When you think of BMW, you probably picture precision and luxury, thanks to German engineering. However, not all BMW models meet those high standards.
If you’re looking at a BMW 335i, there are certain years to avoid to dodge common issues. Specifically, the 2007 and 2008 models are known for their engine and cooling system problems.
So, what makes these years so troublesome, and how can you make sure your investment doesn’t come with unexpected problems? Let’s dive into the details that make newer models a safer choice.
Key Takeaways
- Steer clear of the 2007 and 2008 BMW 335i models because they have major engine and cooling problems.
- Models from 2007 to 2011 often have issues with the high-pressure fuel pump.
- The 2008 BMW 335i tends to have problems with the serpentine belt and turbo wastegate.
- The 2010 models frequently suffer from high-pressure fuel pump failures and engine stalling.
- Models made after 2009 with the N55 engine are usually more reliable.
Overview of BMW 335i Models
The BMW 335i, part of the 3 Series, is a favorite among drivers who love performance and luxury. This model is known for its powerful turbocharged engine and great handling, making it a top pick in its class.
Inside, it offers a comfortable and high-tech experience. However, be aware that the 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011 models have had some reliability issues. If you’re thinking about buying one, it’s better to look for models made after 2009 for better dependability and fewer maintenance problems.
This way, you can enjoy both great performance and longer-lasting quality.
Common 335i Reliability Issues
If you’re thinking about getting a BMW 335i, you should know that early models from 2007-2011 often have engine and cooling problems.
Another big issue is the high-pressure fuel pump, which can fail and cause the engine to stall unexpectedly.
These problems are especially common in the 2008 model, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
Engine and Cooling Problems
Many BMW 335i models from 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011 have engine and cooling system problems that hurt their reliability. Common issues include N54 engine oil consumption and overheating.
The cooling system often has problems like radiator leaks and water pump failures, which can cause serious engine damage if not fixed quickly. Other problems like rattling noises from rod knock and turbo wastegate issues further reduce performance and driving enjoyment.
Repairs can be expensive, with cooling system fixes costing up to $1,000. If you’re thinking about buying a BMW 335i from these years, be aware of these potential problems to avoid high repair costs.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump
If you have an early BMW 335i with the 2007-2010 N54 engine, you might run into problems with the high-pressure fuel pump. Signs of this issue include losing power, the engine running rough when idling, and the check engine light coming on. BMW has tackled this problem by offering extended warranties and better parts in newer models. Replacing a high-pressure fuel pump can be pricey, sometimes costing over $2,000 depending on your car model and labor costs. To avoid these issues, keep up with regular maintenance and use good-quality fuel.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Power Loss | Reduced engine performance |
| Rough Idling | Unstable engine operation at idle |
| Check Engine Light | Indicator for potential fuel pump issues |
| Cost | Replacement can exceed $2,000 |
Regularly checking your fuel system is crucial to prevent high-pressure fuel pump failures.
Impact of Engine Types
When thinking about buying a BMW 335i, the type of engine is really important.
The older models with the N54 engine often have problems with using too much oil and issues with the turbo wastegate, meaning they need a lot of careful maintenance.
On the other hand, the newer N55 engine models are usually more dependable, perform better, and have fewer problems.
N54 Engine Problems
The N54 engine in the BMW 335i is well-known for having problems with oil consumption and lubrication. You might also see sudden increases in engine temperature and even overheating, which can affect how well the engine runs. To keep the N54 engine performing well, it needs regular and careful maintenance. Many drivers have complained about these ongoing issues, showing that the N54 engine can be quite frustrating. Knowing about these problems can help you decide which BMW 335i models to avoid.
Here’s a quick overview of N54 engine problems:
| Problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Oil Consumption | Uses a lot of oil, needs frequent top-offs |
| Lubrication Issues | Might not get enough lubrication |
| Overheating | Sudden temperature spikes |
| Reliability | General concerns from drivers |
| Maintenance | Needs careful and regular upkeep |
N55 Engine Improvements
After dealing with the issues of the N54 engine, you’ll find the N55 engine to be much more reliable and efficient.
Launched in 2009, the N55 engine has a single twin-scroll turbocharger, which improves response and fuel efficiency. Unlike the N54, the N55 engine is known for being durable and solves common problems like high oil consumption and turbo wastegate failures.
Drivers of BMW 335i models with the N55 engine have fewer maintenance and engine issues. Choosing a 335i with the N55 engine over the earlier N54 models offers a more reliable and hassle-free experience.
The N55 engine is a big improvement in engineering, making it a better choice for long-term reliability.
Problems With N54 Engine
BMW 335i models from 2007 to 2010 with the N54 engine often have recurring issues like burning oil and turbocharger failures. Common problems you might face include a rattling noise from the turbo wastegate and failures of the high-pressure fuel pump.
Valve cover problems can lead to oil leaks, and overheating can cause serious engine damage if not fixed quickly. These issues usually lead to higher repair costs because of the complex engine parts and specialized maintenance needed.
The N54 engine is known for needing more maintenance and being more expensive to repair compared to newer models. Knowing about these problems can help you decide if a BMW 335i from these years is right for you.
Issues in 2007 Model Year
Many 2007 BMW 335i owners face ongoing engine problems, especially with the N54 engine’s high oil consumption and overheating. A common issue is a faulty water pump that can break down and cause the engine to overheat, leading to expensive repairs.
Radiator leaks make the cooling system problems worse, increasing the risk of overheating. Faulty fuel pumps are another big problem, often causing the engine to stall and lose power.
You might also hear rattling noises, like rod knock and issues with the turbo wastegate, which need to be fixed and can be costly. With these common problems, owning a 2007 BMW 335i can be expensive, with cooling system repairs alone costing up to $1000.
Concerns in 2008 Model Year
The 2008 BMW 335i has several common problems you should know about. Many owners report frequent issues with the serpentine belt, which can lead to sudden breakdowns.
Power steering loss and problems starting the car are also frequent complaints that can make driving less enjoyable.
Engine rattling, especially during cold starts or when slowing down, is another annoying issue.
Drivers often experience loss of power and poor engine performance as well.
Turbo engine wastegate problems can also occur, particularly if you drive the car hard, and these issues can get worse over time.
If you’re thinking about getting a 2008 BMW 335i, keep these potential reliability problems in mind.
2009 Model Year Drawbacks
When looking at the 2007-2011 BMW 335i models, be aware of some big problems that can affect how reliable they are and how much you’ll spend on maintenance.
These years are known for issues like engine rattling, cooling system problems, and bad fuel pumps. Owners often face high repair bills for things like radiator leaks and turbo system failures.
Make sure to check the cooling system, watch for oil consumption, and look at the condition of the turbo wastegate when checking out these models.
It’s a good idea to consider models made after 2009 for better reliability and longer life since they have fewer of these common issues. Knowing about these problems can help you avoid headaches and surprise expenses.
Troubles in 2010 Model Year
In 2010, the BMW 335i had big problems with its fuel pump, which caused the engine to stall and made the car accelerate poorly. Many owners complained about the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) breaking down often, leading to unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. This year had more HPFP failures compared to other years, which hurt the car’s performance and reliability.
Here are the main issues you might face with the 2010 BMW 335i:
- Frequent HPFP Failures: Many owners had repeated problems with the high-pressure fuel pump.
- Engine Stalling: Bad fuel pumps often made the engine stop suddenly, which was unsafe.
- Costly Repairs: Fixing the fuel pump repeatedly was expensive and annoying.
It’s best to avoid the 2010 model to dodge these problems.
2011 Model Year Challenges
If you’re looking at the BMW 335i, it’s good to know that the early years like 2007 to 2009 and 2011 have some big issues. These models often have engine problems like using too much oil and overheating.
On top of that, the fuel pumps tend to fail a lot. These problems can mess with how the car runs and can also be costly to fix.
Common Engine Issues
The 2007 BMW 335i has some common engine problems that you should be aware of. These issues can be expensive to fix and may affect how reliable your car is. Here are the main problems:
- High Oil Consumption: The engine uses up oil faster than usual, so you’ll need to add oil more often and might need to fix internal parts.
- Overheating: The car tends to overheat because of problems with the cooling system, like broken radiators and water pumps, which can seriously damage the engine.
- Turbo Wastegate Issues: Although more frequent in newer models, early warning signs like rattling noises can mean future problems with the turbocharger.
It’s important to fix these engine problems quickly to keep your BMW 335i running well for a long time.
Fuel Pump Failures
BMW 335i cars from 2007 to 2010 often have problems with their high-pressure fuel pumps, causing the engine to stall and the car to accelerate poorly. If you have one of these cars, you might already know about this issue. Many owners find they’ve to replace the fuel pump a lot, which can be both annoying and expensive. Fixing it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500.
These fuel pump issues can really mess up how your car drives, so it’s important to fix them quickly. Luckily, BMW fixed these problems in later models, making them more reliable. If you’re thinking about buying a used 335i, it’s smart to avoid the 2007-2010 models because of their well-known fuel pump problems.
Cooling System Faults
Due to a tendency for radiator leaks and water pump failures, the 2007-2011 BMW 335i models often have cooling system problems. These issues can cause the car to overheat and even lead to engine shutdowns, so it’s important to address them quickly.
If you’re driving one of these models, keep an eye out for:
- Overheating – Often caused by radiator leaks or water pump failures.
- Low Coolant Levels – Check and refill regularly to prevent sudden engine shutdowns.
- High Repair Costs – Be ready for potentially expensive repairs for these cooling system issues.
Ignoring these problems can lead to long-term engine damage, so it’s important to stay alert and maintain your cooling system carefully.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failures
If you own a BMW 335i made between 2007 and 2010, especially those with the N54 engine, you should know that high-pressure fuel pump problems were common.
Signs of this issue include losing power, rough idling, and the check engine light coming on. These problems can hurt your car’s performance and can be expensive to fix, costing anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000.
Common Symptoms and Indicators
If your 335i has rough idling, misfires, or trouble starting, it might’ve a problem with the high-pressure fuel pump. These are common signs you shouldn’t ignore.
Here are some specific things to watch for:
- Check Engine Light On: A bad high-pressure fuel pump often makes the check engine light come on.
- Worse Gas Mileage: If you’re getting fewer miles per gallon, the fuel pump mightn’t be working right.
- Less Power: If your car feels weaker and doesn’t perform like it used to, the high-pressure fuel pump could be the issue.
It’s important to fix these problems quickly to avoid more damage and keep your car running safely.
Look out for these signs to keep your BMW 335i reliable.
Impact on Engine Performance
If you have a BMW 335i from 2007-2011, problems with the high-pressure fuel pump can really mess up how your engine runs. You might see the check engine light come on, and notice the car losing power, idling roughly, hesitating, stalling, or having trouble starting.
If you ignore these issues, things can get worse and cause serious engine damage. Switching to a more reliable fuel pump can help fix these problems and get your car running smoothly again.
It’s important to spot these signs early and take action to keep your BMW 335i in good shape.
Engine Rattling Problems
Rattling noises in your 2008 BMW 335i’s engine can really affect how well your car runs and how reliable it is. You might hear these noises when you start the car cold or when you’re slowing down, which can be pretty worrying.
Plus, these problems can make the check engine light come on, showing that something inside the engine needs fixing right away. Taking care of these issues quickly is key to keeping your BMW 335i running well for a long time.
Here are some important things to remember:
- Cold Starts: You’re likely to hear rattling noises most when you start the car cold.
- Check Engine Light: Rattling can turn this light on, letting you know there’s an issue inside.
- Timely Maintenance: Finding and fixing problems early can save you from expensive repairs later.
Pay attention to these signs to keep your BMW running smoothly.
Serpentine Belt Issues
In the 2007-2011 BMW 335i models, issues with the serpentine belt can cause sudden breakdowns and engine problems. Many owners, especially of the 2008 model, have reported that their serpentine belts break and even melt into the engine, causing a lot of damage.
Common signs of trouble include losing power steering, having trouble starting the car, and hearing unusual rattling noises when the engine is cold or when slowing down. These problems can leave you stuck without warning, which is really frustrating.
To avoid engine damage and expensive repairs, it’s important to regularly check and replace the serpentine belt. Keep an eye out for warning signs and talk to your mechanic if you think there’s a problem. This will help keep your BMW 335i running smoothly.
Turbocharger Concerns
Turbocharger problems in the 2007-2011 BMW 335i models, like wastegate issues and using too much oil, have been a big headache for many owners. These problems can lead to expensive repairs and even engine damage. Common signs include rattling noises, losing power, and poor acceleration.
Here are the main issues you might face:
- Wastegate Problems: Bad wastegates can cause rattling noises and make your engine perform worse.
- Using Too Much Oil: The turbochargers in these cars often use too much oil, which means you’ll need to top it off frequently and risk damaging the engine.
- Sudden Breakdowns: Turbocharger failures can happen without warning, leaving you stranded and facing big repair bills.
Regular maintenance can help with these turbocharger problems, but it won’t get rid of them completely.
Choosing Reliable Model Years
When picking a BMW 335i, it’s smart to avoid the 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011 models because they’ve known reliability problems. Instead, look at the 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2014 models, which tend to be more reliable.
Cars made after 2009 are generally better and might be a safer bet. Make sure to check the cooling systems, oil use, and condition of the turbo wastegate when inspecting these cars. These parts are crucial for the car’s life and reliability.
Keeping up with regular maintenance can also boost the performance of these newer models. By focusing on these points, you can make a better choice when buying a BMW 335i.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Bmw Z4, Bmw X5, Bmw X3 and Bmw X1. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
When looking for a BMW 335i, avoid the 2007 and 2008 models as they tend to have more problems.
Instead, consider the 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2014 models, which are generally more reliable.
Pay attention to the cooling systems, oil consumption, and turbo wastegate issues to avoid potential problems.
By choosing wisely, you can enjoy a smoother and more reliable driving experience.
