If we told you that a regular BMW can be made more powerful than an E92 M3, would you believe us? Although the BMW 335i is well-known among BMW and auto enthusiasts, a lot of drivers are still unaware of its existence.
It’s a model built on an innovative idea that didn’t quite live up to the standards and discontinue, but it’s still a valuable addition to the automobile industry. Here, you’ll find information about the worst model years for the BMW 335i, its best models, and the most typical problems with this vehicle.
We have compared BMW 335i model years and will tell you which years to avoid and which models are worth considering if you are looking to buy a used car.
BMW 335i years to avoid include 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2013; they are considered the worst. The best years for BMW 335i include 2007, 2009, 2015, 2015, and 2016. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
BMW 335i Years To Avoid
The model’s manufacturing years are one of the most important factors to look at while purchasing. Even though BMW has made steady upgrades throughout the run, it’s best to proceed with caution if you’re looking at a particularly early model year.
4. Worst Year: 2008 BMW 335i (4.05 Rating)
Some of the issues that were brought to light in prior years’ releases have been fixed in the 2008 and 2009 models. However, the 2008 model still has some issues, but they aren’t as common or serious as they were with the 2007 version.
There have been 56 reports of issues with the High-pressure fuel pump on RepairPal, making it the most frequently reported issue with this model. Noise or vibration due to the AC system being low on refrigerant is also the leading cause of failure for this model.
Common Problems:
- Serpentine belt breakage
- Turbo rattle
- The ABS Pump stop working
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
3. Worst Year: 2013 BMW 335i (4.03 Rating)
The number of complaints reported for the BMW 335i increased in 2013. A huge number of vehicles 840,000 were affected by one of the major recalls due to Driver’s frontal air bag inflator may rupture. The most complaint about this model is defective seatbelts and airbags which cause serious injuries in many conditions.
Many drivers complain about the drivetrain and faulty electrical system. Some drivers notice the noise and vibration in the vehicle due to low refrigerant and engine rattling sound while driving.
Common Problems:
- Rod bearing worn out
- Engine smoking
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 58 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
2. Worst Year: 2011 BMW 335i (4.0 Rating)
When looking at BMW 335i cars to avoid, the 2011 model year is just marginally worse than the 2010 model. At 47,000 miles, the BMW 335 2011 has 48 engine problems reported to the NHTSA. Another major issue that drivers report to NHTSA is their seat belts and airbags.
Common Problems:
- The push/Start button is not working
- The cell light comes on every 15 days
- Clogged intake with soot
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 133 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 3.5 expert ratings.
1. Worst Year: 2010 BMW 335i (4.0 Rating)
The BMW 335i 2010 is the worst model ever made in the entire lineup. It replaced the N54 in 2010 with the N55 engine. The high-pressure fuel pump in this model year is faulty, therefore it can’t supply the engine with any fuel.
Check Engine Light with Code P30FF and Engine Rattle have been reported by numerous individuals. This year, like in previous years, low refrigerant levels in air conditioning systems might cause unwanted noise and/or vibration. Considering these factors, it’s clear that you should avoid it at all costs.
Common Problems:
- Service engine light
- High-pressure fuel pump
- Check Engine light on
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
BMW 335i Years To Buy As Used
Certain years of the BMW 335i are particularly recommended if you’re looking for a reliable car. In these latter years, the original design has been perfected by eliminating flaws.
Now Let’s take a look at the most reliable BMW 335i years. These would be the ones with the fewest customer complaints and the greatest sales.
Related: 15 MOST Reliable BMW Models | 2023
5. Best Year: 2009 BMW 335i (4.16 Rating)
A new iDrive system debuted in 2009 model of BMW 335i. The original iDrive has a reputation for being cumbersome and difficult to operate. We like how there aren’t any extra screens or an iDrive, as it keeps things straightforward and easy to use.
However, the iDrive system in 2009+ models is vastly superior if you’re looking for such a vehicle. In 2009, only LCI-style bodies were available. Later 2009 variants of the 335i also included M Sport upgrades.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- Edmunds: 4.9/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
4. Best Year: 2007 BMW 335i (4.18 Rating)
The BMW 335i was the first vehicle to debut with the N54 engine in 2007. Since it was the first year the 335i was produced, the 2007 model year had some problems but proven to be one of the best years to buy as used.
Oil coolers are inconsistent on certain vehicles, and this is not a problem unique to 2007. If you plan on pushing the N54 to its limits, an oil cooler is a necessity.
The stock oil cooler isn’t great, but installing a new one is simple. Don’t let the fact that the oil cooler is missing from a superb 2007 335i prevent you from purchasing it. Just prepare to set up an oil cooler.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- Edmunds: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
3. Best Year: 2012 BMW 335i (4.28 Rating)
The 2012 version of the BMW 335i saw no major redesign changes. This model has been rated at 23/33 mpg by the EPA for city/highway fuel efficiency.
However, the 335i’s cutting-edge features shone through even in this iteration. The 3-liter engine provides exceptional performance and fuel economy, marking a breakthrough in efficiency. Suspension and steering technology might have been upgraded using available choices.
The 335i’s in-car technology was still top-notch, with a navigation system that delivered accurate and attractive maps. Facebook and Twitter feeds, as well as Google search and navigation, are wonderful connected features.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
2. Best Year: 2015 BMW 335i (4.28 Rating)
The 2015 BMW 335i Series is an excellent choice for a first luxury vehicle. It’s one of our favorites in this segment for a number of reasons, including its dynamic driving style and posh interior.
For 2015, BMW will only make small modifications to the standard and available features of the 335i Series. The 335i has a 3.0L turbo-six engine that produces 300 horsepower. Twin-scroll turbocharging is used in all three engines, making them feel considerably larger than they actually are.
This xDrive all-wheel-drive vehicle accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 9 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
1. Best Year: 2016 BMW 335i (4.42 Rating)
Even though it’s a newer model year, the 2016 BMW 335i is still a best choice if you’re looking for a reliable car. Due to the fact that many of their original owners are still driving them, used models of these models may be harder to come by. A 2016 BMW 335i, especially one that has been in service with a fleet or other, can be a great option.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
Common BMW 335i Problems
Listed below are several customer-reported issues with the BMW 335i, along with an explanation of why each is problematic.
Engine Difficulties
The engine of the BMW 335i periodically overheats under normal driving conditions, albeit this is not the only issue with the car’s powertrain. Even if the cooling system is functioning normally, the engine may still overheat for other reasons, some of which we’ll get to in a minute.
Issues with the Cooling System
There are also issues with the cooling system, such as leaks and the consumption of coolant in the absence of leaking seals. In warmer locations or on a hot summer day, those problems might be disastrous if you don’t notice your coolant levels are approaching low.
Issues with Electrical Components
Consumers contemplating the 2007 BMW 335i should be aware of the fact that the car’s most serious electrical problem occurs quite seldom.
Electrical components near the BMW 335i’s headlight have been known to spark on rare occasions. The flames can be devastating, and on some occasions, the car has been written off due to the fire itself, even when the fire could have been extinguished.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) is often at the root of engine issues in a BMW335i. In the event of an HPFP malfunction, the engine may be difficult to start, the vehicle’s performance may suffer, and the “check engine” light may illuminate.
Wastegate Sound
This is, by far, the most serious problem with the N54 twin-turbo engine. The “rattle” you’re hearing is the result of the arm or rod not working properly due to normal wear and tear. The engine is making rattling noises, there is a drop in power, and smoke is flowing out of the tailpipe.
FAQs
Q: Is BMW 335i reliable?
A: RepairPal rates the BMW 335i’s reliability at just 2.0 out of a possible 5.0, placing it last among 31 similar premium midsize automobiles. The BMW 335i has a poor reputation for reliability.
Q: Is it expensive to maintain a BMW 335i?
A: BMW 335i owners take their cars in for maintenance 1.2 times a year, more than the average of 0.6 times for luxury midsize cars and more than double the average of 0.4 times for all vehicle makes and models. The total cost of ownership is significant, and so are repair bills.
Q: How long will the BMW 335i last?
A: Since the warranty can be prolonged, 335i can serve you well for up to seven years. Don’t exceed 100k in mileage within that time period. Ideally, by then, everything that is going to fail will have broken, and you’ll be able to take advantage of the extended warranty.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of BMWs or want to buy one, knowing which model years have been the best for the BMW 335i will help you make a wise and reliable purchase. Mid-cycle updates and later generations, especially those made from 2011 onward, are highly recommended if you’re shopping for a BMW 335i.
While the BMW 335i model years to avoid may have issues for some people, it’s important to remember that not everyone will have the same problem. You can improve the odds of buying a dependable BMW 335i by spending money on one that has been well-maintained and is acquired from a trustworthy dealer.
