2013 BMW 528XI
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 30 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2010 | 10 |
| 2012 | 53 |
| 2013 | 54 |
| 2014 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
57% of complaints: engine — 31 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2013 BMW 528XI. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not able to be restarted and was towed to a local dealer.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240712
Engine failure due to faulty timing chain or oil pump while driving
NHTSA ODI report, 20231030
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BMW 528XI. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE MESSAGE "DRIVE TRAIN MALFUNCTION" DISPLAYED AS THE VEHICLE DECELERATED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180710
28% of complaints: power train — 15 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
DRIVE TRAIN MALFUNCTION: DRIVE MODERATELY ERROR, CAR LOST POWER AS DRIVING AND WENT INTO LIMP MODE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170511
20% of complaints: electrical system — 11 distinct reports on file.
9% of complaints: exterior lighting — 5 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle has had no accidents or front impacts but has extensive moisture/condensation build up in both front headlamp housings. I intermittently receive a "adaptive headlight failure "warning in cold temperatures until the vehicle warms up.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240127
9% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 5 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear reflex reflectors, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Campaign 15V188000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2013 BMW 528XI — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (31 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 15V188000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2013 BMW 528XI reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 BMW 528XI?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 BMW 528XI have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.