BMW 1 Series Coupe Forum / 1 Series Convertible Forum (1M / tii / 135i / 128i / Coupe / Cabrio / Hatchback) (BMW E82 E88 128i 130i 135i)
 





 

View Poll Results: How reliable has your 135i been?
My N54 powered 135i has problems very frequently. I have to fix this car quite often 32 6.60%
My N54 powered 135i has problems somewhat frequently, but not overwhelmingly so. 51 10.52%
My N54 powered 135i has only had a few problems, just like any other car out there. 78 16.08%
My N54 powered 135i very rarely has a problem. The reliability issues with these cars is overstated. 71 14.64%
My N55 powered 135i has problems very frequently. I have to fix this car quite often. 17 3.51%
My N55 powered 135i has problems somewhat frequently, but not overwhelmingly so. 39 8.04%
My N55 powered 135i has only had a few problems, just like any other car out there. 79 16.29%
My N55 powered 135i very rarely has a problem. The reliability issues with these cars is overstated. 118 24.33%
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      06-20-2017, 04:35 PM   #67
tjswarbrick
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Quote:
Originally Posted by swagon View Post
Oh boy. And to think we have the same model year, color, and interior.

The future doesn't look very promising.
Your future just got less promising...
Mine (May 2011 build - VERY early N55) was just diagnosed with a failing HPFP. They're still diagnosing to confirm.
SO confused. Dealer says 13517616170 is latest/best part for my car. $860. ECS has that one, REMANUFACURED!, for $895, but says NEW $411 13517616446 is latest and greatest and most reliable. Tischer (GetBMWParts. I guess they're Silver Spring BMW now or some such thing) has the 446 for $300 but say IT's remanufactured. Want $628 for the 170 unit. They also say they're open 'till 6 online, but 5pm on voicemail. So no answer.

I have no idea how much my indy/mod/race shop wants for one yet. According to the DIY on N54Tech it's about a 45 minute job. We'll see.

They also mentioned my Oil Sensor is leaking into my wiring harness so the harness!?! will need replaced somewhere down the line. But didn't want to discuss replacing the sensor...

This thread is depressing. I'm going to do a little work, then read up on how much fun these things are to mod, and to drive! 'Cause they sure are.
I still wouldn't classify the amount of problems as "overwhelming", but I think they just reached the realm of worse than most cars out there. After 30,000 miles in my care (74,400 total on the clock) it's needed a brake sensor, the coolant reservoir, oil filter housing, and now HP fuel pump.
Flat caused by pothole and wiring harness splice caused by rat notwithstanding.
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      07-11-2017, 09:33 AM   #68
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N54 Preventative Maintenance at/after 100k miles

I'm a relatively new 135is owner (almost 10 months) and I maybe should've done more research before purchasing an N54/E82 with 121k miles. Needless to say I'm far from disappointed. The car has been an absolute blast to drive, it's handling is unlike any car I've driven in my life so far. Life before BMW was dull. Due to the recent issues I'd say my 135 is not quite as reliable as I would like, but she's just over the 100k mile hump and almost 10 yrs. old.

Now at 130k miles I'm trying to be a preventative BMW owner and determine what else could go wrong; I've been in the shop every 1-2 months since purchasing and based off service history I don't know what might be problematic in the coming weeks or months. I'm aware that BMWs have major issues in 10 yr. increments, my BMW of Nashville rep. (Kevin Dittler) says that my catalytic converter will need replacing and possibly inhibit my passing emissions testing in my county (TN).

I'm seeking experienced BMW owner suggestions/insight for preventative maintenance for 135is over 130k miles?

Service History:

Jan. 2016: Ignition Coil REPLACEMENT (6)
May 2016: HPFP REPLACEMENT
Jan. 2017: Rear Brake Pad, Sensor, Rotor REPLACEMENT
Mar. 2017: OFHG and Cooler Gasket REPLACEMENT
June. 2017: Vanos Solenoid Valve REPLACEMENT
July 2017: Water Pump and thermostat bled system REPLACEMENT

*aside from oil/filter change in Dec. 2012 there is no service history per Carfax reporting.
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      07-19-2017, 06:39 PM   #69
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You have a 135i not 135is, and it looks like you have done almost all of the maintenance you need. Only other things that may need attention are spark plugs (good for 60k miles) and belts/hoses (which may be good shape). For me, just brakes and tires alone make this a more expensive car to own but that should be much better for most drivers out there who drive normally.

For me, other than water pump I have had 0 issues with my '12 1er.
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      07-23-2017, 05:18 PM   #70
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
I know this goes against the popular opinion here but that's one of the reasons I buy my cars new. Don't want to inherit somebody's problems. Many people who buy used keep their car for a couple of years and then move on. Not me. I hang on to them as long as I possibly can. I realize it's more economical to buy used but I like to start with a clean sheet of paper.

I break them in properly and aggressively service them (1st oil change at 1200 miles, then 5K oil changes, etc). Professional detail a few times a year. I understand this costs me more but it's worth it to me. If my 1er was to get totaled today I'd probably buy a new M240i and keep it for as long as possible and treat it the same way.
Same philosophy here. Have a 09.135i: window issues early on, fixed under warranty. It didn't always open or close upon demand. One HPFP replaced. No other issues; however, I feel like it may just be a matter of time before other gremlins surface. Currently have ~46K miles. I'm torn between enjoying it more or getting rid of it. Sometimes it feels like playing 'German Roulette.'

I also have a 13.135is with 26K miles. No major issues, just a hood lever malfunction two weeks out of warranty--but they did the right thing and fixed it for free. Knock on wood. Again, I don't know when my luck will run out.

I have relatively low mileage on all my BMW's ( I also have a 98.mz3 with 67k miles: no issues--just worn parts) because I've always used another car for my daily driver. I've had a 'sacrificial' Taurus, and two Corollas for that purpose.

I'm thinking seriously of moving on to an M2 (fingers crossed for the GranCoupe version) in a few years and getting rid of the two 135's.

Last edited by m981addicts; 07-23-2017 at 05:25 PM..
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      08-22-2017, 06:36 PM   #71
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I've had a lot of issues with my n54. Seems like I'm in the minority tho
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      08-22-2017, 06:54 PM   #72
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2012 N55. Couple weeks ago; 75,500 miles. Water pump failed. Had that and thermostat replaced.
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      08-24-2017, 01:00 PM   #73
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I've had my 135i for about a year now and did new turbos, all gaskets and seals on the motor, injectors, coils, and spark plugs. Everything ls been running perfectly since I've done the maintenance. Keep in mind, I've been FBO running 18 psi for the last 6 months and not one hiccup. If you buy one properly maintained, you should be fine.
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      05-30-2019, 07:49 PM   #74
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Don't buy a used BMW, too expensive to maintain. It's just incredible BMW can't build a reliable car. My 2012 135i has 65,000 miles on it. I just spent $1,600 to replace the water pump, 10,000 miles ago I spent $3,000 stopping the radio from buzzing, dealer just told me they want $3,400 to replace oil filter housing gasket and oil pan gasket, then they will need to put dye in oil to find remaining leaks. Currently the sky is the limit to fix oil leaks. Apparently these oil leaks plus valve cover gasket leaks (another $1,800 problem) are common and require attention every 50 to 60k miles plus the water pump. I'm just besides myself right now. Why doesn't BMW fix these issues? Girl friend's Mazda 3 has 135,000 never had a problem, friends Lexus has 300,000 miles still going strong and doesn't leak a drop of oil. Never buying another BMW!
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      05-30-2019, 09:36 PM   #75
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GeneseeS4 View Post
Don't buy a used BMW, too expensive to maintain. It's just incredible BMW can't build a reliable car.
< ... snip >
Girl friend's Mazda 3 has 135,000 never had a problem, friends Lexus has 300,000 miles still going strong and doesn't leak a drop of oil. Never buying another BMW!
Sad thing is I get that. My E82 is also my last BMW... I'm thinking a new hardtop Miata
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      05-31-2019, 03:21 AM   #76
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My last car is a BMW... this BMW, if I'm lucky and nothing seriously bad happens.

Just over 45K miles, and I know some major repairs will be coming, and I'm ready, so have at it BMW! lol
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      05-31-2019, 09:47 AM   #77
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GeneseeS4 View Post
Don't buy a used BMW, too expensive to maintain. It's just incredible BMW can't build a reliable car. My 2012 135i has 65,000 miles on it. I just spent $1,600 to replace the water pump, 10,000 miles ago I spent $3,000 stopping the radio from buzzing, dealer just told me they want $3,400 to replace oil filter housing gasket and oil pan gasket, then they will need to put dye in oil to find remaining leaks. Currently the sky is the limit to fix oil leaks. Apparently these oil leaks plus valve cover gasket leaks (another $1,800 problem) are common and require attention every 50 to 60k miles plus the water pump. I'm just besides myself right now. Why doesn't BMW fix these issues? Girl friend's Mazda 3 has 135,000 never had a problem, friends Lexus has 300,000 miles still going strong and doesn't leak a drop of oil. Never buying another BMW!
My ex-wife sell Lexus. Do you want her contact info?
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So, that's it. I am doomed. There is no patch, no methadone, no substitute. Curse you BMW. Curse you and your seamless power delivery. Curse the incredible sense of road feel. Curse the comfort, the luxury, the envious looks from the masses. I am... hopelessly addicted.
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      05-31-2019, 09:52 AM   #78
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
My last car is a BMW... this BMW, if I'm lucky and nothing seriously bad happens.

Just over 45K miles, and I know some major repairs will be coming, and I'm ready, so have at it BMW! lol
Decided to keep mine too. At 67,000 miles I have replaced the OFHG, water pump (preemptively) and currently on the fourth set of tires. Getting ready to replace the serpentine belt and hardware in coming weeks.

I love this car.

Peace... Mack
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So, that's it. I am doomed. There is no patch, no methadone, no substitute. Curse you BMW. Curse you and your seamless power delivery. Curse the incredible sense of road feel. Curse the comfort, the luxury, the envious looks from the masses. I am... hopelessly addicted.
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      05-31-2019, 05:08 PM   #79
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mackeroni View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
My last car is a BMW... this BMW, if I'm lucky and nothing seriously bad happens.

Just over 45K miles, and I know some major repairs will be coming, and I'm ready, so have at it BMW! lol
Decided to keep mine too. At 67,000 miles I have replaced the OFHG, water pump (preemptively) and currently on the fourth set of tires. Getting ready to replace the serpentine belt and hardware in coming weeks.

I love this car.

Peace... Mack
Quote:
Originally Posted by Esteban View Post
My last car is a BMW... this BMW, if I'm lucky and nothing seriously bad happens.

Just over 45K miles, and I know some major repairs will be coming, and I'm ready, so have at it BMW! lol
I'm with you guys. I think I've had mine for about 3.5 years now and it's been great so far. There is a trade off to owning BMWs. You gain the positive driving dynamics, fun, comfortable, quality build. The flip side is some higher parts & repair costs. The reliability is on par with other cars I've owned except the Toyota's which are far more reliable but give up everything else I listed. Sport-luxury vs the utilitarian sheeple's car, take your pick.

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      05-31-2019, 05:10 PM   #80
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GeneseeS4 View Post
Don't buy a used BMW, too expensive to maintain. It's just incredible BMW can't build a reliable car. My 2012 135i has 65,000 miles on it. I just spent $1,600 to replace the water pump, 10,000 miles ago I spent $3,000 stopping the radio from buzzing, dealer just told me they want $3,400 to replace oil filter housing gasket and oil pan gasket, then they will need to put dye in oil to find remaining leaks. Currently the sky is the limit to fix oil leaks. Apparently these oil leaks plus valve cover gasket leaks (another $1,800 problem) are common and require attention every 50 to 60k miles plus the water pump. I'm just besides myself right now. Why doesn't BMW fix these issues? Girl friend's Mazda 3 has 135,000 never had a problem, friends Lexus has 300,000 miles still going strong and doesn't leak a drop of oil. Never buying another BMW!
Man, you got seriously ripped off, no wonder why you're so upset. I paid a total of 1000 for the water pump, oil filter housing gasket and oil pan gasket for parts and labor with a lifetime warranty on the pump. Going to the dealer is insane, they aren't the best mechanics (or they'd open their own shop) and they charge at least double what any indy does.
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      06-03-2019, 08:18 AM   #81
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My 2011 135I with DCT has been pretty reliable in the nearly 4 years that I have owned it after I bought it at 4 years old and 24,000 miles. I currently have ~38,700 miles on it.

The first small issue was that I lost a speaker in the drivers door that the dealer fixed under CPO.

My second issue (covered under CPO, best $50 I ever spent) was leaking transmission pan gasket and they replaced gasket, pan, bolts, fluid, mechatronix valve body and mechatronix seal.

Third issue was the water pump and thermostat at about 38,000 miles and the work was done by my indie for $1125 vs. $~1500 for the dealer.

Fourth issue was a blown charge pipe 3 weeks ago. I replaced it myself with an aluminum one. I honestly think I gained some power over the original restrictive one because the traction control appears to be a little more intrusive on the 1st to 2nd shift when in sport + mode.
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      06-03-2019, 02:21 PM   #82
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Lots

Really loved the car, but I had too many issues. I bought a used 2013 135i with like 38k miles on it. Had it for ~1 year and had the following repairs; Oil Leak, Coolant reservoir burst, evaporator replaced and a new transmission.

In total ~$21K in repair work done on the car. Thankfully I had aftermarket warranty. Now the car is available for sale on CarMax and I have a boring 3 series....
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      06-19-2019, 02:15 AM   #83
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Too much...

Charge Pipe
OFHG
Thermostat
Water pump
Coolant tank
AC Evaporator
Bad injector

All after warranty

Still get the vanos actuator error from time to time. Need to replace that soon too...
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      06-20-2019, 04:15 PM   #84
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Holy cow! As someone who is looking to buy a pre-loved 135, this is a depressing thread!
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      06-20-2019, 04:28 PM   #85
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 2WheelDave View Post
Holy cow! As someone who is looking to buy a pre-loved 135, this is a depressing thread!
Definitely needs more attention than a Camry, but then again, if you keep ears, and eyes open for problems early, it's really not too bad.
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      06-20-2019, 06:27 PM   #86
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 2WheelDave View Post
Holy cow! As someone who is looking to buy a pre-loved 135, this is a depressing thread!
That's why FCP Euro is my friend... all parts are covered with a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee.

As mentioned in the thread several times, it's not a Camry. Even my 2013 128i in comparison has had NO issues. It's the price we pay for BMW performance.

Even with all the issues I absolutely LOVE my car!
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      06-20-2019, 08:03 PM   #87
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I love my car...
That is all!
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      06-21-2019, 04:04 PM   #88
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2012 135i with 107k miles. Have had the following issues since owning the car (30k miles)

Water Pump *
Ac evap *
Valve cover gasket *
water leakage in trunk * (due to blackline tail install)
Charge pipe failure

* = covered by warranty/CPO

Lately car has been super reliable, just regular maintenance *knocks on wood*
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