2008 BMW 135I used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Fuel pump failure16 owner complaints, usually around 10,000 miles

  Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.

• Airbag warning light5 owner complaints, usually around 44,100 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Sudden loss of power5 owner complaints, usually around 24,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 20V017000, Jan 15, 2020
• Electrical systemRecall number 19V579000, Aug 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 16V071000, Feb 5, 2016
• Electrical systemRecall number 13V044000, Feb 7, 2013

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Class action settlement: N54/N54T/N55 electric engine coolant pump .May 1, 2021
• Power Reduction, FC2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC2A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Fault: The ?Service Engine Soon?...Sep 1, 2020
• Power Reduction, FC 2A82 Intake VANOS and/or FC 2A87 Exhaust VANOS Camshaft Faults are Stored in...Jul 9, 2019
• Takata air bag recall-related short-term alternate transportation and consequential repairsApr 1, 2019
• Takata class action settlementJan 1, 2019
• In an effort to improve the completion rate on Takata air bag recall affected vehicles; BMW NA has...Feb 1, 2018

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.