1991 BMW 535I
Only 5 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 5
- Recalls
- 3
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1991
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1991: 5 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 1 |
| 1987 | 0 |
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 6 |
| 1990 | 2 |
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 0 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 0 |
| 2008 | 74 |
| 2009 | 71 |
| 2010 | 58 |
| 2011 | 112 |
| 2012 | 54 |
| 2013 | 39 |
| 2014 | 30 |
| 2015 | 23 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
2 of 5 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and cooling system.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving about 55 MPH vehicle stalled without prior warning. Consumer had taken vehicle to dealer a few times for the same problem. But problem is still there.
NHTSA ODI report, 2000-04-26
Power train
1 of 5 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
No summary listed for above vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2000-01-15
Electrical system
1 of 5 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing switch.
Air bags
1 of 5 total reports mentions: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
Airbag warning light came on because of a wire burning out. Dealer says it needed to be replaced. Shortly after wire was replaced, the warning light came back on. Dealer said it was the contact ring locking tab.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-08-17
Safety timeline
3 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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1996-09-30Air bags96V110000 The air bag contact ring locking tab located in the steering wheel assembly can break without warning.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the locking tab with one of a different design.
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1996-09-30Exterior lighting96V111000 The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "Brake lights off" Position or in the "Brake lights on" Position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.
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1999-03-31Engine and engine cooling98V178000 Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. A malfunction or failure of a coolant system component, such as a thermostat, water pump, or fan belt, can result in significantly increased coolant…
Remedy: Dealers will install a new design radiator cap to control pressure and provide greater coolant overflow in the event of overheating.
Buy-smart checklist
1991 BMW 535I — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 1 report on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 96V110000 · Air bags
- Recall 96V111000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 98V178000 · Engine and engine cooling
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 1991 BMW 535I 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 1991 BMW 535I?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1991 BMW 535I have?
- 3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.