2016 BMW 535i

The 2016 BMW 535i is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The 535i is equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N55B30) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2016 5 Series include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (528i), a hybrid version combining the 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 with an electric motor (530e), and a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 (550i). All engine options came with the 8-speed automatic transmission. People often praise the 535i for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and some electronic gremlins.

Engine

N55B30 (3.0L Turbo Inline-6)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal. In some cases, resealing the oil pan is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and if other parts need to be removed
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can experience failures. Symptoms include rough idling, loss of power, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS solenoids or, in more severe cases, repair or replace the VANOS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the extent of the repairs
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from the water pump, thermostat housing, radiator hoses, and the expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty component causing the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the part that needs to be replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP45 (8-Speed Automatic)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough or jerky shifting, especially between lower gears. Some owners report hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success with transmission fluid changes and adaptations resets. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission overhaul may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid change) - $4000+ (overhaul)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failures within the mechatronic unit (the transmission’s control unit) can cause a range of shifting problems, including delayed engagement, harsh shifts, and complete loss of gear selection.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit can often resolve these issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause vibrations at highway speeds, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Suspension Malfunctions (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with adaptive dampers (Dynamic Damper Control), they can sometimes fail, resulting in a harsh or uneven ride. Warning lights may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various reasons, including faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or parasitic draw. Symptoms include a dead battery, slow starting, and electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Identifying and resolving the source of the battery drain. This may involve diagnostic testing and module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, and software malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, module resets, or, in some cases, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1200+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors can fail, including those related to the engine, transmission, and safety systems (e.g., parking sensors, oxygen sensors). Symptoms depend on the affected system.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on location and type.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including getting stuck, failing to open or close smoothly, or rattling noises.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 BMW 535i is a desirable car known for performance, comfort, and advanced features, it’s also known for more frequent repair needs. The most prevalent issues are related to oil leaks from the engine, transmission problems, and electrical system faults. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing gaskets to more costly overhauls or module replacements. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with this model.