BMW 535i years to avoid and best years
Newer BMW 535i years have fewer owner complaints per year than the older ones. 2013 has the most complaints per year, at 4 (38 complaints). 2012 through 2014 are in that same range. From 2015 on, complaints per year fall. Among years old enough to compare, the fewest complaints per year are 2015 at 0 (from 23 complaints), 2014 at 3 (from 30 complaints), and 2012 at 3 (from 54 complaints). On the 2013 BMW 535i, 5 of 38 complaints name Engine.
Data as of .
BMW 535i reliability by year
Each year is complaints filed in that year’s first 3 years on the road, divided by however many of those years have passed. A model year younger than 3 years is too early to compare, so it is left out of the years named as having the fewest or the most complaints. Recalls are a separate count. The numbers are for the US-market BMW 535i. How we count.
By model year
| Year | Per year on the road | Complaints | Recalls | Most-filed complaint | Avg. combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 0 | 0 | 1 | — | 21.5 |
| 2016 | 0 | 0 | 2 | — | 22.3 |
| 2015 → Fewest | 0 | 23 | 0 | Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system | 22.5 |
| 2014 → Fewest | 3 | 30 | 2 | Engine | 22.4 |
| 2013 → Most | 4 | 38 | 1 | Engine | 23.2 |
| 2012 → Fewest | 3 | 54 | 1 | Fuel and propulsion system | 22.6 |
Years with a → link have a full model-year page.
What owners file about
Generations
- Body styles
- Sedan, Gran Turismo
- Oil
- BMW 0W-30 (N55; verify under-hood label / LL-01 FE) · 6.9 qt capacity
- Tire size
- 245/45R18, 245/40R19 (front); staggered packages may use 275/35R19 rear front / 245/45R18, 245/40R19, 275/35R19 (trim/package dependent) rear
Known issues for this generation
Recall 15V-188 covers certain 2013 535i and 535i xDrive vehicles (and other 5 Series models): the rear reflex reflectors may not meet reflectivity requirements. Recall 24V-527 covers certain 2014 5 Series sedans and Gran Turismo models among other BMWs for a driver's frontal air-bag inflator module concern. Recall 16V-914 covers certain 2017 535i and 535i xDrive vehicles (and other BMW models) where the front passenger air bag may not deploy as intended in a crash. Dealers update related software or replace affected components per the campaign remedy.
Frequently asked questions
Which BMW 535i years have fewer owner complaints?
Among years old enough to compare, the fewest complaints per year are 2015 at 0 (from 23 complaints), 2014 at 3 (from 30 complaints), and 2012 at 3 (from 54 complaints).
Which BMW 535i year has the most owner complaints?
2013 has the most complaints per year, at 4 (38 complaints). 2012 through 2014 are in that same range. On the 2013 BMW 535i, 5 of 38 complaints name Engine.
How do BMW 535i owner complaints compare by year?
Newer BMW 535i years have fewer owner complaints per year than the older ones. From 2015 on, complaints per year fall.
What oil does a BMW 535i (F10) take?
BMW 0W-30 (N55) is listed here; verify the under-hood label and LL-01 FE approval for your production date.
What does recall 24V-527 cover involving the 535i era?
Certain 2014 5 Series sedans and Gran Turismo models among other BMWs for a driver’s frontal air-bag inflator concern — confirm open campaigns by VIN.
What years does the F10 535i cover on this site?
2012-2017.