2008 BMW 535I
This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.
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 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 38 |
| 2014 | 30 |
| 2015 | 23 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
36% of complaints: engine — 27 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, WHEN WARNING MESSAGE OF "ENGINE HOT AND DRIVE MODERATELY" WAS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUCTIONAL PANEL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20201104
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE OUTSIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE COOLANT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20131021
WHILE DRIVING, THE CAR STOPPED ACCELERATING AND A TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION WARNING CAME UP ON. THE FAN ON THE ENGINE ALSO CAME ON VERY LOUD AND THERE WAS LOTS OF EXHAUSTED COMING OUT. I DROVE SLOWLY TO A SHOP.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180110
22% of complaints: exterior lighting — 16 distinct reports on file.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW 535I. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE OUTSIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE COOLANT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20131021
20% of complaints: electrical system — 15 distinct reports on file.
FIRE18% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 13 distinct reports on file.
12% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 9 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the tailli
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear lamp bulb carriers free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Campaign 13V407000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 BMW 535I — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (27 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 13V407000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2008 BMW 535I reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 BMW 535I is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2008 BMW 535I?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 36% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 BMW 535I 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.