2011 BMW 535i Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
262
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
TIRES
52 complaints
I PURCHASED A 2011 BMW 535I XDRIVE VEHICLE WITH GOODYEAR EAGLE LS RUNFLATS 245/40 R19. THE CAR HAS ONLY 19,000 MILES AND FROM THE DAY THAT I PURCHASED IT (IN FEB 2011), I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE FRONT TIRES 8 TIMES AND RECENTLY THE REAR TIRES 2 TIMES. A TOTAL OF 10 TIRE REPLACEMENTS. SOME REPLACEMENTS WERE DUE TO BUBBLES ON SIDEWALLS. THE OTHERS WERE DUE WHAT APPEARED TO BE CUTS ON THE INSIDE/OUTSIDE SIDEWALLS. I HAVE SPOKEN TO MANY BMW OWNERS OF SIMILAR VEHICLE AND EVERYONE IS RUNNING INTO THE SAME PROBLEM. GOODYEAR INITIALLY WAS REPLACING MY TIRES AT NO CHARGE BECASUE THEY TIRE DAMAGE ALWAYS WAS WITHIN TIRE WARRANTY WINDOW UNTIL LAST YEAR WHEN THEY CHANGED THEIR ROAD HAZZARD WARRANTY POLICY AND NO LONGER COVER THE EXPENSE. THESE ARE VERY EXPENSIVE TIRES. SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE ABOUT THESE TIRES..... *TR
Jan 20, 2014
THREE GOODYEAR EXCELLENCE 245/40R19XL RUN-FLAT TIRES HAVE FAILED WITH SIDEWALL BUBBLES ON MY 2011 BMW 535I. THE FIRST WAS ON 8-31-11 AT 7,317 MILES. THE SECOND ON 1-15-13 AT 20,158 MILES AND THE MOST RECENT ON 7-16-13 AT 23,433 MILES. THE FACTORY ORIGINAL RIGHT-FRONT TIRE AND ITS REPLACEMENT TIRE BOTH FAILED. THE THIRD FAILURE (ON 7-16-13) WAS ON THE LEFT FRONT. THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR AND IT IS DRIVEN VERY CONSERVATIVELY. NO WRECKS, NO HITTING CURBS, ETC. NEVER IN MY LIFE HAVE I HAD THIS TYPE OF TIRE FAILURE. THESE RUN-FLAT TIRES ARE TRULY DEFECTIVE. IN EACH CASE, I HAD TO PAY FOR A NEW REPLACEMENT TIRE. OLD TIRES ARE NOT AVAILABLE UNLESS I COULD RECLAIM THE LATEST TIRE AT MY LOCAL TIRE SHOP BEFORE THEY DISCARDED IT. COMPLAINED TO GOODYEAR THE LAST TIME AND THEY AGREED TO PAY PART OF THE COST OF THE REPLACEMENT TIRE. THESE NEED TO BE TAKEN OFF THE ROAD BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. *TR
Jul 18, 2013
I HAVE A 2011 BMW 535I IS PURCHASE NOV 2010 FROM BMW MILITARY SALES, THREE WEEKS AFTER RECEIVING CAR, MY RIGHT FRONT TIRE FORM A BUBBLE AND WAS REPLACED BY BMW OF LANDSTUHL, I SHIPPED THE CAR TO THE US MAY 2011. JUNE 2011 MY RIGHT FRONT TIRE FORM A BUBBLE; TOOK CAR TO DEALER AND WAS TOLD TIRE WAS NOT COVER IN WARRANTY; BOTH NEW TIRE, AUG 2011 FRONT LEFT TIRE FORM BLISTER; TOOK BACK TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD I NEED TO CONTACT GOODYEAR; I EMAIL THE MANUFACTURE NO RESPONSE; APRIL 2013 I HAD CURBSIDE REAR TIRE TOOK TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT EL PASO HAD ROUGH ROADS AND THAT THE BLISTERS FORM FROM WEAR AND TEAR; SO I REPLACE ALL FOUR RUN FLAT TIRES AND NO MORE BUBBLES FORMING ON TIRES. NOT COUNTING THE TIRE REPLACE BY BMW LANDSTUHL I HAVE REPLACED 3 TIRES. *TR
Apr 14, 2013
I HAVE A 2011 BMW 535I WITH 16,300 MILES WHICH DEVELOPED A BUBBLE ON THE OUTSIDE SIDEWALL OF THE 19" GOODYEAR EXCELLENCE RUN FLAT TIRE. THERE WAS NO POTHOLE IMPACT OR OTHER INCIDENT THAT I AM AWARE OF. THE REPLACEMENT COST AT THE BMW DEALER WAS OVER $500. I HAVE SINCE LEARNED THAT THERE ARE MANY INSTANCES OF PROBLEMS WITH THESE TIRES. WHY HAVEN'T THEY BEEN RECALLED? *TR
Jul 25, 2012
GOODYEAR EAGLE LS TIRES SIDEWALL BUBBLES AFTER DRIVING JUST A FEW THOUSAND MILES. THIS IS THE SECOND TIRE WITH A DEFECT THAT WAS NOT CAUSED BY ANY IMPACT. *TR
Jun 18, 2012
+ 47 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
28 complaints
Hello, I received a recall notice almost 6 months ago on my car and I have been in contact with BMW Corporate and they have been completely useless (This is my first BMW and it will be my last). I haven't been able to drive my car for almost 6 months due to the VANOS engine bolt recall. My car has been experiencing the symptoms of stalling, loss of power and it has gone into Safe mode. I have called McKenna BMW in Norwalk and was told not to drive the car because it isn't safe to do so. and by the Owner of Orange Motors who is a Specialty Shop for BMW owners. I have called BMW Corporate numerous times and sent multiple emails ( i can't even get a response to my emails) and cant get any assistance in getting my car fixed. I asked BMW for assistance in getting a rental car and they said that is the responsibility of the dealership and the dealership is telling me that I need to call BMW Corporate. I spoke to a woman named Jenny at BMW corporate about 2 - 3 weeks ago and she told me to call the dealership and explain what is going on with my car and request that a special case be opened so rush my parts needed to fix my car and I still can't get any help. I have called Sterling BMW & Crevier BMW and they made it very clear they do not have the parts to fix my car, I mentioned what BMW corporate told me and they acted like they had no clue what I was talking about. I told them that my car is dead in my garage as it has been sitting for about 6 months. I just keep getting passed around and all I am trying to do is get my car fixed so I can drive it. I have had a rental car for 6 months now because I can't drive my own car as it is unsafe. I would just like my car fixed please assist me in getting help from BMW because they keep brushing me off. Can I pay to have the car fixed and get reimbursed? This is their product/brand and they should offer better assistance in getting it fixed. It's ridiculous that it's been 6 months and still no repair options. What a joke.
Apr 17, 2024
The water pump failure recall BMW currently has for 8 and 12 cylinder engines need to include 3.0 6 cylinder engines also. My car had the identical failure as the current recall and its not covered . Why? There is just as many 6 cylinder water pump failures as 8 and 12 cylinder cars . This is not right . Extremely dangerous and needs rectified now . Please help me my email is [XXX] Phone [XXX]. My car is currently exhibiting the water pump failure . I'm afraid to take my family anywhere in the car . INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Jun 15, 2022
My car is leaking oil from one of the rings in the engine and it’s leaking on the manifold
Dec 08, 2021
VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT MY WORK AND THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE IN THE PARKING LOT. BMW OF SAN ANTONIO SAYS OIL LEAKED FROM THE VALVE COVER TO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. PROBLEM IS, EXHAUST MANIFOLD IS FAR PASSENGER SIDE. FIRE WAS TOP REAR OF THE MOTOR.
Sep 24, 2020
2011 535XI WITH 95,000 MILES WAS SERVICED AND PASSED ALL INSPECTIONS, LESS THAN 700 MILES LATER ENGINE STARTS MAKING A KNOCKING SOUND WHILE DRIVING. IMMEDIATELY STOPPED AND TOWED TO DEALER WHERE THEY FOUND METALLIC SHAVINGS IN OIL FILTER. SAID ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $36,591 BUT OFFERED NO CAUSE FOR THE FAILURE.
Dec 05, 2019
+ 23 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
28 complaints
while driving on the highway the car turned off suddenly. Car was towed to home after checking possible causes we found out the even the THE FUEL GAUGE IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WAS displaying a large amount of fuel ( 1/2 tank) actually it was empty . We did put 2 gallons of gasoline than car start up again but the fuel gauge still showing half of tank.
Jul 12, 2021
TRYING TO CHANGE LINE GO SEVENTH MILES CAUSES THE CAR TO GO IN LIMP MODE
Oct 15, 2020
VEHICLE HAS STOPPED RUNNING MULTIPLE TIMES. MOST TIMES IT HAS STALLED OUT WHILE IDLING AFTER A LONG DRIVE AND HAS BEEN PUT IN PARK. ONE TIME IT JUST STOP RUNNING WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF AND INTERSECTION WITH TRAFFIC TURNING RIGHT. ANOTHER TIME I HAD A ST UDDER WHILE TURNING LEFT WHICH I LOOKED DOWN AND GOT IN A ACCIDENT. BMW HAS TOLD ME THIS IS THE BATTERY, LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WHICH HAVE ALL BEEN REPLACE; HOWEVER I AM STILL HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM.
Mar 19, 2020
FUEL SYSTEM WAS THE ALARM ON THE CAR AND IT WON'T STAY STARTED ON MORE THAN 2 SECONDS. FINAL AFTER 4 ATTEMPTS IT WON'T START AT ALL. HAD TO GET THE VEHICLE TOWED.
Dec 08, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE "FUEL MALFUNCTION" WARNING MESSAGE APPEARED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (BMW OF ARLINGTON IN ARLINGTON, TEXAS) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND THE FUEL PUMP CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,196.
May 02, 2018
+ 23 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
19 complaints
THE BACK AND FRONT AXLES AREN'T RELIABLE AT ALL. ALL FOUR ON MY CAR ARE DAMAGED AND EVERY TIME I GO OVER A BUMP IT'S A VIOLENT SOUND AND FEELING.
Jan 08, 2021
A WARNING CAME ON FOR DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION AND THE ENGINE STARTED TO CHOKE AND LOSE POWER WHILE DRIVING.
Nov 27, 2020
2011 535I XDRIVE GT CV JOINTS ON DRIVE SHAFT FAILED WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY DESTROYING THE CAR RENDERING IT UNDRIVABLE. NO RECALLS ON THIS MODEL OR THIS VIN ALTHOUGH ALL OTHER LIKE MODELS WERE ON RECALL. CAR PURCHASED AND SERVICED AT BMW DEALERSHIP.
Mar 12, 2020
SES LIGHT ILLUMINATED. CHECKED THE OBD2 SYSTEM FOR A CODE. P-2763 IS PRESENT. TROUBLESHOOTING FOR THE ISSUE REVEALED THE ORANGE TCC PRESSURE CONTROL SOLENOID IS MALFUNCTIONING. ZF WILL NOT SELL THE SOLENOID INDIVIDUALLY. THEY REQUIRE THE CONSUMER TO PURCHASE A MECHATRONIC UNIT. THE ORANGE SOLENOID IS A SCARCE PART TO FIND LOCALLY IN THE U.S. ONLINE PRICES ARE AROUND $90. ON THE GLOBAL MARKET. THESE ARE NOT NEW SOLENOIDS. THE MECHATRONIC UNIT, OVERHAULED IS $1600 PLUS A CORE CHARGE. PLUS LABOR. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT ZF WILL NOT SUPPORT THE 8HP TRANSMISSION BY SELLING THE SOLENOID INDIVIDUALLY. COSTING ME SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS WHEN A SINGLE PART AROUND $100 DOLLARS WILL REPAIR THE TRANSMISSION. ZF CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMED ME THAT I SHOULD SOURCE THE PART THROUGH A USED PARTS DEALER OR LOCAL JUNK YARD. I TRIED BUT NO TRANSMISSIONS ARE AVAILABLE. I HAVE BEEN LOOKING SINCE MAY OF 2019. I TALKED TO BMW AND CHRYSLER PARTS DEPARTMENTS AT MY LOCAL DEALERS. THE TELL ME THEY CAN ONLY ORDER THE MECHATRONIC UNIT.
Feb 06, 2020
AFTER BRINGING MY CAR TO BMW OF BUENA PARK TO TAKE CARE OF A COUPLE OF RECALLS, A COUPLE OF MILES AFTER I GET ON THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 60 MPH THE CAR LOST POWER AND I HEARD THE EMERGENCY SOUND ON MY DASHBOARD, THE EMERGENCY LIGHT CAME ON AND A MESSAGE ON MY SCREEN SAYING ' DRIVE MODERATELY, MAXIMUM DRIVE TRAIN OUTPUT NOT AVAILABLE' THE CAR DID NOT STOP BUT LOST LOTS OF POWER
Sep 29, 2018
+ 14 more complaints for this component
STEERING
16 complaints
A FEW DAYS BACK MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A SQUEAKY NOISE LIKE ONE OF THE RUBBERS HAVE GONE BAD IN THE STEERING COLUMN. MY CAR HAS APPROXIMATELY 55K MILES ON IT AND IS MAJORLY GARAGE KEPT. I RESEARCHED ONLINE AND THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINS OF THE SAME ISSUE. YOU CAN SEE AN EXAMPLE AT: HTTP://F30.BIMMERPOST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=838504 YOU CAN HEAR THE SQUEAK IF THE CAR IS DRIVING OR IS STATIC.
Apr 05, 2018
THE CAR WILL NOT GO STRAIGHT. IT KEEPS PULLING TO THE RIGHT SIDE. *TR
May 29, 2012
VEHICLE HAS BEEN PULLING TO THE RIGHT SINCE I DROVE THE CAR OFF THE LOT. I'VE HAD THE CAR IN FOR SERVICE MULTIPLE TIMES WITH NO RESOLUTION FROM FIELDS BMW SOUTH IN ORLANDO OR BMW NORTH AMERICA. I'VE HAVE FILED A LAWSUIT UNDER THE FLORIDA LEMON LAW AND WILL PERSUE RESOLUTION FOR THIS DEFECTIVE VEHICLE. *TR
Apr 29, 2012
I HAVE A NEW BMW 550I WITH SPORT PACKAGE AND 19" WHEELS. THIS CAR IS TRYING TO KILL ME. THE CAR STEERS WHEREVER IT WANTS TO. I HAVE HAD IT TO THE DEALER SINCE DAY ONE AND THEY REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE ANY PROBLEM. THEY HAVE CHANGED THE SOFTWARE AND THE STEERING COLUMN TO APPEASE ME, BUT TO NO AVAIL. THIS CAR WILL PULL YOU TOWARD THE GUARD RAIL AND ONLY A FRANTIC, PANIC, SAVE MY LIFE MOVE CAN KEEP THE CAR FROM CRASHING. I FEAR FOR MY LIFE WHEN I DRIVE THIS CAR. I HAVE NEVER AND I REPEAT NEVER DRIVEN SUCH A HORRIBLE CAR.MAYBE WHEN I A AM KILLED IN THIS CAR BMW WILL PAY FOR MY FUNERAL. THIS IS THE BIGGEST COVER UP IN THE HISTORY OF CARS. THEY HAVE LACK OF CONSCIENCE THAT IS INCONCEIVABLE THAT THEY ARE TORTURING NEW OWNERS OF THIS CAR WHO PAID GOOD IF NOT BLOOD MONEY TO OWN ONE AND NOW DESPERATELY WANT HELP TO FIX OR GET RID OF THIS CAR. I WANT OUT. I AM TALKING TO LAWYERS AND MAYBE THIS IS THE ONLY LANGUAGE BMW UNDERSTANDS. CLASS ACTION SUIT SEEMS LOGICAL. I AM CONTACTING MEDIA AND ANYONE ELSE I CAN.I TRIED TO TRADE THIS CAR IN AT SEVERAL DEALERS. BOTH OF THESE DEALERS SENT ME A LETTER STATING THAT THEY WOULD NOT TAKE MY CAR IN TRADE AFTER TEST DRIVING IT. THEY SAID IT WAS DEFECTIVE AND UNSAFE. THEY WANT NO PART OF IT. IN ALL OF MY LIFE I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF ANYTHING LIKE THIS. A NEW CAR COSTING 75K AND THEY WON'T TAKE IT IN TRADE WITH 6000 MILES. NEVER HAVE I HEARD OF THIS. SO, GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR PIECE OF CRAP F10 550I AND I HOPE YOU LIVE THROUGH IT. *TR
Jan 22, 2011
MY 2011 BMW 550I SEDAN HAS HAD STEERING WHEEL GRINDING SENSATIONS AND LOUD NOISES WHEN I TURN THE WHEEL AT LOW SPEEDS. SOMETIMES THERE IS A "THUD" COMING FROM THE STEERING COMPONENT ALSO. BMW STATES THERE ARE NO FIXES FOR THIS AND THAT IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. THIS IS INDEED A SAFETY ISSUE SINCE THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE STEERING WHEEL AREA INDEED HAS A PROBLEM. THE SERVICE DEALERSHIPS IS STATING IT IS A VALVE BLOCK PROBLEM WHICH HAS A CURRENT BACKORDER OF 2 WEEKS. HOWEVER, PEOPLE WHO HAVE REPLACED THE VALVE BLOCK IS STILL HAVING THE SAME STEERING WHEEL PROBLEMS WITH THEIR VEHICLES. I HAVE INCLUDED A LINK TO A BMW FORUM THAT HAS ABOUT 1 IN 3 OWNERS EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM- HTTP://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=495019&PAGE=18 IF THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL FAILURE AT HIGHER SPEEDS, IT CAN POTENTIALLY LEAD TO HUGE CATASTROPHIES. *TR
Jan 07, 2011
+ 11 more complaints for this component
WHEELS
12 complaints
Product Safety Alert: Jan 30, 2025 Stop using the following item because of a potential safety issue. Visit the public recall notice for more guidance. 245/45R18 100Y XL RFT PIR CINTURA P7 (M0E)(BMW/RR) 245/45R18 100Y XL RFT PIR CINTURA P7 (M0E)(BMW/RR)
Jan 30, 2025
Tire pressure monitor warned that my left rear tire was low. Next day same thing. I went to have tire patched was told that the wheel had a crack in it. That was the cause for slow leak.
Feb 24, 2023
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SEVERAL WHEELS FRACTURED PREMATURELY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS EXPERIENCED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CIRCLE BMW (500 STATE ROUTE 36, EATONTOWN, NJ, 07724, (732)-440-1200) TO BE INSPECTED DUE TO AN ABNORMAL SOUND UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT WHEEL AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR WHEELS WERE BENT. THE WHEELS WERE NOT REPAIRED NOR REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 133,500. *LN
Apr 24, 2020
THE OEM WHEEL, 71414, IS PRONE TO CRACKING AND BREAKING. I HAVE REPAIRED AND REPLACED MORE THAN 4 WHEELS ON THIS VEHICLE SINCE IT WAS PURCHASED ALONG WITH TIRES.
Jul 14, 2019
I PURCHASED A 2011 BMW IN SEPTEMBER 2014. I HAVE HAD 4 GOOD YEAR RUN FLAT TIRES WITH BUBBLES. I REPLACED TWO AND WHEN THE NEXT TWO FORMED BUBBLES I DECIDED TO REPLACE THEM WITH ANOTHER BRAND. I HAD FIRESTONE GIVE ME THE LAST TWO BUBBLE TIRES SO I WOULD HAVE EVIDENCE OF THE FAILURE. THE COST TO ME AT THIS TIME IS $ 1837.65
Jan 03, 2016
+ 7 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
10 complaints
The contact owned a 2011 BMW 535i. The contact stated that while the vehicle was unoccupied and parked in a parking lot, it was brought to the attention of the contact that the vehicle caught on fire. The local fire department arrived on the scene to extinguish the fire. The contact stated that it was unknown if a fire report was filed. A police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The origin of the fire was unknown. The contact stated that the fire damaged one other parked and unoccupied vehicle that was nearby. The vehicle was towed by the insurance and was deemed a total loss. The vehicle remained in the possession of the insurance provider for further investigation. The local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Feb 10, 2025
Wiring in the headlight assembly is losing its insulation, allowing wires to short and headlamps to fail to operate.
Apr 22, 2023
Car failed to start due fuel pump wires malfunction.
Aug 28, 2021
Rear driver windows fault. check engine light came on car scanned and got fault code 030115 " Rear door power window on driver side . invalid characteristics curve- no normalization present
Jul 30, 2021
WHILE DRIVING WITH AC ON SMOKE STARTED COMING HEAVILY FOR THE INTERIOR AC VENTS. A VERY TOXIC SMOKE, WITH ELECTRICAL SMELL. I NOTICED THE BMW 3 SERIES HAS A RECALL ON ELECTRICAL BLOWER PROBLEM. I THINK MY CAR HAS THE SAME ISSUE.
Mar 26, 2019
+ 5 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
I purchased the BMW 535 and it continues to have drivetrain malfunction issues. This feels like a safety concern for several reasons. The first is that were not able to identify the issue, but I believe it has to do with the systems diagnostics being triggered or misfiring this is an unfortunateissue because wherever we are, we can get stuck randomly. Lastly, the car has an issue with Oberheu. Issue because wherever we are, we can get stuck randomly. Lastly, the car has a issue with overheating believe it has to do with the radial hose
Jun 16, 2025
CarMax sold me a car but rolled back the odometer before I took possession. Autocheck report shows mileage of 59,964 on June 16, 2014 and 57,116 on Sep 16, 2014 when I bought it. I never saw this report until I tried to trade it in last week. Offered 1/2 of value bc of tampering. I called CarMax to correct this and they said they aren't liable bc the title says Actual Mileage even though they know it's not.
Mar 30, 2023
DRIVING I HEAR THIS LOUD NOISE COMING FROM UP UNDER MY HOOD .THIS NOISE IS SO LOUD ITS LIKE THE FAN IS IDLING UP AT FOR BOUT 5 SECONDS ,IN OTHER WORDS ITS OVER HEATING .
Jan 08, 2019
MY WIFE WENT TO GET A HAIRCUT, PARKED HER 2011 BMW 535XI AWD AT APPROXIMATELY 1:30 P.M. MST (THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND THE CAR WAS LOCKED) IN THE RETAIL CENTER PARKING LOT. AT APPROXIMATELY 2:45 P.M. MST SOMEONE ENTERED THE SALON AND SAID A CAR WAS ON FIRE (HER CAR). THE FIRE APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN IN THE BACK SIDE OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. IT IS CONCERNING A PARKED CAR THAT WAS TURNED OFF AND LOCKED STARTED ON FIRE. THANKFULLY FOR MY WIFE AND TWO CHILDREN WHO ARE USUALLY WITH HER THE CAR DIDN'T CATCH FIRE WHEN THEY WERE IN THE CAR OR WHILE IT WAS PARKED IN OUR HOME GARAGE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO MY SON'S BEDROOM. I RESEARCHED THE ISSUE ONLINE AND FOUND MANY OTHER BMW OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AND THAT BMW ISSUED A RECALL TO FIX THE ISSUES. I CHECKED OUR CAR FOR RECALLS TONIGHT AND BOTH THE BMW SITE AND NHTSA SITE SHOWED ZERO OPEN RECALLS. PLEASE ADVISE ON WHAT STEPS WE SHOULD DO TO ENSURE THIS TRAGIC EVENT DOESN'T OCCUR TO OTHER OWNERS.
Nov 29, 2018
WITH TIME, THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE MATERIAL (ON DRIVER AS WELL AS PASSENGER SIDE ON FRONT AND REAR) MELTS / DISINTEGRATES AND IT SEEMS TO BE HARMFUL FOR KIDS TO BE TOUCHING IT AND MAYBE EVEN PLAYING WITH IT WITH A RISK TO BE INGESTING SUCH STICKY SUBSTANCE WHICH KEEPS PEELING. IT IS POTENTIALLY ALSO HARMFUL FOR ADULTS TO BE USING THE VEHICLE (SPECIALLY AN HANDLE WHICH IS USED TO CLOSE AND OPEN THE DOOR) AND THEN BY MISTAKE CONSUMING FOOD ITEMS WITH THAT HAND ' PLEASE REVIEW THIS CASE - IT SEEMS A PREVALENT PROBLEM IN THIS MODEL SYSTEMICALLY RIGHT SIDE HANDLE PART NUMBER OF BMW - 51-41-7-225-860 LEFT SIDE HANDLE PART NUMBER OF BMW - 51-41-7-261-929
Jul 27, 2018
+ 3 more complaints for this component
TIRES,WHEELS
8 complaints
6 TIRES IN LESS THAN A 3 YEAR PERIOD HAVE FAILED. SOME HAVE BUBBLED. TWO HAVE GONE FLAT. ONE FAILED ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65MPH. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PARTICULAR PROBLEM WITH THE GOODYEAR RUNFLAT TIRES ON THE 19 INCH RIMS ON THIS VEHICLE. SMALL POTHOLES ARE UNAVOIDABLE ON MASSACHUSETTS ROADWAYS. SOME OF THE INCIDENTS OCCURRED DAYS AFTER. OTHERS WERE UNASSOCIATED WITH SUCH AN INCIDENT. BOTH BMW AND GOODYEAR REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM. *TR
Aug 15, 2014
THE GOODYEAR RUN FLAT TIRES ON THE VEHICLE CONTINUOUSLY DEVELOP BUBBLES ON THE SIDEWALL. I HAVE HAD THE TIRES REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES AND BMW REPLACED BECAUSE I HAD A TIRE/WHEEL PACKAGE. NOW THAT THE TIRE/WHEEL PACKAGE HAS EXPIRED I HAVE BEEN REFERRED TO GOODYEAR REGARDING THIS MATTER. I DO FEEL THAT THIS IS A GOODYEAR ISSUE BUT ALSO A BMW ISSUE BECAUSE THEY ARE INSTALLING A DEFECTED PRODUCT ON THEIR VEHICLES. FROM MY RECENT RESEARCH I SEE THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS AND THE PROBLEM HAS YET TO BE RECTIFIED. THESE TIRES ARE UNSAFE AND ARE A HAZARDS. WILL IT TAKE SOMEONE BEING KILLED BEFORE SOMETHING IS REQUIRED OF BOTH BMW AND GOODYEAR TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM AT THEIR EXPENSE AND NOT THE CONSUMERS???? *TR
Apr 09, 2013
WHILE DRIVING MY 2011 BMW 535I ON THE INTERSTATE, ON A CONSTRUCTION ZONE, AT 11:00 PM, I HIT A POT HOLE WITH MY FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE. ALMOST IMMEDIATELY NOTICED FRONT END VIBRATION. PULLED OVER, DID NOT NOTICE DAMAGE TO THE WHEEL/ TIRE AND CONTINUED DRIVING UNTIL ARRIVED AT HOME WITHOUT TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING ACTIVATION. UPON INSPECTION OF THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE, NOTICED AN APPROXIMATELLY A 3 INCH LONG "BUBBLE" ON THE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. FOLLOWING MONDAY, BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE GOOD YEAR SHOP FOR INSPECTION AFTER OPENING UP A CASE VIA THE 800 NUMBER WITH GOODYEAR. UPON INSPECTION BY THE GOODYEAR MECHANIC, THERE WAS A LARGE 3-4 INCH TEAR IN THE INSIDE LAYER OF THE SIDEWALL. UNABLE TO DETERMINE HOW MANY LAYERS INVOLVED. MOST LIKELY THAT THE OUTSIDE LAYER NOT INVOLVED BECAUSE TIRE MAINTENED PRESSURE AT ALL TIMES. BASED ON A WEB SEARCH, IT APPEARS THAT THERE HAVE BEEN MULTIPLE FAILURES OF THE SIDEWALL OF THESE TIRES. TIRE INVOLVED, GOODYEAR EAGLE LS2 ROF, DOT NE66 JP1R 2011. WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE? *TR
Apr 01, 2013
THE AUTOMOBILE HAS THE STOCK WHEELS/TIRES THAT CAME WITH THE M535 XI (GOODYEAR EAGLE LS RUNFLATS 245/40 R19). AFTER RECEIVING THE VEHICLE BACK FROM BMW SERVICE, I NOTICED THAT THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE (INFLATED TO 35 PSI) HAS A BULGE ON THE EXTERIOR SIDEWALL. *TR
Aug 23, 2012
I HAVE A 2011 BMW 535I WITH RUN FLAT TIRES. AFTER HITTING A SMALL POT HOLE I NOTICED BUBBLES ON THE OUTSIDE OF BOTH FRONT TIRES. THERE WAS ALSO A SMALL SLASH IN THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE. I TOOK MY CAR TO BMW TODAY AND AT FIRST WAS TOLD THAT THAT THIS IS A NORMAL OCCURENCE IF YOU HIT A POTHOLE. I TOLD THEM THAT NEVER IN THE HISTORY OF DRIVING HAD I EVER EXPERIENCED A TIRE BEING DAMAGED IN THIS WAY DUE TO A SMALL POT HOLE. I AM NOW WAITING TO SEE WHAT THEIR RESPONSE TO THIS PROBLEM WILL BE. THEY TRIED TO BLAME ME AND HAVE ME BUY TIRES FROM THEM BUT AFTER I REFUSED THEY SAID THEY WOULD TRY TO WORK SOMETHING OUT. *TR
Jan 02, 2012
+ 3 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
6 complaints
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 535I. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was losing motive power and was running rough. The contact stated that the instrument cluster went black. The contact turned into a parking lot as the vehicle stalled. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle but after several attempts failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact had an independent mechanic diagnose the vehicle at the residence. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the VANOS bolts had fractured and the timing camshaft had detached. The mechanic advised the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Aug 01, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 5 Series. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed as a camshaft failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number- 14V176000 ( Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,000. The VIN was not available.
Mar 21, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 335I. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the bolts used to secure the housing for the camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit had loosened over time, causing the vehicle to stall. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V176000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) which he linked to the failure. The contact called two dealers and the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Dec 06, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V176000 (ENGINE, ENGINE COOLING) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Aug 01, 2014
CPSC:I1320310A. 2011 BMW 535I. CONSUMER STATED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STOPPED. *LN THE FIRST TIME THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, THEY INFORMED HIM, THE PROBLEM WAS MINOR AND SUPPOSEDLY FIXED IT. THE SECOND TIME, THE INCIDENT OCCURRED, THE DEALER STATED IT WOULD TAKE 10 DAYS TO FIX THE PROBLEM.
Feb 19, 2013
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
6 complaints
BMW REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY OF CONSEQUENTIAL ISSUES CAUSED MY FAULTY FUEL PUMP RECALL AND IS TRYING TO CHARGE ME 21000 to fix. Engine reads maximum drivetrain output drive moderately
May 24, 2024
Been fixing an unknown issue due to fuel presure, loss of engine power and car gets extra hot but doesn’t over heat, I have fixed the issue more on 2 different occasions. I didn’t pass the smog text so that’s when I was told to check for any recalls, now the issues returned with same problems and probably won’t pass smog again. I have all recorded from all the years of maintenance and I’m very diligent on on time maintenance or if theirs is any kind of malfunction. I’m now addressing the situation to you as I believe that there’s something wrong that’s beyond my control. I’ve also encountered other people with same vehicle with similar issues.
May 11, 2024
CARE WAS IN MOTION ON LOCAL STREET CARE STARTED STALLING, DECREASE IN FUEL, SMOKE OUT OF TAIL PIPE, COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE, UNABLE TO START ON ENGINE. THERE ARE MULTIPLE FORUMS ON THIS SPECIFIC VEHICLE WITH ISSUES DUE TO FUEL INJECTOR. SINCE I AM NOT THE ORIGINAL BUYER ON VEHICLE I WAS NOT AWARE AND WAS NEVER NOTIFIED BY THE NEW DEALER THAT THERE WOULD BE AN ISSUE. VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT AT 126K MILES IN SEPT 2019.
Dec 23, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER LOCATED ON 43 NORTH AVE, BRIDGEPORT, CT 06606, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
May 25, 2017
MY CAR STALLED WHILE DRIVING AROUND 50 MPH ON A 4-LANE HIGHWAY ON 13 MAY 2016. IT STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD BLOCKING TRAFFIC. I WAS ABLE TO BACK THE CAR OFF THE ROAD (INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC) WITH MUCH DIFFICULTY BECAUSE ALL SYSTEMS WERE SHUT DOWN. I CALLED AAA AND WAITED. THE CAR STARTED AFTER I WAITED ABOUT 20 MINUTES AND I CANCELLED THE AAA TOW. THIS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE, THE LAST TIME WAS WHEN I HAD ABOUT 70,000 MILES ON THE CAR. THE CAR WAS RECALLED, I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND IT DID NOT HAPPEN AGAIN UNTIL LAST WEEK. I NOW HAVE 135,000 MILES ON THE CAR. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE. I HAD TO AUTHORIZE THE PRESCRIBED REPAIR. THIS SEEMS TO BE RECURRING DEFECT THAT BMW SHOULD REPAIR IN ALL OF THESE CARS. DEALER TELLS BE THAT IT IS A FUEL PUMP AND FILTER PROBLEM. THIS IS NOT WHAT WAS REPAIRED AT 70,000 MILES.
May 19, 2016
+ 1 more complaint for this component
AIR BAGS
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 535i. The contact stated that when pressing the accelerator pedal to drive from being idle at a red light, the driver's side air bag deployed out of the steering wheel without impact. The contact sustained burns to the left arm, right cheek, and chest area. The contact had suffered stomach issues due to inhaling the dust and fumes from the air bag. Medical attention was required. The vehicle was towed by AAA to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the horn module needed to be replaced; however, the part was not available. The vehicle was towed to another independent mechanic, where the vehicle remained for a month, and Liberty Mutual was to retrieve the vehicle and investigate the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was not investigated to her knowledge, and the vehicle was returned without being repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.
Aug 21, 2025
MY DRIVER AIRBAG HAS A MALFUNCTION BUT NO RECALL. THE DEALERSHIP SAID IT WAS A DEFORMED BAG THAT MEANS MAYBE SOMEONE HIT THE COVER / HORN WHERE THE AIRBAG IS. I'M OVER 60 YEARS OLD AND COULDN'T HIT A FLY THAT HARD.
Jan 05, 2021
IN MAY, 2014 I WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 50 MILES PER HOUR ON THE OLD VALDOSTA HIGHWAY WHEN A SCHOOL BUS RAN A STOP SIGN AND T-BONED ME ON THE DRIVERS SIDE AND NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. *TR
Dec 08, 2016
2011 BMW S335I. CONSUMER REQUESTS PERMISSION TO DEACTIVATE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIRBAG MODULES UNTIL REPLACEMENT PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. *SMD
Dec 06, 2016
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaints
ACCELERATION DELAY FROM A STATIONARY POSITION DUE TO TURBO LAG. VEHICLE DEMONSTRATES SEVERE THROTTLE LAG RESPONSE. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE WHEN YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CALL ON QUICK RESPONSE TO DRIVING.
Jun 14, 2017
THIS VEHICLE IS EQUIPED WITH ACTIVE CRUISE CONTROL TO MAINTAIN A SAFE DISTANCE FROM THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF IT. WHEN PASSING TO THE LEFT OF A LARGE TRUCK (THIS HAS NOT OCCURRED WHEN PASSING SMALLER VEHICLES) AND WHEN THERE IS NOTHING IN THE LANE IN FRONT OF THE BMW, IT ERRONEOUSLY SENSES SOMETHING VERY CLOSE IN FRONT AND MOMENTARILY APPLIES THE BRAKES CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SLOW 2 - 4 MPH. IT QUICKLY SENSES THAT INDEED THERE IS NOTHING IN FRONT OF IT AND RESUMES THE SET SPEED. THIS HAS ONLY BEEN NOTED DURING DAY TIME DRIVING ON DRY ROADS. IS VERY SPOADIC BUT HAS OCCURRED PERHAPS TWO DOZEN TIMES IN 7,000 MILES. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT BMW HAS WITNESSED THE PROBLEM BUT IS BAFFLED AS TO THE CAUSE. *TR
Mar 14, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 5 SERIES. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE CONTACT APPROACHED A STOP SIGN AND DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED DUE TO DRIVER ERROR. THE FAILURE RECURRED THREE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. AN ENGINEER WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND PERFORMED SOFTWARE UPDATES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.
Nov 07, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 528I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD HESITATE WHENEVER HE ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. THE DEALER WAS INFORMED ABOUT THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT IT WAS NORMAL; HOWEVER, SHIFTING INTO SPORT MODE WOULD PREVENT THE FAILURE FROM OCCURRING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 1575.
Oct 05, 2010
SUSPENSION
3 complaints
CV JOINTS . CARS WAS PARKED AND THE CAR LEANED . AT TIME WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD THE VEHICLE WOULD LEAN TO ONE SIDE . ONCE YOU START DRIVING THE LEANING WOULD ADJUST AND THE CAR WOULD EVEN OUT
Mar 29, 2020
THE VEHICLE MAKES A GRINDING NOISE AT LOW SPEEDS ON RIGHT TURNS. THIS HAPPENS BOTH IN COLD AND WARM WEATHER AND IS HEARD ABOUT 80-90% OF THE TIME. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER TO ASSESS THE ISSUE, HOWEVER THEY WERE UNABLE TO REPRODUCE THE NOISE OR IDENTIFY ANY PROBLEMS. *TR
Jan 09, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 550I. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN TO VIBRATE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHENEVER ENCOUNTERING A SLIGHT IMPERFECTION IN THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FRONT END SUSPENSION FAILURE. THE TECHNICIAN TEST DROVE A SIMILAR MODEL YEAR VEHICLE WHICH EXHIBITED THE IDENTICAL FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS AT THE DEALER FOR A MONTH AND REMAINED THERE FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,100.
Dec 23, 2010
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION IS ON MAY BE DUE TO A BAD FUEL PUMP OR ENGINE COILS
Dec 29, 2019
MY VEHICLE CUT OFF WHILE DRIVING DRIVE TRAIN/ DRIVE SHAFT MESSAGE CAME ON WHICH MADE MY ENGINE LIGHT COME ON SHUDDERING WITH HEAVY SHAKING MAKING WEIRD NOISES WHICH ARE THE SYSTEMS OF A DEFECTED DRIVE SHAFT SAME SYMPTOMS THAT APPLY TO RECALL 17V067000 VERY SCARY MY VEHICLE WAS JUST AT BMW DEALERSHIP FOR A RECALL DUE TO AN AGGRESSIVE FUEL LEAK...,I ASKED ABOUT THE RECALL FOR THE DRIVE TRAIN I WAS ADVISED YES IT'S A RECALL BUT NOT FOR MY VEHICLE WHICH IS A 2011 535I AT THE TOP OF THE RECALL LIST THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND THE 2ND TIME THIS CAR HAVE PUT MY LIFE IN DANGER HOW CAN YOU HAVE A RECALL ON THE 2011 535I AND THEN SAY NOT MY SPECIFIC VEHICLE BMW IS THE WORST I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER BMW I CANNOT BELIEVE IT THESE PARTS CANNOT BE FROM WEAR AND TEAR THIS STARTS FROM PRODUCTION OF VEHICLE
Oct 24, 2019
DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION -DRIVING ON HWY WHEN ERROR WAS DISPLAYED AND CAR SHUTDOWN IN ON ME AND WOULD NOT START BACK UP -DEALERSHIP STATED THEY REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP -ISSUE HAPPENED AGAIN -WHILE DRIVING - UNDER 3000 MILES LATER - SAME ERROR CODES OF LOW PRESSURE - CAR HESITANT TO CRANK AND STUDDERING ON LOW SPEEDS- TOWED TO DEALER WAS TOLD NO ISSUE FOUND AND THEY REPROGRAMMED THE FUEL PUMP -SAME ISSUE AGAIN - FUEL LINE AND SENSOR REPLACED -RAN FINE FOR ANOTHER 1000 MILES OR SO -WHILE DRIVING THE CAR JERKED REALLY HARD AND GAVE THE SAME DRIVETRAN MALFUNCTION ERROR --WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP HOWEVER CAR WOULD NOT DRIVE AT FULL SPEED- SAME CODES SEEN STORED -- BMW DO NOT KNOW WHATS CAUSING THE ISSUE HOWEVER REPLACING PARTS HOPING IT WILL FIX THE ISSUE AND CHARGING ME FOR THEIR TRIAL AND ERROR. -SINCE 2 MORE PARTS REPLACED CAR NOW WITH NEW ERROR AND OF COURSE BMW HAS NO CLUE BUT WANT TO CHARGE ME ANOTHER 1000 TO REPLACE ANOTHER PART.
Dec 28, 2018
VISIBILITY
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 5-SERIES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION IN WHICH THE VENT CONTROLS FAILED TO FUNCTION FOR THE AIR CONDITIONER AND HEATER. DUE TO THE EXTREME TEMPERATURES, THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. BMW OF WILMINGTON (4920 NEW CENTRE DR, WILMINGTON, NC 28403, (910) 392-2700) STATED THAT THE BLOWER MOTOR MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED AND WAS TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TESTED AND DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE, BUT THE DETAILS WERE UNKNOWN. VOLVO CARS NEW BERN (3405 DOCTOR M.L.K. JR BLVD, NEW BERN, NC 28562, (252) 638-6161) DIAGNOSED THAT THE BLOWER MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000. *JS
Jun 19, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SPOUSE WAS DRIVING 20 MPH, THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED WITH A LOUD BLAST. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER IN A NEARBY PARKING LOT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND DROVE HOME. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ASSIGNED A CASE MANAGER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,945.
Dec 26, 2018
AS I WAITED FOR MY WIFE IN MY APARTMENT PARKING SPACE, MY REAR WINDSHIELD SHATTERED COMPLETELY WITH A LOUD BANG. I WAS COMPLETELY TAKEN BY SURPRISE AND FRIGHTENED BY THE NOISE. I WAS LUCKY NOT TO BE IN MOTION AT THE TIME OF THE SHATTERING. NO FOREIGN OBJECTS IMPACTED MY VEHICLE OR THE REAR WINDSHIELD. *TR
Aug 08, 2013
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF A RECALL FOR THE IN-TANK FUEL PUMP. HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT REFUSED TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER AND STATED THAT IT WAS NOT HER RESPONSIBILITY. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. ..UPDATED 06/27/17 *BF
May 04, 2017
WAS PARKING 2011 BMW 550 AUTOMATIC.CAR SUDDENLY TOOK OFF AND HIT VERY HARD ON STONE WALL.ALL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED INCLUDING LOWER PASSENGER WINDOWS.CAR ELECTRIC SYSTEM FAILED.LOTS OF DAMAGE TO CAR. ALSO TAKEN CAR TO DEALER BEFORE DUE TO PULLINGOF CAR ON RIGHT WHILE DRIVIG AND ON APPLYING BRAKES.
Mar 29, 2011
THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, MY WIFE DROVE OUR 2011 BMW 535I TO WORK AND THE FUEL GAUGE WAS READING HALF TANK. IT'S ONLY APPROX. 20 MILES TO WORK ROUND TRIP TO OUR HOUSE BUT WHEN SHE CAME BACK HOME THE FUEL GAUGE WAS ALMOST EMPTY AND FLASHING WARNING LIGHT FUEL REFILL IS SHOWING. I DROVE THE CAR FOR THE PAST FEW DAYS AND I NOTICED THAT THE FUEL GAUGE INDICATOR SEEMED TO BE STAYING ALL THE TIME AT HALF TANK READING. I DROVE IT THIS MORNING TO OUR FAMILY PHYSICIAN AND TO THE MALL AND I STILL NOTICED THE FUEL GAUGE INDICATOR IS NOT MOVING AND WAS READING HALF TANK. WHEN I WENT TO THE LOCAL GROCERY STORE TO BUY BOTTLED WATER, I DECIDED TO LEAVE THE CAR IDLE AND THE ENGINE ON. WHEN I DROVE IT AGAIN, THAT'S WHEN I NOTICED THE FUEL GAUGE NEEDLE MOVED SLOWLY BUT STEADILY FROM HALF TANK READING TO ALMOST 1/4 TANK. THEN MY WIFE DROVE THE SAME VEHICLE AGAIN TO WORK WITH THE FUEL GAUGE READING 1/4 TANK. 10 MINUTES LATER SHE CALLED BACK BY PHONE BECAUSE FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS WAS SHOWING THAT THE CAR NEEDS TO REFUELED AND SHE SAID THE FUEL GAUGE IS READING ALMOST EMPTY. *TR
Sep 02, 2010
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
My car suddenly shut off when I came to a stop at a red light while on a busy state route. The information cluster then began to read “Fuel supply” and “Battery Discharge” My car would not turn back on and still has not turned back on since and it's been over a month now. According to the OBD results, the fuel pump and injectors were somehow seized and therefore have caused the car to become inoperable. I was forced to spend over $1000 just to get my car out of the police tow yard and towed to my home because I could not afford the cost of the repairs needed. The NHSTA website states that there is a recall on both the fuel system and the electrical system for my exact vehicle, but according to my Vin search results, there are 0 recalls. That doesn't make sense. I had just got my new inspection done maybe a month prior to my car breaking down.
Mar 28, 2025
While driving on the highway my car turned off suddenly. car was towed to home After checking possible causes we found out that even the fuel gauge in the instruments cluster was displaying a large amount of fuel ( 1/2 tank) actually it was empty. We put two gallons of gasoline then car start up again but fuel gauge still showing half of tank
Jul 29, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
From very low speed (less than 5 MPH), car would not stop with full brakes applied. Front brakes were fully locked as evidenced by skid marks, but car kept pushing forward until stopped by solid object.
Jan 17, 2025
CAR WAS STOLEN FROM STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA FROM MY RESIDENT. CAR IS REGISTERED TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA WITH SOUTH CAROLINA PLATES. THE CAR IS NOW IN NEW YORK AREA, STRATFORD, CT AREA AND NORWALK, CT AREA- DRIVER TOOK CAR OUT MY POSSESSION AND JUMP STATES WITH MY SPARE KEY THAT WAS INSIDE MY HOME. NEVER GAVE THE DRIVER POSSESSION OR PERMISSION TO DRIVE MY CAR
Jan 08, 2018
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
Drivers side headlight has severe condensation and signal light headlights have malfunction.
Feb 24, 2023
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN EXTREME AMOUNT OF CONDENSATION IN THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLAMP. GRAYSON BMW (10671 PARKSIDE DR., KNOXVILLE, TN 37922, (865) 693-4555) DIAGNOSED THAT THE HEADLAMPS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $8,000. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,000.
May 04, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
Driver side headlight has an extreme condensation issue. Especially after it rains or using a car wash. The condensation leaks into the control light module , which makes the turn signal, parking lamp and the adaptive light to all fail.
Feb 14, 2023
LIGHTING SYSTEM MALFUNCTION APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD DURING 1ST WEEK OF APRIL 2020. IT AFFECTED BATTERY CONSUMPTION, TURN INDICATORS, WINDOW CONTROLS, HEADLIGHT CONTROLS, LOCK/UNLOCK CONFIRMATION... THE DEALERSHIP SUGGESTED FAULTY FOOTWELL MODULE NEEDS REPLACEMENT, COST APPROX. $1323+TAX. A WARRANTY EXTENSION DOCUMENT FOUND ON THE INTERNET FOR FOOTWELL MODULE LISTS ALL MODELS EXCEPT MINE. HTTPS://BIMMERSCAN.COM/WP-CONTENT/UPLOADS/2018/09/B012016-1.PDF
May 04, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
2 complaints
Flame erupted out the top of Passenger seat, sitting cushion. Moms butted blistered, used personal health insurance for medical care. I do have pics in other phone. I will resubmit claim
Aug 16, 2021
WHILE DRIVING FOR 15 MINUTES WITH SEAT WARMERS ON MY HUSBAND (DRIVER) TURNED IT OFF. WE WERE TRAVELLING ON SUBURBAN ROADS AROUND 40 MPH. THEN AT A STOP LIGHT HE NOTICED A BURNING SMELL. WE CONTINUED DRIVING WHEN LIGHT TURNED GREEN. THEN I NOTICED THE SMELL A FEW SECONDS LATER, SO I OPENED A WINDOW EXPECTING TO FIND SMELL A FIRE NEARBY OR HEAR SIRENS. AT THAT POINT WE SAW A PLOOM OF SMOKE COME FROM UNDER HIS SEAT TOWARDS THE PASSENGER SIDE OPEN WINDOW. HE IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER, JUMPED OUT OF THE CAR AND TURNED EVERYTHING OFF. THE SMOKE TOOK SOME TIME TO CLEAR BUT DID STOP. SEVERAL MINUTES LATER WE DROVE 1 MILE TO THE BMW DEALERSHIP. WE WERE TOLD ITS NOT UNDER WARRANTY, AND WOULD COST $1,700 TO FIX. I DECLINED TO PAY $1,700 TO FIX AND REQUESTED THEY DISCONNECT SEAT HEATER. BMW PERSONNEL INFORMED ME IT COULD NOT DISCONNECT POWER TO SEAT HEATER WITHOUT DISCONNECTING THE ENTIRE AC/HEAT SYSTEM. THIS IS A PERSONAL SAFETY ISSUE, NOT A WARRANTY ISSUE. FOR A SEAT HEATER TO CAUSE SMOKE IT CAUSED A FIRE AND THIS IS A DEFECT. THE CAR WILL CATCH ON FIRE IF THE SEAT WARMER IS ACTIVATED. I ASKED DEALERSHIP WHAT IF I LOAN MY CAR TO SOMEONE WHO DOES NOT KNOW ABOUT THE DEFECT, THEY SUGGESTED PUTTING TAPE OVER THE BUTTON. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE SAFETY MEASURE TO PREVENT BURNS, FIRE, OR EVEN DEATH. CONSIDER FOR A MOMENT PEOPLE HAVE SMALL CHILDREN THAT RIDE IN THIS VEHICLE. ON A COLD MORNING I COULD HAVE BUCKLED KIDS IN, TURNED ON CAR, SEAT HEATER, AND TALK TO A NEIGHBOR FOR 2 MINUTES, OR TEACHER AT THE CARPOOL LINE.... WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED TO THE CHILDREN? THERE IS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO VEHICLE BUT BMW PERSONNEL DID AGREE THERE WAS SMOKE SMELL IN VEHICLE CAUSED BY SEAT WARMER.
May 24, 2016
SEATS
2 complaints
MY 2 YEAR-OLD SON'S LEG WAS FRACTURED WHEN THE DRIVER'S SIDE POWER SEAT MALFUNCTIONED WHILE ADJUSTING THE SEAT. THE SEAT WENT BACK INTO THE FARTHEST POSITION WITHOUT STOPPING FRACTURING MY SON'S LEFT LEG WHO WAS IN A FORWARD FACING CAR SEAT IN BACK. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. THE POWER SEAT HAS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FORCE/POWER AND IT SHOULD BE REDUCED. A SAFETY SENSOR TO DETECT RESISTANCE SHOULD BE EQUIPPED IN THE VEHICLE TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING IN THE FUTURE. THIS COULD CAUSE A FRACTURE EVEN IF THE SEAT HADN'T MALFUNCTIONED AND PARENTS SHOULD BE MADE AWARE OF THE DANGER.
Feb 22, 2018
THE MEMORY POWER SEAT IN MY CAR MALFUNCTIONED AND WENT BACK WITHOUT STOPPING CAUSING A FRACTURE TO MY 2 1/2 YEAR OLD SON'S LEG WHO WAS SITTING IN THE CAR SEAT DIRECTLY BEHIND ME. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. *TR
Nov 30, 2016
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION PCV VALVE HEATER THIS IS A RECALL BMW STATES REMEDY NOT AVAILABLE YET.
Nov 04, 2017
STARTED ENGINE, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THIS HAS HAPPENED ABOUT 6 TIMES BEFORE IN THE LAST 2 YEARS. EACH TIME IT WAS RELATED TO FUEL CAP/O2 SENSOR.
Aug 18, 2015
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
IT HAS ACCELERATION ISSUES ALL OF THE TIME. DOES NOT ACCELERATE AS IT SHOULD, INSTEAD IT JERKS. WHEN AT A STOP SIGN OR LIGHT AND LOOKING TO ACCELERATE IT WOULD JERK MAKING IT UNSAFE. I HAVE ALMOST HIT MULTIPLE VEHICLE ECAUSE OF THIS.
Oct 21, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V067000 (POWER TRAIN) AND NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V746000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO PARTS AVAILABLE UNTIL THE END OF JUNE. THE DEALER ALSO STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
May 15, 2017
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
UPON ACCELERATION FROM A STANDSTILL, THERE IS A 1 SECOND DELAY FROM WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS PRESSED TO WHEN THE CAR ACTUALLY MOVES FORWARD. THE HESITATION IS PRESENT WHEN MOVING, BUT NOT NEARLY AS PRONOUNCED AS FROM A STOP. THE ACCELERATION DELAY IS BOTH DANGEROUS AND FRUSTRATING. LIVING IN A HIGH TRAFFIC URBAN AREA WITH LOTS OF HILLS(SAN FRANCISCO), THE DELAY HAS CAUSED ME AND MY FAMILY TO COME CLOSE TO MANY TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS. I AM UNABLE TO ACCELERATE IMMEDIATELY FOR LEFT TURNS AND AM NEARLY T-BONED WITH MY WIFE FEARING FOR HER LIFE. THE PROBLEM IS CONSISTENT AND HAPPENS EVERY TIME. IT IS AN OBVIOUS DESIGN FLAW THAT BMW FAILS TO ADDRESS. TOOK THE CAR TO MY LOCAL BMW DEALER TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE. THEY REPLACED THE TORQUE CONVERTER, BUT THE PROBLEMS REMAINS. TOOK IT IN AGAIN. THIS TIME THE SERVICE MANAGER INSISTED IT WAS TURBO LAG. TEST DROVE WITH A TECHNICIAN AND AFTER MUCH DISCUSSION, HE ADMITTED THAT OTHERS HAVE COMPLAINED AS WELL AND THAT THIS WAS A SOFTWARE DESIGN FLAW. SAID THAT THERE WAS NO FIX AVAILABLE, BUT ACKNOWLEDGED THAT IT WAS A DEFINITE PROBLEM. I WAS GIVEN A 1-SERIES AS A LOANER AND THE PROBLEM WAS NOT EVIDENT. TO ME, BMW HAS A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT MUST BE ADDRESSED. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT WILL RESULT IN MAJOR LEGAL PROCEEDINGS SHOULD I HAVE AN ACCIDENT AS A RESULT OF THIS ISSUE. *TR
Mar 10, 2012
THE CAR HAS ACCELERATION ISSUES WHEN NOT ONLY ADDING ADDITIONAL SPEED WHILE DRIVING BUT WHEN BEGINNING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP SIGN OR TRAFFIC LIGHT, AS WELL. THE CAR HESITATES WHEN ACCELERATING AND THERE IS OFTEN A LAG IN ACCELERATING WHILE THE CAR IS STOPPED OR AT A LOW SPEED, CREATING A SAFETY CONCERN. NOT ONLY IS THERE A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT IT IS NOT HOW A $51,000 LUXURY SEDAN SHOULD DRIVE -- IT IS RATHER ROUGH AND ANNOYING TO DRIVE THE CAR. THE CAR ALSO IDLES AT AN EXTREMELY LOW SPEED OR NO SPEED WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED AFTER SITTING FOR A LONGER PERIOD OF TIME. IN THIS CASE, I HAVE TO APPLY A DECENT AMOUNT OF PRESSURE ON THE ACCELERATOR EVEN TO BACK OUT OF MY GARAGE. *TR
Sep 13, 2011
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
The vehicle is having cooling/ heat problems. Does not overheat while driving but rather driving on high temp. Cools to norm temp here and there. My best thought is electrical. Also same vehicle rattles in rear center when going 65mph.. not sure the cause is.
Jun 21, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 BMW 535i. The contact stated while jump-starting another vehicle in the driveway, he reversed to park the vehicle by the side of the other vehicle; however, the vehicle surged and accelerated unintendedly. The contact stated that he depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle sped into the garage, hit equipment, and hit the contact's wife. The contact stated that he then shifted into drive (D) to drive out of the garage; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle sped through the driveway, struck a stone retaining wall, and entered the roadway. The contact stated that he slightly steered the vehicle to the right and hit a utility pole to stop the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. The contact hit his forehead against the rearview mirror and sustained a bruise. The contact's wife sustained a fractured left lower leg. The ambulance transported the contact's wife to the hospital, where she underwent surgery. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The insurance company then towed the vehicle to another tow lot, where the damage was being estimated. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
Feb 28, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
The drivers headlight has developed significant condensation on its interior caused by a failed seal which in turn damaged or short-circuited the modules disabling my daytime running light, low beam, high beam, and turn signal
May 27, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
Passenger side door lock actuator has failed. Door lock actuators should not be failing on cars that are less than 10m years old. This causes a major safety issue when you are unable to open/unlock the door from the inside or outside because the lock can not be actuated (manually or with button). Given the vast amount of actuators failing, this should be addressed with BMW. This has become a common issue with BMW vehicles.
Oct 11, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2011 BMW 535I THAT HAS FRONT AND REAR CAMERAS AND I HAVE RECORDINGS OF THE LIVE FOOTAGE OF MY INCIDENCE. I WAS DRIVING THROUGH A RESIDENTIAL STREET IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD TO MY HOUSE. I APPROACHED THE GATE ENTRANCE FOR MY COMPLEX AND STOPPED ON THE RIGHT LANE OF THE ROAD TO MAKE A LEFT TURN ACROSS THE OPPOSING TRAFFIC LANE TO APPROACH THE GATE ENTRANCE. WHEN THERE WAS NO ONGOING TRAFFIC, I ACCELERATED TO CROSS THE LANE AND ONCE I HAD CROSS THE OPPOSING LANE AND ENTERED THE DRIVEWAY TO THE MY RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX'S GATE ENTRANCE, I PUSHED ON THE BRAKES TO SLOW DOWN TO ENTER THE KEY CODE TO OPEN THE GATE. THE CAR SLOWLY DOWN AFTER I PUSHED THE BRAKES, BUT THEN IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED IN A HERKY JERK MANNER FOR A 5 SECOND BURST FOR NO REASON (MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE THE ENTIRE TIME AS MY CAR INITIALLY STARTED SLOWLY DOWN AFTER I MADE MY APPROACH TOWARDS THE GATE). THE CAR RAMMED THROUGH AND BROKE THE GATE AND ACCELERATED FOR A FEW SECONDS MORE BEFORE THE CAR FINALLY STOPPED. I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE THE ENTIRE TIME AND KEPT DOWN ON THE BRAKE, WHICH WAS EVIDENT AS THE CAR WAS INITIALLY SLOWLY DOWN FROM AN ACCELERATION BEFORE THE SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION, AS WELL AS EVENTUALLY CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP AFTER THE ACCELERATION INCIDENT. MY BMW HAS BOTH FRONT AND REAR CAMERAS ON IT AND I WAS ABLE TO RECORD THE ENTIRE INCIDENT. I CAN PROVIDE THE FOOTAGE OF THE ACCIDENT. I HAVE A GREAT DRIVING RECORD AND HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED AN INCIDENT LIKE THIS BEFORE. MY CAR IS IN GREAT CONDITION AND HAS BEEN REGULARLY MAINTAINED AND SERVICED. THEREWERE NOT ANY CHECK ENGINE OR NOTIFICATION LIGHTS ON THE CAR BEFORE OR AFTER THE INCIDENT..
Mar 09, 2021
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND VEHICLE SENT AN OVERHEATING MESSAGE AND INSTANTLY THE POWER TO THE MOTOR WAS CUT OFF CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO RAPIDLY SLOW DOWN WITH NO BRAKE SIGNAL SO THE REAR CAR ALMOST REAR ENDED THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE SIGNAL CUTTING POWER TO THE ENGINE DURING THE OVERHEAT MESSAGE, ONCE I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND STOP IT WAS FINE? I CHECKED THE COOLANT AFTER I GOT HOME AND IT WAS AT THE LEVEL REQUIRED, AFTER I WAS ABLE TO THE READ THE CODES IT SHOWED WATERPUMP ? I RECENTLY SAW RECALLS FOR 2011 BMW 5 SERIES ON WATER PUMP ISSUES, I WOULD LIKE TO AD THIS PROBLEM AND OR SAFEY ISSUE TO BE NOTICED, IF ALL THOSE VEHICLES ARE BEING REPORTED TO HAVE WATERPUMP ISSUES ,L BELIEVE MY CAR SHOULD BE ON THAT LIST OF RECALLS AS WELL , THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME WATER PUMP ,SO THAT WOULD EFFECT ALL MODELS 6 CLYINDER ,8 CYLINDER ETC,, TTHE AFTER A MONTH OF NO CODES NO ISSUES, I PULLED INTO MY DRIVEWAY TO GET SOMETHING FROM THE HOUSE, I LEFT THE CAR RUNNING, WHEN I CAM OUT IT HAD SENT AN OVER HEAT SIGNAL AGAIN, WHEN THE CAR WASNT OVERHEATING? IT WAS JUST WEIRD, IT MIGHT BE WISE TO INCLUDE ALL VEHICLES WITH THE 2010-2011 STYLE WATER PUMP TO BE REPLACED AND LOOK INTO THE POWER CUT OFF DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE PUMPS/AND OR THEIR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WHICH ARE BEING RECALLED , PLEASE LET KNOW IF MY CAR CAN BE ADDED TO THE RECALL SO IT COULD BE REPLACED BECAUSE IT HAS THE SAME ISSUES AS THE OTHER MODELS THAT RECALLED, HAVENT DRIVEN ON THE HIGHWAY SINCE, SCARED I MIGHT GET REAR ENDED, IF THE POWER CUTS OFF TO SLOW THE VEHICLE BRAKE LIGHTS SHOULD GO ON OR SOME INDICATOR TO LET VEHICLES FOLLOWING BEHIND KNOW THE VEHICLE IS SLOWING DOWN, LIVE AND LEARN I GEUSS,
Jun 30, 2020
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THIS RECALL HAS MY POWERTRANS NOT PREFORMING AS IT SHOULD. I BROUGHT THE CAR IN 2017 AND THIS RECALL WAS NEVER DONE. I TURN MY CAR IN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SINCE THEN I HAVE BEEN TAKING MY CAR FREQUENTLY TO MECHANICS FOR POWERTRANS PROBLEMS. WHEN I TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY TELL ME THEY DON'T SEE A FAULT FOR THE POWERTRANS IT AS SOON AS I LEAVE THE FAULT RETURNS. I PAID MONEY FOR NUMEROUS DIAGNOSTICS FOR THIS PROBLEM AND I STILL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THIS PROBLEM OCCURS AFTER REACHING SPEEDS OVER 65 MPH.
Feb 10, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
FUEL PUMP(FUEL SYSTEM) RECALL WAS ALLOWED TO FAIL AFTER MANY ATTEMPTS BY ME USING MY GAS TO APPEAR AT BMW TRYING TO DESCRIBE STALLING, GAS SMELL, ENGINE GAS FLOW ISSUES WITH MY CAR BEFORE MAY 2016. (3) YEARS IN AND OUT OF HENDRIX BMW SERVICE DEPARTMENT. LONG RENTAL RETURNS AND REPAIR ON ENGINE LEAKS, GASKET LEAKS , PAN OIL LEAKS AND NOW 6/2/2019 CAR IS STILL SMOKING , STALLING, OIL SMELLING I'M AT HOME AGAIN. BMW DEALER SERVICE IS REFUSING TO PAY FOR A PLASTIC CAP BILLED TO ME RELATED TO RECALL FUEL PUMP LEAK THEY DENIED AND WERE FORCED TO FIND BY ME. SEE ATTACHMENT. BMW WANT EXCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE (3) YEAR DELAYED REPAIR OF FUEL PUMP.. ISSUES CAUSING PRESENT RELATED ISSUES TODAY 6/2/2019 WERE IN THE PAST THEY USED MY WARRANTY COVERAGE TO REPAIR DAMAGES THEY CREATED BEFORE FINAL CAR FAILURE AND MY STRANDED FROM 5PM / 11:30 MIDNIGHT AT 70 YEARS OLD ON A DARK HIGH WAY.. MY EXTENDED WARRANTY HAS PAID FOR ALL ENGINE ISSUES,1414,00 ..NOW THEY WANT TO MAKE A DEAL 700.00 TO REPAIR PLASTIC CAP COVER , THE SAME PROBLEM BEFORE FUEL PUMP RECALL. I WAS WITHOUT (MY ) CAR FOR (13) DAY CALLING, GOING BACK TO SERVICE MANAGER FIRING ADMISSION OF RECALL. MY STRESSING, PERSISTENT STOCKING TO REPLACE FUEL PUMP HURT MY HEALTH. BEGINNING WITH CORPORATE BMW IN 2016/ DELAY, 2017/ ENGINE ISSUES AND YEARS / MONTHS OF RENTALS... REPLACING PAN, SOME GASKET LEAKS WITH ENGINE CLAIMING THEY REPLACED THE PUMP. PROBLEMS CONTINUED UNTIL 5/3/2019 AND I'M STRANDED, LIVING WITH A MUSCULAR DISEASE IN THE HEAT AT 82 DEGREES ON HIGH WAY AND (2) POLICE OFFICERS STOPPING, FAILED TOWING COMPANY TOWED CAR TO MY HOME, EMBARRASSING ... 5/4/2019 SAT MORNING TOWING FROM MY HOME USING MY EXTENDED WARRANTY WHO LOST MY KEYS AT 400.00, LOST HOOK TO TOW CAR AND THE HOOK COVER NOTICED AFTER (13) DAY PUMP REPAIR PICK UP OF CAR.. 300.00 ..I'M STUCK AT HOME WITH THE SAME UNRESOLVED PART OF THE ISSUE.
Jul 01, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
1 complaint
I HAVE HAD SEVERAL PROBLEMS. 1. BOTH HEAD LIGHTS BECAME FILLED WITH CONDENSATION/WATER. I TOOK IT TO A BMW DEALERSHIP. THEY PERFORMED A BMW DIAGNOSIS. I WAS TOLD THAT THE MOST LIKELY CASE WAS THE COLD AIR. THEY CHECKED FOR EXCESS AIR LEAKS IN BOTH HEAD LIGHTS BUT DID NOT FIND EXCESS AIR LEAKS. (SEE ATTACHED STATEMENT) THEY ALSO REPLACED A GASKET, OIL FILTER HOUSING. THE OIL FILTER HOUSING WAS ALLOWING OIL TO LEAK OUT FROM THE ENGINE 5.8. THEY PERFORMED REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT OF THE OIL FILTER HOUSING GASKET AND WASHED DOWN THE ENGINE OF THE OIL RESIDUE. THE INCIDENTS WERE DIAGNOSED AND REPLACE ACCORDINGLY ON JAN. 24. 2019. JUST RECENTLY, ABOUT 5 DAYS AGO TODAY, MY CAR STARTED MAKING A WEIRD LOUD NOISE LIKE A GARBAGE TRUCK MAKES WHEN IT GOES FROM STOP TO STOP. IT MADE THAT SOUND WHEN DRIVING, AS WELL AS WHEN PARKED WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING. AT THE SAME TIME, I WAS NO LONGER ABLE TO OPEN MY TRUCK WITH NEITHER THE INSIDE BUTTON OR MY KEYS. I TOOK MY CAR TO A REPAIR SHOP THAT WAS CLOSE BY. THE OWNER USED TO WORK FOR BMW SERVICE CENTER AS A MECHANIC BEFORE STARTING HIS OWN BUSINESS. STRANGELY, THE CAR DID NOT MAKE THE SOUND IN HIS PRESENCE ALTHOUGH IT WAS LEFT RUNNING. I LEFT HIS SHOP AND WAS HEADING HOME WHEN SUDDENLY I GOT A RED ERROR MESSAGE WARNING ME THAT THE ENGINE HAD OVER HEATED AND THAT I SHOULD DRIVE SLOWLY AND/OR PULL OVER AS OVER HEATING COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO CATCH ON FIRE. THE MESSAGE ALSO SAID THE VEHICLE NEEDED COOLANT. I PURCHASE THE COOLANT ACCORDING TO THE MANUAL, BUT THE CAR OVERHEATED ONCE AGAIN WHEN I BEGAN TO DRIVE IT. I ALLOWED IT TO COOL DOWN AND DROVE IT HOME. I POPPED THE HOOD AFTER IT COOL DOWN AGAIN AND NOTICED A GREASY/OILY DARK BROWN SUBSTANCE IN COOLANT/RADIATOR HOLE. FROM WHAT I READ, IT'S A BLOWN HEAD GASKET. I ONLY HAVE 74963 MILES ON MY 2011 535I BMW. ALL SERVICES ARE UP TO DATE. MY NEXT SERVICE ISN'T DUE FOR 4000 MILES 03/2020 *AS INVALID VIN *JB
May 29, 2019
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE MAKE TURNS WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AXEL MAKES POPPING NOISE AND STEERING WHEEL JERKS VIOLENTLY. TOOK TO SHOP THEY SAID NOTHING FOUND WRONG WITH CAR. CV AXEL REPLACED ON BOTH SIDES PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS.ALSO NOT EVEN 10K MILES THE CAR WENT THRU 2 BELT TENSIONER CAUSING THE DRIVE BELT TO SNAP/TEAR.
Dec 01, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD POPPING SOUND FROM THE CENTER OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER AND NOTICED OIL DRIPPING FROM THE OIL PAN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVE SHAFT AND OIL PAN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE CV JOINT FRACTURED, WHICH CAUSED THE DAMAGE TO THE OIL PAN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V067000 (POWER TRAIN) AND THAT THERE WOULD BE NO ASSISTANCE WITH HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
Sep 28, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY AND MY ENGING CUT OFF ON AND THE CAR WOULD NOT START NOR GO INTO ANY GEAR TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT MY CAR MIGHT BE ON A RECALL LIST BECAUSE IT JAS REACH OVER 70000MI NOW I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO TO
Aug 08, 2018
STRUCTURE
1 complaint
OCCASIONALLY DRIVER'S DOOR CANNOT BE UNLOCKED AND OPENED FROM INSIDE USING REGULAR DOOR LATCH, THUS TRAPPING THE DRIVER IN VEHICLE. DOOR WILL HOWEVER UNLOCK IF THE LOCK/UNLOCK BUTTON ON THE DASH IS PRESSED. THIS HAPPENS ABOUT ONE IN EVERY EIGHT TO TEN TIMES OF OPENING THE DOOR.
Dec 26, 2017
SUSPENSION,WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I US. WHILE DRIVING OVER 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE. THE CONTACT REMOVED HIS FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO BRING THE SPEED DOWN TO 30 MPH, BUT THE SHAKING BECAME AGGRESSIVE. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE SHAKING CONTINUED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT HE HEARD A CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM THE WHEELS, BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE IF IT WAS THE FRONT OR REAR WHEELS. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL NHTSA TO FILE A COMPLAINT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,712.
Aug 15, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
THE SRS PASSENGER MALFUNCTION LIGHT IS TURNING ON. I'VE NOTIFIED BMW AND HAVE SHOWN THEM THAT THERE IS AN OPEN RECALL ON MY CAR BUT THEY HAVE REFUSED TO ACKNOWLEDGE MY CAR HAS BEEN AFFECTED.
Jan 10, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. OTHER VEHICLE GOING SOUTHBOUND CROSSED OVER MEDIAN STRIP OF HIGHWAY, HIT THREE CARS GOING NORTHBOUND, MINE WAS THIRD CAR TO BE STRUCK. OFFENDING CAR DID A 360 IN FRONT OF ME, I SLOWED TO ABOUT 25 AND HE MOVED INTO ME. I STRUCK HIS REAR PASSENGER SIDE CORNER. I HAD FRONT END DAMAGE OVER $5K. NO AIRBAG, BUT DEFAULT MESSAGES AND AN AIRBAG ICON CAME ON THE VIDEO SCREEN AND THE FRONT INSTRUMENT PANEL. IT STATES "DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIRBAG OR RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION." *JS
Dec 03, 2014
AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING AT AROUND 20 MPH WITH A FRIEND OF MINE SITTING ON THE PASSENGER SEATS AND THE CAR SYSTEM TELLS ME "PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM MALFUNCTION. CONTINUE TO WEAR SEAT BELT." I CHECKED ONLINE AND ITS BECAUSE SENSORS FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM ARE MALFUNCTIONING. THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM IN ALL BMWS SINCE 2006. I READ ONLINE THAT IT REOCCURS FREQUENTLY AND THAT I WILL HAVE TO PAY AT LEAST $1200 TO REPAIR IT IF I AM OUT OF WARRANTY. I WILL HAVE TO PAY ATLEAST $150 FOR DIAGNOSTICS. I STRONGLY FEEL I SHOULD NOT BE THE ONE PAYING FOR BMWS MISTAKE AT ANY GIVEN TIME. BMW HAS RECALLED AROUND 200,000 CARS AFFECTED BY THIS PROBLEM AND HAVE EXTENDED THE WARRANTY PROGRAM FOR 10 YEARS FOR THE AFFECTED CARS. THIS IS A SERIOUS LIABILITY ISSUE. INCASE I AM IN AN ACCIDENT TOMORROW AND THE AIR BAGS ARE NOT DEPLOYED, IT COULD LEAD TO THE LOSS OF ONE'S LIFE. I URGE BMW TO LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. MY CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT, NEVER IN FLOODS AND NEITHER IN FIRE. I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO INCIDENTS WITH THE CAR. I HAVE A RECALL FOR THE VANOS BOLTS THAT AFFECTS THE ENGINE AS WELL AND I STILL HAVE NOT HEARD FROM BMW. INCASE THE BOLTS GO OFF THE ENGINE WOULD LOSE POWER AND IT COULD LEAD TO A UNFORTUNATE CIRCUMSTANCE. THESE BOTH ISSUES ARE LIFE THREATENING AND NEEDS TO BE FIXED RIGHT AWAY. I REQUEST YOU TO URGENTLY LOOK INTO THE MATTER. *TR
Oct 22, 2014
STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A RATTLING NOISE. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD PREVIOUSLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME BOLT WAS LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FOR RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V176000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING).HOWEVER, THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,431.
Aug 26, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 40 MPH AND MY CAR JUST DIED ON THE STREET AND CHASSIS STABILIZATION LIGHT CAME ON.. HAD TO RESTART CAR 7-8 TIMES TO BE ABLE TO MOVE INSIDE PARKING LOT. *TR
Jul 18, 2014
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP THERE IS A VERY NOTICEABLE THROTTLE RESPONSE LAG OF OVER 1 SECOND BEFORE THE VEHICLE STARTS MOVING . IF YOU ARE NOT AWARE OF THIS BEHAVIOR WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD WHEN PULLING INTO OR OUT OF INTERSECTIONS. IT IS AS IF THE VEHICLE DOES NOT KNOW WHICH GEAR TO USE AND TRIES TO START OUT IN SECOND GEAR, THEN WHEN THE CAR DOESN'T START MOVING THE DRIVER PRESSES THE ACCELERATOR DOWN FURTHER UNTIL FINALLY THE SOFTWARE IN THE COMPUTER DECIDES TO DOWNSHIFT INTO FIRST GEAR AND THEN THE CAR TAKES OFF LIKE A ROCKET, WHICH IS ALSO VERY DANGEROUS IF YOU ARE NOT EXPECTING IT. *TR
Jun 10, 2013
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE DRIVE TRAIN WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD CALL HER AT A LATER DATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,945 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 35,000. UPDATED 4/1/13 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING, THE DRIVETRAIN, ENGINE MALFUNCTION, AND LOW BATTERY LIGHTS ALL ILLUMINATED. THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED. ON THE SECOND OCCURRENCE, THE DRIVETRAIN LIGHT ILLUMINATED, THE VEHICLE PUT ITSELF IN NEUTRAL AND REDUCED SPEED. THE CONSUMER PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT AND THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE CONSUMER REPEATEDLY ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE BUT, WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. REPLACED HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP, AGAIN. UPDATED 04/09/2013 *JS
Jan 29, 2013
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
2011 BMW 535 X-DRIVE PULLS TO THE RIGHT AFTER GOING STRAIGHT FOR A LITTLE WHILE, VERY SIMILAR TO ALL THE OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT 2011 5-SERIES BMW. ALSO JERKING FORWARD AFTER CRUISING AT A LOW SPEED WITH A SLIGHT ACCELERATION PEDAL MOVEMENT. 2 BMW DEALERSHIPS I VISITED ARE CLUELESS HOW TO FIX IT. ALTHOUGH SOME OWNERS (ACCORDING TO ONLINE FORUM DISCUSSIONS) WERE LUCKY TO FIX IT WITH A SPECIAL S/B PROCEDURE ISSUED BY BMW. BUT BMW DOES NOT INFORM ALL THEIR AUTHORIZED CENTERS PROPERLY ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. AND IF YOU ARE UNFORTUNATE ENOUGH TO GET INTO ONE OF THOSE UNINFORMED DEALERSHIPS YOU WILL GET A "NORMAL" EXCUSE ETC., MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO ALIGN THE CAR, REFUSAL TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM- ANYTHING BUT FIXING THE CAR PROPERLY. *TR
Aug 27, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THERE IS A VERY NOTICEABLE DELAY WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP BEFORE POWER IS DELIVERED TO THE WHEELS. THIS HAS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS IMPLICATIONS IN SITUATIONS WHERE THE NEED FOR POWER DELIVERY IS IMMEDIATE. *TR
Nov 09, 2011
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THERE ARE TWO MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH MY 2011 528I AUGUST10 BUILD. THE FIRST IS THE PULLING TO THE RIGHT THAT THE CAR HAS HAD SINCE DAY ONE. I TOOK IT TO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THEY WERE COMPLETELY OBLIVIOUS TO THE PROBLEM. AFTER SOME PERSISTENCE THEY DECIDED TO CHECK THE CAR OUT. THE STRUTS WERE ROTATED AND SOFTWARE UPDATED AND NOW "DRIVES STRAIGHT". THE CAR DRIVES STRAIGHT FOR MAYBE 25 FEET BEFORE THE CAR STARTS TUGGING HARD RIGHT EVERYTIME. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE SHOP AND THEY SAID THAT THERE WAS NOTHING MORE THEY CAN DO AND IT IS ALL "WITHIN TOLERANCE". THIS IS A POTENTIALLY VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE SERIOUSLY ADDRESSED. THE SECOND ISSUE IS THE INITIAL LAG IN ACCELERATION WHEN PRESSING THE GAS PEDAL. WHEN AT A DEAD STOP OR CRUISING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, YOU HAVE TO FLOOR THE CAR TO FINALLY GET IT TO DECIDE WHICH GEAR TO START IN. THIS ACCELERATION LAG CAN BE A COUPLE OF SECONDS AND WHEN PULLING OUT IN TRAFFIC A COUPLE OF SECONDS CAN MEAN ALOT. I HOPE BMW ADDRESSES THESE ISSUES OR I WILL BE FORCED TO SELL MY CAR AND NEVER LOOK BACK. *TR
Aug 10, 2011
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THERE ARE 3 MAJOR ISSUES. 1. VEHICLE TENDS TO VEER TO THE RIGHT. FEELING IS QUITE LIKE A VEHICLE THAT HASN'T BEEN ALIGNED FOR A WHILE. 2. THE MOST DANGEROUS. UPON ACCELERATION AND/OR AT LOW SPEED, THE VEHICLE RANDOMLY JERKS FORWARD WITHOUT ANY NOTICE- MAKING IT TOO LATE FOR THE DRIVER TO SLAM THE BRAKES. IF YOUR VEHICLE IS STANDING THREE FEET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, YOU CAN EASILY CRASH AND REAR END INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF YOU. AND OF COURSE, YOU WILL BE SUED FOR NOT KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE. THIS CAN EASILY CAUSE SOME SERIOUS INJURIES. 3. VEHICLE WOBBLES AS IF THE TIRES WERE NOT BALANCED. THERE ARE CLEARLY UNKNOWN DEFECTS THAT CAN NOT BE LOCATED. TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL BMW DEALER, THEY KEEP ASCRIBING IT TO "NORMAL" CHARACTERISTICS AND THEY KEEP INFORMING ME THAT BMWS ARE BUILT THAT WAY, THEY ARE NOW SPORTIER. HOWEVER, TO ANY NEW OWNER, IT IS NOW DEADLIER. THE LOCAL BMW DEALER ALSO STATE UNLESS THEY VEHICLE DOESN'T INFORM THEM ABOUT THE ISSUE THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING. ITS MORE LIKE, UNTIL SOMEONE DOESN'T SUE THEM IS WHEN THEY WILL DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT. BMW SERIOUSLY NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE IMMEDIATELY BEFORE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT BEGINS AGAINST THEM.
Aug 06, 2011
STEERING,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I PURCHASED MY 2011 550I IN JANUARY OF 2011. TWO WEEKS AFTER ACTUALLY GETTING THE CAR ON THE ROAD I NOTICED THE VEHICLE VEERS TO THE RIGHT. I TOOK THE CAR BACK IN AND THE DEALERSHIP STATED THEY PERFORMED AN ALIGNMENT. CAR STILL PULLS TO THE RIGHT IN ADDITION TO NOW I HAVE A LOUD WHINING NOISE AT 2000 RPMS. THE CHIEF MECHANIC HAS HAD MY CAR FOR TWO WEEKS NOW AND CANNOT IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS A LOT OF LOUD CREEKING NOISES COMING FROM MY ROOFTOP LINER. THE ENTIRE HAD TO BE REPLACED TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE ACCORDING TO THE DEALERSHIP BUT I DON'T HAVE MY CAR BACK YET DUE TO THE WHINING ISSUE BEING UNRESOLVED. THE VEERING RIGHT ISSUE SEEMS MOST COMMON AMONG ALL COMPLAINTS AND IS WHY I DECIDED TO LOG A COMPLAINT. *TR
Jun 14, 2011
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
TWO SAFETY ISSUES WITH MY 2011 BMW 535I: 1- STEERING: THE STEERING WHEEL PULLS TO THE RIGHT. IT ALSO CANNOT BE CONTROLLED IF ANY WIND IS BLOWING. I HAVE TO SLOW DOWN JUST TO KEEP IT CENTERED. 2- TRANSMISSION: THE THROTTLE IS INITIALLY NON-RESPONSIVE FROM STOP OR LOW SPEEDS, THEN SUDDENLY IT JERKS TO THE FRONT, ALMOST HITTING THE CAR INFRONT OF ME. *TR
Apr 22, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
I BOUGHT A 2011 BMW 535I ON NOVEMBER 30, 2010. ON DECEMBER 4, 2010, I EXPERIENCED CAR TROUBLE. THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION, AND REDUCE POWER WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. THE CAR SHUTDOWN COMPLETELY, BUT NOT BEFORE SHAKING VERY SHARPLY. THIS ALL OCCURRED IN ABOUT 15 SECONDS, WHILE I WAS DRIVING. BMW RESPONSE WAS "SAFE MODE". ON DECEMBER 9, 2010 THE VEHICLE WAS BEING REPAIRED AGAIN FOR THE SAME ISSUES, THEY REPLACED A FUEL SENSOR. ON DECEMBER 30, 2010, THE CAR WAS BEING SERVICED AGAIN, THEY REPLACED THE HIGH AND LOW FUEL PUMPS. AFTER BEING DRIVEN HOME BY THE SERVICE MANGER OF BMW JUST TO INSURE THAT THE CAR WAS FIXED, IT BROKE DOWN AGAIN ON HIM ON DECEMBER 31, 2010. THEY REPLACED THE LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AGAIN, THE SECOND TIME IN TWO DAYS. THEY RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO ME ON JANUARY 13, 2011. ON MARCH 17, 2010 THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AGAIN FOR LONG CRANK TIME, AND FOR NOT START SOMETIMES AT ALL. I AM ALSO A PREVIOUS OWNER OF RECALLED 335, WHICH I TRADED FOR THIS VEHICLE. OUT OF THE FIVE TIMES THAT THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICE, TWO OF THOSE TIMES IT BROKE DOWN WHILE IN TRAFFIC COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, ONCE WHILE ON A FREEWAY. THIS VEHICLE IS DANGEROUS. I WOULD ASK THAT THE NHTSA TAKE THIS MATTER SERIOUSLY. THERE ARE MANY MORE COMPLAINTS LIKE THIS ON BIMMERFEST.COM, AND ALSO THE INTERNET. BMW WILL NOT RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. THEY ARE PLAYING WITH MY FAMILY'S LIFE, OTHER BMW OWNERS, AND OTHER MOTORIST THAT OCCUPY THE ROADS WITH BMW CUSTOMERS. THIS VEHICLE IS A HAZARD. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN OCCURRING FOR ALMOST FIVE YEARS NOW. MY OPINION AS A MULTIPLE BMW OWNER IS THAT BMW IS OPERATING WITH MALICE AT THIS POINT. PLEASE YOU ALL ARE OUR ONLY HOPE! *TR
Mar 23, 2011
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
2011 BMW 335I CONVERTIBLE. NAVIGATION SYSTEM CONSTANTLY ALMOST ALWAYS TAKES YOU TO THE WRONG PLACE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS IN THAT IT CAN TAKE ME TO VERY DANGEROUS AND DEADLY PLACES. BMW SHOULD BE MADE TO MAKE THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM WORK ACCURATELY OR REPLACE THE SYSTEM WITH ONE THAT WORKS. IT FAILS TO FIND LOCATIONS WHICH ARE EVEN IN THEIR OWN PROVIDED "POINTS OF INTEREST"!!! THIS NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS TOO DANGEROUS FOR US TO USE. WE DON'T WANT TO RISK OUR LIVES IN MIAMI, FL AND ALL OTHER UNKNOWN PLACES WHICH YOU MAY ENTER INTO THE EQUIPMENT. AFTER ALL THAT IS WHAT THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS FOR - TO FIND PLACES YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE THEY ARE!! I HAVE CONTACTED MY MIAMI DEALER (SOUTH BMW MOTORS) AND IG BURTON BMW DEALER IN MILFORD, DE. IG BURTON SAID THEY FIXED IT BUT IT WAS NOT FIXED AND I NOTIFIED THEM IMMEDIATELY. NEITHER DEALER CARES ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, IT SEEMS. THANK YOU FOR MAKING BMW CORRECT THIS DANGEROUS SITUATION WITH THEIR EQUIPMENT. *TR
Sep 30, 2010
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I PURCHASED 2011 MODEL BMW 535I IN AUGUST 2010. THERE ARE 3 CIGARETTE LIGHTER POWER OUTLETS INSIDE THE CAR AND ELECTRICITY IS SUPPLYING ALL THE TIME REGARDLESS OF WHETHER VEHICLE IS BEING LOCKED OR NOT. IF I USE ACCESSORIES LIKE GPS, CHARGER, COFFER WARMER ETC. AND LEFT IN THE LOCKED VEHICLE UNDER SUMMER SUN COULD REALLY BE A FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE CONTACTED TO BMW CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND LOCAL SERVICE ASKING TO REWIRE TO STOP POWER SUPPLY WHILE ENGINE IS STOPPED OR/AND VEHICLE IS LOCKED BUT THEY REFUSED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I HAVE ANOTHER COMPLAINT REGARDING THE STEERING LIKE OTHER OWNERS WHICH IS THAT VEHICLE IS PULLING TO THE RIGHT ALL THE TIME AT ALL SPEED. I'D LIKE TO REQUEST NHTSA TO ORDER BMW TO FIX THOSE PROBLEMS ASAP AS A RECALL! *TR
Sep 14, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
I BOUGHT A 2011 BMW 535I 3 WEEKS AGO. UPON DRIVING ON LOCAL STREETS, THE CAR STOPPED ABRUPTLY FROM 30MPH TO 0MPH. MY CAR HAS UNDER 2000 MILES ON IT. STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION, WITH "FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTION", AND "ENGINE MALFUNCTION" ON THE ONBOARD DASH. I HIT MY HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN THIS OCCURRED. I WAS ALSO CARRYING A 5 GALLON SQUARE CONTAINER OF WATER THAT WAS CAPPED AND SEALED IN THE TRUNK. DURING THE ABRUPT STOP OF THE CAR, ABOUT 1/2 A GALLON OF WATER SPILLED INTO THE TRUNK. AFTER BEING TOWED TO SHELLY BMW AND TALKING TO THEM THE NEXT DAY, THEY SAID IT WAS MY FAULT AND THAT THE WATER SHORTED OUT THE COMPONENTS IN THE TRUNK. #1. THE WATER SPILLED INTO THE TRUNK AFTER THE CAR ABRUPTLY STOPPED. #2. I WAS ALMOST REAR-ENDED BY THE CARS BEHIND ME WHEN THE CAR WENT FROM 30MPH TO 0MPH. THE CAR DID NOT STALL AND SLOWLY COME TO A STOP....IT BASICALLY LOCKED UP AND STOPPED....CAUSING ME TO HIT MY HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL. SHELLY BMW IS NOW TELLING ME THAT I HAVE TO PAY $2600 TO REPAIR/REPLACE THE MODULES THAT ARE DAMAGED. #3. THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED ON JULY 26, 2010. #4. IRVINE POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS DISPATCHED TO THE SITE TO MAKE SURE THAT I WAS NOT HIT FROM OTHER CARS AS I SAT IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION FOR 1.5 HOURS WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK. I AM CONSIDERING SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE. THIS ISSUE IS ALSO FILED WITH BMW NORTH AMERICA IN WHICH I AM STILL WAITING FOR THEM TO CONTACT ME. *TR
Jul 29, 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2011 BMW 535i have?
The 2011 BMW 535i currently has 262 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2011 BMW 535i?
The most common problems reported for the 2011 BMW 535i are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2011 BMW 535i problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2011 BMW 535i comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - BMW 535i
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