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Service bulletins for the 2011 BMW 535i

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

383 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

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Bulletins, newest first
6510092018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B65 10 09 dated March 2013. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT CIC head unit: Vehicle Position Is Missing or Incorrect on Navigation Map. The vehicle position is missing or incorrect on the navigation map. The navigation system integrated in the Car Information Computer (CIC) is not calibrated correctly.
6505092018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); EQUIPMENT. This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B65 05 09 dated July 2009. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT CIC Headunit: Navigation System Road Map Usage. INFORMATION The Car Information Computer (CIC) began replacing the Car Communication Computer (CCC) on vehicles with option 609 in September of 2008. This change affected the navigation system road map data support process and the warranty spare parts processes for the CIC. For the US market, all vehicles come pre-loaded from the factory with the latest navigation system road map database version that was available at the time of vehicle production. Therefore, no physical copy of the navigation system road map data media DVD set or USB stick is placed in these vehicles at the Vehicle Distribution Center (VDC). NOTE: Additionally, all replacement CIC parts come with a pre-loaded version of the current available navigation system road map database installed. A set of DVD copies of the navigation system road map database, CIC NAVI Road Map North America PREMIUM, is shipped to all BMW centers through the automatic tool shipment program with each release of a navigation system road map database. IMPORTANT: Additional copies or earlier NAV road map database versions cannot be ordered individually! Therefore, please take special care to archive the CIC NAV road map DVD sets! The NAV road map data on the DVD set can also be installed into the Network Attached Storage (NAS). From there, it can then be installed onto the CIC in the vehicle, using the Integrated Service Technical Application for Programming (ISTA/P). For installation of the navigation system road map data media DVD set onto the Network Attached Storage (NAS), please contact your ISPI Next Administrator. In addition to this procedure, it is also possible to download the NAV road map data on the DVD set directly to the hard disc drive (HDD) integrated in the CIC by inserting the DVDs one by one into the CIC internal DVD drive. It will take approxim
3407142018-11-13. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES. "SUBJECT Carbon Ceramic Brake Noise. INFORMATION ""M"" vehicles are designed for high-performance, spirited driving. To accommodate this type of driving profile, a braking system which exceeds the standards for handling heavy brake forces, extreme temperatures, and excellent stopping power at high speeds is required. ""M"" vehicles can be ordered with the optional ultra high-performance braking system, featuring perforated carbon ceramic brake discs designed for circumstances similar to those encountered on racetracks. The carbon ceramic brakes were designed to improve braking efficiency, and dramatically increase braking performance along with a significant reduction in weight. When developing the carbon ceramic brake system, the main focus was on braking performance for the sporty-minded driver, while accepting the comfort limitations of functional noises at slower speeds and when coming to a stop. Please inform the customer that the carbon ceramic brake system's functional noises (squealing/honking), are a known characteristic for this type of material, and are only a small trade-off for the improved braking performance. These functional noises have no effect on the performance, operational reliability and durability of the brakes. Part replacement will not provide a remedy for the noise; this is a known characteristic of the high-performance brake system. More information on the performance and operation of these brakes can be found in the Owner's Manual under ""M carbon ceramic brake."" WARRANTY INFORMATION Not applicable."
1238142018-11-13. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM; ENGINE. SUBJECT N20, N26, and N55 Engines with Injector Electrical Faults. Any of the following symptoms could occur simultaneously with injector electrical faults stored in the DME: z After the engine is turned off for a short time, it can no longer be started; however, the starter motor turns. z The engine starts but immediately cuts off. z The engine runs erratically or lacks power. z The Service Engine Soon light (MIL) may be on with several poetential faults stored. The DME has malfunctioned due to an internal fault.
1210152018-11-13. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE. "SUBJECT N63: CBS Oil Service Conversion in ISTA/P. The CBS oil service conversion being performed for the N63 Customer Car Package and timing chain check (SI B11 16 14) does not work correctly. It does not change the interval to the desired 12 months/10,000 miles for the vehicles listed above in the specified production ranges. The ""Conversion, oil service 12months/15,000km/10,000 miles"" is working properly for all other N63 vehicles produced after these dates. Incorrect coding data in the current ISTA/P version"
1209152018-11-13. Service bulletin. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL; VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL. "SUBJECT N55: Slight Surging at Constant Speeds when Accelerating Very Lightly. The vehicle shudders or surges slightly while driving at constant speeds and applying the accelerator very lightly. This symptom is most easily reproduced under light loads when the current fuel consumption is approximately 3448 miles per gallon. The current fuel consumption can selected and monitored in the instrument cluster while driving (the ""fuel consumption, current"" option is set to active in the settings menu). No relevant fault will be stored in the DME memory. DME software; the fuel injection rate under these conditions is too close to the minimum calculated threshold."
1204152018-11-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE. SUBJECT DME Internal and Valvetronic Faults Set at Cold Ambient Temperatures. The Service Engine Soon light (MIL) can be illuminated with the erroneous internal and Valvetronic faults stored in the DME. The MIL will only come on if the fault has been detected on two (or more) consecutive drive cycles. The following fault codes may be stored in the DME: E Seriesz 36AE - DME, internal fault, Valvetronic: Current implausible One or more of the following secondary faults may also be stored: z 2DE2 - Valvetronic, actuation, voltage phase: Line disconnection z 2DE3 - Valvetronic, actuation, volt phase: Line disconnection z 2DE4 - Valvetronic, actuation, volt phase: Line disconnection F Seriesz 1F0905 - DME, internal fault, Valvetronic: Current implausible One or more of the following secondary faults may also be stored: z 135B10 - Valvetronic, actuation, voltage phase: Line disconnection z 135B11 - Valvetronic, actuation, volt phase: Line disconnection z 135B12 - Valvetronic, actuation, volt phase: Line disconnection Engine performance and driving characteristics are not affected. DME software diagnostic sensitivity.
1201152018-11-13. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. SUBJECT N20 and N26 Differential Pressure Sensor Fault 195002 Stored in DME. The Service Engine Soon (MIL) light is on with the following differential pressure sensor fault stored: z 195002 - Differential pressure sensor, tank vent valve, electrical: Short circuit to ground During engine operation, vibration and movement of the sensor can damage the pin contacts of the harness connector, or cause a break in the wiring.
1106142018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE; EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. "This Service Information bulletin and attachment supersedes SI B11 06 14 dated January 2015. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT N63 Engine: Customer Care Package. INFORMATION This bulletin outlines the Customer Care Package program that has been designed exclusively for BMW vehicles with the N63 engine. Vehicles with the N63 high performance engine are engineered with EfficientDynamics that provides fuel economy without compromising on its ""class leading"" power and performance. To ensure these engines keep delivering the ultimate performance, we have designed this Care Package that includes a 6 point check, and if necessary, the replacement of one or more of the following powertrain components: z Hot-Film Air Mass Sensors z PIEZO High Pressure Fuel Injectors z Engine Vacuum Pump z Fuel System Low Pressure Sensor/Feed Line z Fresh Air Intake Turbo Seals z Crankcase Ventilation Lines (Hoses) This engine care package also includes a multi-point inspection of the vehicle, including tire pressures, fluid levels, safety and convenience features. The N63CCP is NOT a mandatory Technical Campaign or Recall (per the authorities). It should only be completed based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the customer's schedule. Complete all other applicable open Campaigns per the DCS Warranty inquiry and the Key Reader. Perform all recommended, due or qualifying ""time-based"" maintenance service task items as directed by the Key Reader/ISPA Light application. When eligible, also perform the procedure described in SI B61 30 14: 12-Volt Battery Replacement together with performing the N63 Customer Care Package. After completing all the necessary repairs, the vehicle needs to be road tested for 30 minutes to assure the highest standard of performed repairs (Please see ""Warranty Information"" section below)."
1102152018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV). SUBJECT Deleting DME Adaptations After Crankshaft Sensor-related Repairs. The erroneous misfire faults are stored, and the Service Engine Soon light (MIL) illuminates The ISTA Service Function to delete the DME adaptations fails to clear the crankshaft incremental wheel adaptation, depending on the current DME software version. This adaptation must be cleared whenever the following repairs are made: 1. Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor 2. Replacement of the incremental sensor wheel on the crankshaft 3. Replacement of the crankshaft 4. Replacement of the crankcase (block) with pistons 5. Replacement of the engine assembly Due to slight tolerance differences with the new replacement hardware and the original learned crankshaft position, values could cause cylinder balance calculation errors by the DME. DME software (the incremental wheel adaptation cannot be cleared)
B3304162018-11-13. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES. Delivery Stop: Replace Rear Differential.
B1111152018-11-13. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM. Service Action: Replace the Thermostat. The Service Engine Soon light is on with corresponding fault codes in the DME for the engine thermostat.
B3404142018-11-05. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC; SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC. Diagnosis of Compound Brake System Complaints in M Vehicles This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI 34 04 14 dated December 2014. Designates changes to the bulletin. INFORMATION 1.Visible cracks are caused by high thermal stresses during rapid heating and cooling of the brake discs. Braking from high speed with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F) increases the likelihood of cracks to form. These surface hairline cracks are usually spread over the entire brake disc friction area, and have no negative influence on the durability or braking performance. The rotors should not be replaced only for their appearance reasons.When performing routine service on the brake system (pad replacement due to wear), the brake discs should be replaced if surface cracks are found to be greater than 13 mm, or if the brake disc thickness is below the minimum thickness. Always replace brake discs in pairs (per axle). Install new brake pads when replacing discs. By doing this, the service life of the friction pad surface is increased, and an even material loss is ensured. 2. Vibrations and/or steering wheel torsional vibrations during braking are caused by applying the brakes on discs with minimal to heavy corrosion. These vibrations are most noticeable when braking from high speeds with cold brake components (less than 212 degrees F), and will diminish with normal everyday operation. Parts replacement is not required. 3.After high brake loads, running noises can be heard when applying the brakes, and may also be heard to a limited extent after the brakes are released. (See the note in the Owner's Manual). These noises are reduced during normal everyday operation, due to further erosion of the brake pad friction lining. Visible surface cracks or craterlike recesses on the brake pad surface are caused by a minor difference in the material of the pad lining, which will decrease with further operation and should not be replaced due to their appearance.
B2704152018-11-05. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE; WHEELS. Shudder from the Driveline on Vehicles with xDrive. There is a shudder or vibration from the driveline when taking off from a stop, or when accelerating at highway speeds. CAUSE Possible multiple root causes related to the engine, wheels & tires, suspension components or internal wear on the clutch plates of the xDrive transfer case.
B1116152018-11-05. Service bulletin. ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM. ?N20 and N26 engine: Smoke from Exhaust when Starting a Cold Engine. When starting a cold engine, blue smoke can be seen emitting from the exhaust tailpipe for approximately 10-20 seconds. No turbo charger boost faults are stored and no drivability issues can be detected. Engine oil leakage into the induction system and/or the turbo charger assembly.
B6510152018-11-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). NAV Road Map Installation Using USB Stick. INFORMATION The Navigation road map can be installed onto the head unit in the vehicle using a USB stick connected to the USB connector in the center console in the vehicle. ? 32GB USB stick is necessary ? Desired NAV road map version can be retrieved from the HDD-Update console PROCEDURE 1. Copy the desired NAV road map from the HDD-Update console onto a 32GB USB stick. Refer to Attachment. 3. When prompted, enter the 20-digit enabling code. 4. Start the NAV road map installation and follow the on-screen instructions. WARRANTY INFORMATION Not applicable. ATTACHMENTS View PDF attachment B651015_Attachment.
B5116152018-11-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS. "Affected vehicles in dealer inventory must not be retailed or delivered until the label is removed. Vehicles at ports of entry will be remedied prior to dealer delivery. On affected vehicles, there is an incorrect label regarding the appropriate engine oil. Affected vehicles can be identified with a ""Vehicle Comment"" in the DCS Warranty Vehicle Inquiry or ISPA Light. Remove the engine oil label (located in the front or rear of the hood)."
B3301152018-11-05. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE; POWER TRAIN. Cracking in Rear Differential Mount Bushing. During inspection, the rear differential mount in the rear axle support shows signs of cracking.
B1302152018-11-05. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP. "?SI B13 02 15July 2015 Fuel SystemsTechnical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B13 02 15 dated May 2015. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT Service Action: N63 Replace High-Pressure Fuel Pumps. The high-pressure pump may fail, resulting in an engine malfunction warning and reduced engine output. This Service Action involves F01, F02, F04, F07, F10, F12, F13, E70, E71, and E72 vehicles with the N63 engine produced from January 1, 2011 to December 1, 2011. Vehicles which require this Service Action to be completed will show it as ""Open"" when checked either in the ""Service Menu"" of DCSnet (Dealer Communication System) or with the Key Reader. CAUSE The high-pressure pump quantity control valve may fail."
B6604152018-11-05. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:TRUNK LID; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LOCK. Trunk Lid Does Not Operate with Remote After Programming. If the customer profile is assigned to only unlock the driver door after programming with ISTA/P 3.55.x, the trunk will not open with the remote. CAUSE Coding error in CAS (Car Access System) for trunk locking
B6509152018-11-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT. HU-H: Headunit Resets Intermittently or Permanently. The HU-H (Headunit-High) resets intermittently or permanently. ? The display is inoperative and there is no audio output ? Automatic system start-up after a couple of seconds CAUSE Software error in the HU-H
B6103142018-11-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Check Control Messages Related to Battery Charge During Cold Ambient Temperatures. On cold days with an outside ambient temperature of less than 15°F, customers may notice a check control message related to the battery that is displayed on the instrument cluster and the control information display. Under these conditions, the vehicle starts. Various power management faults can occur. The check control message (ID 229) is caused by a heavily discharged battery. ? The check control message is triggered when the current state of charge (SoC) of the battery approaches the minimum SoC that is required to start the vehicle (start capability limit). ? In low outside ambient temperatures, the start capability limit of the vehicle is higher. Therefore it takes more energy from the battery to start a cold engine. ? Without the early warning of the check control message, the current state of charge would drop below the start capability limit and the vehicle would not start. ? The vehicle's intelligent power management system actively takes measures to increase the charge of the battery, such as increasing idle speed and reducing or shutting down certain electrical consumers.
B3602152018-11-05. Service bulletin. TIRES:VALVE; WHEELS. Valve Stem Replacement with Wheel Electronics. INFORMATION The valve stems are single-use only, and must be replaced every time the wheel electronics are replaced. If you loosen the nut (1), you must replace the valve stem. Failure to replace the valve stem will lead to a pressure leak. The proper repair procedure can be found in REP 3611533. Not applicable. [ Copyright (c)2015 BMW of North America, Inc. ] Page 1 of 3 Page 1 of 1 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015 Page 1 of 3 https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi-bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/232...6/4/2015
B3104122018-11-05. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION; STRUCTURE. Groaning Noise from Front Axle. Groaning noises are heard from the front axle area while maneuvering at low speeds (e.g., parking lot maneuvers) or over uneven road surfaces. CAUSE Hydraulic mount in tension strut
B1302152018-11-05. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. Service Action: N63 Replace High-Pressure Fuel Pumps. The high-pressure pump may fail, resulting in an engine malfunction warning and reduced engine output.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.