The 2014 BMW 535xi is a popular luxury sedan known for its performance and handling. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. This article will delve into the most frequently reported issues with the 2014 535xi, drawing on data from leading automotive resources like RepairPal, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), and online forums.
Reliability and Common Issues
The 2014 BMW 535xi has a below-average reliability rating according to RepairPal. It scores 2.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 23rd out of 30 luxury full-size cars1. The average annual repair cost is estimated to be $1,123, indicating potentially high ownership costs1. Furthermore, the 535xi has a higher than average frequency and severity of repairs compared to other luxury full-size cars, suggesting a greater likelihood of encountering problems1. In comparison, the non-xDrive 535i model has a slightly better rating of 2.5 out of 5.0 and ranks 18th out of 30 for luxury full-size cars2. Its average annual repair cost is $9772. KBB user reviews give the 2014 5 Series an overall reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5.0, with 83% of owners recommending the vehicle3.
It’s important to note that even within the BMW brand, the 2014 535xi has some concerning common problems. These include issues with airbags not deploying as needed, structural weakness in the B-pillars, and potential detachment of the interior rear cargo rail in a crash1. These issues highlight potential safety concerns that should be taken seriously.
For the non-xDrive 535i, the most commonly reported problem is a “Check Engine Light with Code P30FF and Rattle from Engine.” 2 This issue is often related to wastegate problems in the turbocharged engine4.
KBB user reviews provide a mixed bag, with some owners praising the car’s quality and comfort while others report issues with rattles and other problems3. One user specifically mentioned problems with the OEM run-flat tires, citing high cost, uncomfortable ride, poor wear, and difficulty replacing them in case of a puncture.
Potential Problem Areas
Based on owner complaints and expert analysis, here are some potential problem areas to watch out for in the 2014 535xi, grouped by system:
- Engine:
- Wastegate Issues: Wastegate problems in the turbocharged engine can lead to performance problems and engine rattles4.
- Timing Chain: Timing chain problems can cause grinding noises from the engine5.
- Oil Pan Leaks: Oil pan leaks may occur, especially in AWD models6.
- Charge Pipe: The charge pipe on the N55 engine is made of plastic, making it more susceptible to failure than a metal charge pipe. This can lead to boost leaks and reduced engine performance7.
- Suspension:
- Front Thrust Rod Bushings: Front thrust rod bushings may fail, leading to front suspension looseness84.
- Front Tension Strut Bushings: Front tension strut bushings may fail, leading to front suspension looseness84.
- Front Lower Control Arms: Front lower control arms may require premature replacement due to wear and tear, potentially causing noise or instability while driving7.
- Steering:
- Power Steering: Air entering the power steering system can cause unusual noises and steering problems. This is often linked to a faulty power steering pump5.
- Steering Wheel Servo Tilting Motor: The servo motor that adjusts the steering wheel tilt may develop a squealing sound or stop working altogether7.
- Electrical:
- Fuel Pump Control Unit: The fuel pump control unit can fail, causing starting problems5.
- Electronic Accessories: Various electronic accessories, such as power windows, may malfunction over time7.
- Other:
- Water Leaks: Water leaks in the front passenger-side footwell have been reported5.
- Drive Axle: Drive axle replacement seems to be a recurring issue6.
- Air Conditioning: Some owners have reported that the air conditioning system may not be adequate for the size of the cabin, especially in hot weather7.
Recalls and Service Bulletins
The 2014 BMW 535xi has been subject to several recalls. It’s crucial to be aware of these recalls and ensure that any purchased vehicle has had the necessary repairs completed. Here are some of the most significant ones:
- EGR Cooler Leak: This recall affects various BMW models with diesel engines, including the 535d and 535d xDrive. A leak in the EGR cooler could mix coolant with diesel engine soot, potentially leading to smoldering particles and melting the intake manifold, which increases the risk of a fire9.
- Passenger Airbag Inflator: This recall affects a wide range of BMW models, including the 535xi. The passenger-side frontal airbag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation, potentially spreading sharp metal fragments that could cause serious injury or death to the passenger or other occupants109.
- Rear Reflectors: This recall specifically affects the 2013-2014 535i xDrive. The rear reflectors may not meet reflectivity requirements, making the vehicle less visible to others at night and increasing the risk of a crash11.
- Fuel Pump: This recall affects certain BMW models with diesel engines, including the 535d and 535d xDrive. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail, potentially causing the engine to stall while driving and increasing the risk of a crash9.
In addition to the above, there are other recalls that may affect the 2014 BMW 535xi, including:
- Airbags: Potential issues with airbags not deploying as needed11.
- B-Pillars: Concerns about the structural strength of the B-pillars11.
- Rear Cargo Rail: Potential detachment of the interior rear cargo rail in a crash11.
- Positive Battery Connection: Potential overheating of the positive battery connection in the trunk8.
It’s essential to check with a BMW dealer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to determine if a specific 535xi is affected by any outstanding recalls.
In addition to recalls, there are service bulletins related to the 2014 535xi. One notable bulletin extends the warranty for the front passenger airbag seat occupancy sensor mat to 15 years with no mileage limitation12. This addresses potential issues with the sensor mat that could affect airbag deployment.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Maintaining a BMW can be expensive, and the 2014 535xi is no exception13. BMWs often require specialized parts and technology, which can drive up maintenance and repair costs13. Here’s a breakdown of some common repair costs:
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
| Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement | $360 – $398 |
| Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement | $509 – $538 |
| Radiator Replacement | $1,971 – $2,159 |
| Water Pump Replacement | $1,091 – $1,172 |
| Windshield Wiper Arm Replacement | $159 – $167 |
| Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis | $143 – $180 |
| Window Switch Replacement | $357 – $393 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Pressure Switch Replacement | $220 – $234 |
| Heater Hose Replacement | $427 – $487 |
| Active Suspension System Control Module Replacement | $1,117 – $1,126 |
In addition to these specific repairs, it’s important to be aware of the overall maintenance costs. A major service can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more13. Here’s an overview of the potential annual maintenance costs over the first 5 years of ownership:
| Year | Annual Costs |
| 1 | $563 |
| 2 | $664 |
| 3 | $823 |
| 4 | $1,079 |
| 5 | $1,290 |
Don’t forget about tire replacements, which can be a significant recurring expense. The 535xi often uses high-performance tires that can cost anywhere from $215 to $400 per tire, resulting in a total cost of $860 to over $1,600 for a set of four13.
Tips for Potential Buyers
If you’re considering buying a 2014 BMW 535xi, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Thoroughly research the vehicle’s history: Obtain a vehicle history report to check for any accidents, title issues, and service records. This will give you a better understanding of the car’s past and any potential red flags.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the car to identify any potential problems. Pay close attention to the engine, suspension, and steering components, as these are some of the areas where issues have been reported7.
- Check for recalls and service bulletins: Ensure that all outstanding recalls have been addressed and that the vehicle is up-to-date on service bulletins. This is crucial for safety and to avoid potential problems down the road.
- Factor in maintenance costs: Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance and repair costs compared to other vehicles. BMWs, in general, and the 535xi, in particular, have higher maintenance costs than average due to specialized parts and technology13.
- Consider an extended warranty: An extended warranty can provide peace of mind and help cover unexpected repair expenses, especially given the potential for costly repairs on this vehicle.
- Review Maintenance Records: Carefully check maintenance records, especially if the car has around 60,000 miles or more. This will help you assess how well the previous owner maintained the vehicle and identify any potential future issues7.
Research Steps Conducted
To gather information for this article, a comprehensive research process was undertaken. This involved consulting various sources, including:
- Reliability Reports: Reputable sources like RepairPal and Kelley Blue Book were consulted to assess the overall reliability and common problems of the 2014 BMW 535xi123.
- Online Forums and Discussions: Online forums and communities dedicated to BMW owners, such as Reddit and bimmerpost forums, were examined to gather insights from actual owners and enthusiasts regarding their experiences with the 2014 535xi156716.
- Automotive Expert Articles: Articles and blog posts from automotive experts were reviewed to gain further understanding of known issues and potential problem areas with the 2014 535xi85.
- Recall and Service Bulletin Databases: Official sources like the NHTSA website and manufacturer databases were used to identify any recalls or service bulletins issued for the 2014 535xi171812.
- Repair Cost Estimates: Resources like RepairPal and online repair cost databases were used to gather information on the cost of commonly reported repairs for the 2014 535xi213.
By consulting these diverse sources, a comprehensive picture of the 2014 BMW 535xi’s common problems and associated costs was compiled.
Conclusion
While the 2014 BMW 535xi can be a desirable luxury sedan, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability and potential for costly repairs. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and careful consideration of maintenance costs are crucial for a satisfying ownership experience. By being informed about the common problems, potential issues, and associated costs, buyers can make an informed decision and take the necessary steps to mitigate risks and ensure a positive ownership experience.