gran Turismo) is a luxury hatchback known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. It offered a blend of practicality and luxury, appealing to buyers who wanted more versatility than a traditional sedan. The available engine options included a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 (N55) and a 4.4L turbocharged V8. The 535i GT specifically, comes with the 3.0L inline-6, producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the car’s comfortable seating, ample cargo space, and smooth ride. Some common complaints include the car’s unusual styling, its large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and potential for high repair costs typical of BMW vehicles.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, leading to a burning oil smell, low oil level, and potential for oil to drip onto other engine components.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell, low oil level, and potential for oil to drip onto exhaust components.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased power, poor fuel economy, and possible check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per solenoid
    • Recalls: None Found
  • High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Long cranking times, rough idling, decreased power, and possible check engine light. The N55 engine’s HPFP can be prone to premature failure.
    • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP Automatic Transmission

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic unit sleeve (where the wiring harness connects to the transmission), leading to shifting problems and low transmission fluid.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and fluid service
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, and general erratic transmission behavior.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or complete transmission overhaul.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on repair)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure (Rear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting low or unevenly, failure of the air compressor, warning lights on the dashboard related to suspension.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air springs/bags, air compressor, or ride height sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per air spring/compressor
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be attributed to various electrical components not shutting down properly or a faulty battery.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain by performing a parasitic draw test. Replace faulty components and the battery if needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source and components
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Comfort Access System
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent issues with unlocking or locking the car using the comfort access system, failure to start the vehicle without inserting the key, and error messages in the iDrive system.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty door handle sensors or the comfort access control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door handle/module
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Panoramic Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise during operation, or leaks water.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or general unresponsiveness of the iDrive infotainment system.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation Screen Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Screen going blank, flickering, or displaying distorted images.
    • Solution: Screen replacement or repair of the video module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 BMW 535i GT presents a mix of luxury and practicality, but like many European cars, it can be prone to certain reliability issues. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, and electrical malfunctions are common concerns. The air suspension system is also a known weak point. The cost of repairs can be substantial, particularly for engine and transmission work, making careful inspection and maintenance essential for prospective buyers.

BMW, 535i GT
BMW 535i GT 2014
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