2015 BMW 335i xDrive
The 2015 BMW 335i xDrive is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its blend of performance and practicality. It’s powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine (N55) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 3 Series included a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 in the 320i and 328i models, and a diesel 2.0-liter inline-4 in the 328d. Transmission options for the 335i xDrive included a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. People generally praise the 335i xDrive for its powerful engine, sporty handling, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include relatively high maintenance costs, electrical quirks, and a firm ride, especially on models with the sport suspension.
Engine
N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, visible as oil drips or residue on the engine and surrounding components. Can cause a burning smell.
- 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, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell. Visible oil residue around the valve cover.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket. Sometimes, the valve cover itself needs replacement if warped.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, and potential engine stalling. Check engine light illumination.
- Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased engine performance, and potential check engine light.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the VANOS solenoids.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF 8HP45 8-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating.
- Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit (valve body). Fluid change.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the transmission pan gasket or seals.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seals, along with a transmission fluid service.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Cracked/Broken Coil Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, uneven ride height, and potentially compromised handling.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected coil spring(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per pair
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Control Arm Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises when going over bumps, vague steering feel, and potential tire wear issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per pair
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks that fail to lock or unlock properly, requiring multiple attempts or manual operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or complete failure of the iDrive infotainment system.
- Solution: Software update. Replacement of the iDrive control unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after the car has been sitting for a short period.
- Solution: Diagnosing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly installed aftermarket accessories). Replacement of the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Water Leaks into Tail Lights
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the tail light housings.
- Solution: Sealing or replacement of the tail light housings or gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close smoothly, unusual noises during operation, or water leaks.
- Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks and mechanism. Replacement of the sunroof motor or other components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 BMW 335i xDrive, while offering a sporty driving experience and luxurious features, is prone to several issues. Engine oil leaks from gaskets are common and can be moderately expensive to address. Electrical issues, particularly with the iDrive system and door lock actuators, are also frequently reported. Suspension components, like coil springs and control arm bushings, can wear out, impacting ride quality and handling. Interior issues such as cracked dashboards can detract from the vehicle’s appeal. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly to repair, potentially making long-term ownership expensive.