Post
Research the Car Logo

2017 BMW 535i GT xDrive

The 2017 BMW 535i GT xDrive is a luxury hatchback known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. It boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for both city and highway driving. Other engine options available for the 2017 5 Series GT include a 4.4-liter V8 engine. A common praise for this car is its upscale interior and its versatility due to the hatchback configuration. Common criticisms involve its unusual exterior styling and higher price compared to traditional sedans.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (N55)

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing, noticeable oil smell, low oil level warning light.
    • Solution: Replace 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, burning oil smell, visible oil on the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting, delayed engagement when shifting between gears, particularly noticeable between 2nd and 3rd gear.
    • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM), fluid change, or valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity and repair
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure (Rear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, “Self-leveling suspension inactive” warning, compressor noise, vehicle leaning to one side.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor and potentially the air springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting after sitting for a short period, error messages related to low voltage, electrical malfunctions.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, replace the battery. Possible culprits include the comfort access system, iDrive system, or faulty control modules.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (diagnosis and repair costs can vary widely)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, rebooting, display issues, loss of functionality.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive controller, or replacement of the entire iDrive unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Tailgate Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power tailgate not opening or closing correctly, unusual noises during operation, error messages.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the tailgate struts, motor, or latch mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises, leaks, or binding.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW 535i GT xDrive can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Oil leaks from the engine and air suspension problems in the rear are among the most common, with repairs costing several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Electrical issues, especially related to the iDrive system, can also be problematic and costly to diagnose and fix. While not all vehicles will experience these issues, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended. The severity of these potential issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs, so being informed is key.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.