Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Cadillac CTS
Performance Oriented:
Focus on driving dynamics and powerful engine options
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced comfort features, and sophisticated technology
Engineering Excellence:
Renowned BMW engineering and build quality
Value Proposition:
Combines sporty driving characteristics with luxury and advanced technology, often at a competitive price point within its segment.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive mechanical, electrical, bodywork, and diagnostics
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Engine Management (DME), Transmission (Automatic - ZF 8HP70), Drivetrain (Rear Wheel Drive, Integral Active Steering - optional)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: Double Wishbone, Rear: Multi-link), Brakes (Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Ventilated Discs, ABS, DSC, DTC), Steering (Electric Power Steering - EPS), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting Systems (Halogen, Xenon, LED), Instrument Cluster, Audio and Navigation Systems (iDrive), Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Climate Control (HVAC), Parking Assist, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change Intervals, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid - if applicable), Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes (OBD-II), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Interpretation, Component Testing, Wiring Diagram Analysis, Live Data Stream Interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Engine Component Overhaul (Pistons, Valves, Bearings), Transmission Removal and Installation, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Special Procedures:
Software Updates and Programming, Key Fob Programming, Wheel Alignment Specifications, Torque Specifications for critical fasteners, Component Calibration
Depth:
Expert-level, covering detailed component removal, installation, diagnosis, and specifications. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Twin-Scroll Turbocharged
Displacement:
2,979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
315 hp @ 5,800 - 6,000 rpm
Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 1,300 - 4,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, Secondary Air Injection
ECU Type:
Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Type:
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP70)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (less common for 535i in North America for 2013)
Sport Mode:
Yes, with Steptronic manual shifting capability
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW P/N 83 22 2 148 578 or equivalent ZF Lifeguard 8 Fluid
Length:
192.4 inches (4,887 mm)
Width:
73.0 inches (1,854 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1,466 mm)
Wheelbase:
116.9 inches (2,970 mm)
Front Headroom:
38.7 inches (983 mm)
Rear Headroom:
37.7 inches (958 mm)
Front Legroom:
40.3 inches (1,024 mm)
Rear Legroom:
35.3 inches (897 mm)
Trunk Volume:
14.0 cubic feet (396 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 3,900 lbs (1,724 - 1,769 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,894 lbs (2,220 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for most configurations)
Electronic Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Driver Assistance Options:
Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Active Cruise Control, Collision Warning
Airbags:
Front, Side-Impact, Knee Airbags, Head Protection System (HPS)
Seat Belts:
Pretensioners, Load Limiters
Chassis Design:
High-strength steel structure, crumple zones
System Name:
BMW iDrive (Professional Navigation System optional)
Display:
Central Control Display (10.2 inch high-resolution screen)
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth, USB Audio Interface, AUX Input, optional Enhanced USB and Bluetooth with Smartphone Integration
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality
Parking Aid:
Front and Rear Park Distance Control (PDC), optional rearview camera and surround view cameras
Telematics:
BMW ConnectedDrive services (optional, may require subscription)
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS), typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to iDrive service indicators.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Air Filter:
Recommended every 30,000-45,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Recommended around 60,000 miles for the N55 engine.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts)
N55 Engine Common Issues:
Water pump and thermostat failures (often electronic control issues), PCV valve failures leading to oil consumption or rough idle, Vanos solenoids, Turbocharger wastegate rattle.
F10 Chassis Common Issues:
Front suspension components (control arms, bushings) wear, Power steering fluid leaks (EPS system), Electrical gremlins often related to battery or grounding issues, iDrive system glitches.
Legacy:
BMW, founded in 1916, is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, luxury, and engineering.
F10 Generation:
The F10 generation (2010-2016) of the 5 Series marked a significant redesign, featuring more advanced technology, a larger chassis, and updated powertrains, including the potent N55 engine.
535I Positioning:
The 535i traditionally represents the mid-range performance offering in the 5 Series lineup, balancing power and efficiency.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in other BMW facilities globally.
Ward Auto World Car Of The Year:
While the specific 2013 535i may not have individual awards, the F10 generation of the 5 Series was generally well-received and lauded for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology, often appearing on 'best of' lists.