2008 BMW 535I electrical system problems
15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the electrical system on the 2008 BMW 535I — 20% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Driving family down the highway around 65 mph. I loose all power in the cabin. The car starts throwing all warning lights, abs, steering,sway control, transmition, etc. Engine still running would not shift into neutral had to use e brake to pull over then it wanted to keep going had to turn car off…”
filed Aug 5, 2018
“Insulation crumbling on all wiring inside both headlight (driver and passenger sides) units resulting in malfunctioning headlights, running lights, and marker lights. Unfortunately, a common problem and a huge safety concern. Issue is exacerbated but not caused by heat. Insulation on wiring to…”
filed Mar 1, 2018
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
B510819 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 16, 2024The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information…
B611305 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jan 11, 2024Customers may state that the alarm system (DWA) is not active after locking their unoccupied vehicle. Depending on the vehicleâ  s equipment and settings, no acoustic or optical confirmation (folding the…
B653423 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Nov 22, 2023Discharged Battery Energy Diagnosis Must Be Performed: The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on…
B611305 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Oct 1, 2020Power Reduction FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2 A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The "Service Engine Soon" (MIL) lamp is illuminated and engine power reduction is perceived. This situation can occur after driving for…
B110208 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 1, 2020
Electrical System problems in other 535I years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 535I | 7 | 30% |
| 2014 535I | 8 | 27% |
| 2013 535I | 13 | 34% |
| 2012 535I | 9 | 17% |
| 2011 535I | 17 | 15% |
| 2010 535I | 7 | 12% |
| 2009 535I | 2 | 3% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2008 BMW 535I
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.