2016 BMW 535d
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2016 BMW 535d, formatted as requested.
The 2016 BMW 5 Series (F10 generation) is a popular luxury sedan praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The 535d model specifically features a 3.0-liter inline-6 diesel engine producing 255 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2016 5 Series include the 528i (2.0L turbo-4), 535i (3.0L turbo inline-6), 550i (4.4L turbo V8), and ActiveHybrid 5 (turbo inline-6 with electric motor). Owners appreciate the 535d’s exceptional fuel economy for its class, strong low-end torque, and overall refined driving experience. Common dislikes include the higher maintenance costs associated with BMWs, potential for electronic gremlins, and the somewhat firm ride quality (depending on suspension configuration).
Engine
3.0L Inline-6 Diesel (N57D30)
- EGR Cooler Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, “Check Engine” light. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler can develop leaks, causing coolant to enter the exhaust system.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler. Some owners opt for aftermarket options or deleting the EGR system (check local regulations).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, “DPF” warning light, frequent regeneration cycles. The DPF can become clogged, especially with short trips and infrequent highway driving.
- Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (can be done by a BMW specialist), DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (forced regen) - $2500+ (DPF replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Swirl Flap Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, “Check Engine” light. The swirl flaps are designed to improve combustion efficiency at low engine speeds. However, they can break and be ingested into the engine.
- Solution: Swirl flap removal/deletion and replacement with blanking plates.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP45)
- Mechatronic Unit Failure/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, “Transmission Malfunction” warning. The mechatronic unit controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions.
- Solution: Mechatronic unit replacement or rebuild. Replacing the transmission fluid and filter regularly may help prevent this issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly under light acceleration, vibrations. The torque converter may develop internal wear.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement. In some cases, a complete transmission replacement may be recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If equipped with optional air suspension)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, “Self-leveling Suspension Inactive” warning, loud compressor noise.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the car. This can be caused by various factors, including a faulty alternator, parasitic drain from electronic modules, or an aging battery.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain (e.g., replacing a faulty module, fixing wiring issues, or replacing the battery).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- iDrive System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, random reboots, display issues.
- Solution: Software update, iDrive control unit replacement (if the problem is hardware-related).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Software Update) $500-$2000+ (Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Parking Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty or non-working parking sensors. Typically you will see an error on the dashboard if this is happening.
- Solution: Replacing a faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ Per Sensor (depending on sensor)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Issues (Comfort Access)
- Description/Symptoms: Door handle malfunctions, failure to unlock or lock the car using the comfort access feature. The door handle sensors can fail.
- Solution: Door handle replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per handle
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, failure to open or close smoothly, excessive noise, or leaks.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components (motor, tracks, seals).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation Screen Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Screen flicker, dimming, or complete failure.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation screen.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 BMW 535d offers a compelling package of performance and fuel efficiency, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. EGR cooler failure and DPF issues are common on the diesel engine and can be expensive to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the mechatronic unit and torque converter, are also a concern. Electrical gremlins and suspension issues can add to the ownership costs. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite costly, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic essential. Regular maintenance, especially fluid changes, can help mitigate some of these risks.