2016 BMW 535i GT

The 2016 BMW 535i GT, part of the F07 generation, is a luxury Gran Turismo offering a blend of sedan comfort, wagon practicality, and coupe styling. The model year came with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N55) producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 5 Series GT in other markets might have included a diesel engine. The 2016 535i GT comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the spacious rear seating, panoramic sunroof, and comfortable ride. Some common complaints include the unusual styling, higher price point compared to traditional sedans, and potential for expensive repairs common with BMWs.

Engine

N55 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine, often dripping onto exhaust components, causing a burning smell. Visible oil residue around the oil filter housing.
  • 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 around the valve cover, leading to oil consumption and potential burning smell. Visible oil residue on the engine block.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Water Pump/Thermostat)
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant warning light illuminated, visible coolant leaks near the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and/or thermostat. Often recommended to replace both together as they are common failure points.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid/filter) - $2000+ (valve body/rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sagging, uneven ride height, “Self-Leveling Suspension Inactive” warning message.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs (airbags) or air compressor. Check for leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per air spring, $500 - $1000 for compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight or within a short period of time, difficulty starting, and error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain (often caused by a faulty module). Replacement of the faulty module or electrical component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (diagnosis) - $500+ (component replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or complete failure of the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software) - $1000+ (control unit)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard and Door Panel Creaks/Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying creaking or rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening of fasteners, adding felt or foam padding to contact points.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW 535i GT offers a unique blend of luxury and practicality, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine-related oil leaks and coolant leaks, as well as air suspension problems, can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical issues such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions are also common. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite costly to address. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are essential when considering the purchase of a 2016 535i GT. The severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially major component failures.