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2015 BMW 335i

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2015 BMW 335i is a popular sport sedan known for its blend of performance and luxury. The 335i is powered by the 3.0L N55 turbocharged inline-6 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 3 Series include the 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (320i and 328i) and the diesel 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (328d). The available transmissions were an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual. Owners often praise the 335i for its responsive handling, powerful engine, and upscale interior. Common complaints include higher than average maintenance costs, some electrical gremlins, and occasional issues with the cooling system.

Engine

3.0L N55 Turbocharged Inline-6

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold and causing a burning smell. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold and causing a burning smell. Can also lead to oil consumption and misfires.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket and potentially the valve cover itself if warped.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Charge Pipe Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic charge pipe connecting the turbocharger to the throttle body can crack or break, leading to a significant loss of power, boost, and potential limp mode.
    • Solution: Replacement of the charge pipe with an aftermarket aluminum or reinforced plastic version.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks (Water Pump/Thermostat Housing)
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are common, often stemming from the water pump or thermostat housing. Overheating can occur if the coolant level drops too low.
    • Solution: Replacement of the water pump, thermostat housing, and potentially coolant hoses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the mechatronic sleeve, which is the electrical connector where the wiring harness enters the transmission.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and potentially a transmission fluid flush.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Can also lead to vague steering and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll, and diminished handling.
    • Solution: Replacement of the struts or shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Faulty Door Lock Actuators
    • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly, requiring manual operation.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of inactivity. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw, potentially including replacement of the faulty module or accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Cracked or Broken Side Mirror Housings
    • Description/Symptoms: Side mirror housing broken from impact
    • Solution: Replacement of side mirror housing
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400 per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • iDrive Controller Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: iDrive controller (the knob) not working, becoming unresponsive, or exhibiting erratic behavior.
    • Solution: Replacement of the iDrive controller.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 BMW 335i, while enjoyable to drive, is not without its common issues. Engine oil leaks, cooling system problems, and suspension wear are prevalent. Transmission issues can be costly if the valve body requires replacement. Electrical gremlins, such as door lock actuator and battery drain problems, can also occur. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potentially higher maintenance costs compared to some other vehicles in its class. The severity and cost of these issues range from relatively minor to potentially significant, requiring careful inspection and budgeting for repairs.

BMW, 335i
BMW 335i 2015
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