2008 BMW 535XI
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
- 71
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Electrical system
None on file
None on file
37% of complaints
Complaints per year
2008: 71 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 1 |
| 2008 | 71 |
| 2010 | 15 |
| 2011 | 35 |
| 2012 | 18 |
| 2013 | 4 |
| 2014 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Electrical system
37% · 26 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Wednesday July 25TH, 2018, as I was getting ready to leave work, I started my car which was parked in my company's underground garage and the interior became engulfed with smoke. I turned the car off and got out to check the engine.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-07-26
Also filed under Seats
My car caught fire while parked and not running.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-03-12
Consumer writes in regards unresolved fire safety issues with a 2008 BMW 535XI *tgw the consumer stated on feb 14, 2012, the battery was replaced. However, six days later, a spark of fire and ball of smoke occurred as the consumer was driving.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-04-12
Also filed under Engine and engine cooling
Engine
23% · 16 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Car is over heating. Replace water pump and thermostat. Car still over heating. Bad water pumps.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-08-28
Also filed under Power train
Fuel/propulsion system
18% · 13 reportsAir bags
18% · 13 reportsExterior lighting
15% · 11 reportsShow complaint excerpts
the taillight, blinker and reverse light all went out and when I pulled the components out To check to see if the bulbs are burnt all of the bulbs are perfectly fine, but the aluminum pieces were sparking, and the whole component will not…
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-05-27
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
2008 BMW 535XI — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 26 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 16 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 13 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2008 BMW 535XI 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 2008 BMW 535XI?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 37% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2008 BMW 535XI have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.