[greenninja]

Looking for suggestions. Getting into my first F10 and price range that I am looking at is a 2011 535i or 2012 528i. I really don't want the 528i, only becuase I feel down the line I will want the power. The 2011 535i's I have been looking at have build dates of 4/10 and 6/10, nothing newer. I was looking through the forum and see there are a few suggestions to not purchase anything older then a build dates of 1/11. Should I be worried of a 2011 and just hold off for a 2012 535i? Then if thats the case, I should just stick with CPO and not private party. Just want to make sure I am covering myself. I really don't want to purchase a 3rd party warranty.

Also, seperate question I might end up lowering the car and changing the wheels (I might). I noticed some don't have the drive control (sport, sport+, comfort, comfort+) options. Anything I should or should not worry about when looking for a used one in regards to this option, do I really care for it? I perfer to have this option, but not sure if this is really needed. I am assuming that all 2011 535's have 8spd tranny's correct so the mpg won't really change.

Just so confused and excited at the same time! thx!

[Jack the Cat]

Well, I have a 2011 with build date 07\10. The only difference between the build dates earlier than 11/10 is those after that date have the combox option which provides greater iPhone integration. My F10 535 has been a terrific car. Great power, smooth ride, great performance and good economy. Don't know much about the modifications, but the basic car is great.

[kc1953]

Originally Posted by Jack the Cat

Well, I have a 2011 with build date 07\10. The only difference between the build dates earlier than 11/10 is those after that date have the combox option which provides greater iPhone integration. My F10 535 has been a terrific car. Great power, smooth ride, great performance and good economy. Don't know much about the modifications, but the basic car is great.

Make sure you do a thorough test drive if you purchase an early build 2011. It has been well documented that they suffered from a few quirks, including a tendency to pull to the right. This is well documented on this and other f10 forums. Do your research and buy with your eyes open.

[Mikeyh718]

Which other quirks? Just curious. I own a 535i 2011 build date of 4/10 and haven't had a problem so far. Would like to know what to watch out for if any at all.. Don't have a pull to the right problem.

[greenninja]

I did read about many forum users with 2011 have the "pulling right" problem. One of the users actually lemon'ed the car as well, not sure if it was 100% due to that. But some users, such as above say that have a early production date car with no problems.

I can't imagine if its a issue dealer won't fix, but hoping I don't run into that problem. Other then that, it seems that after doing much research there aren't any consistent problems, hopefully I am not missing anything. With that being said, I will make sure I do a proper test drive and make sure the car has no issues as far as I can see. Thank you for reminding me again!

I will tell you the combox option really bugs, since I am a heavy iphone user.

Also, seems like EDC (Electronic Damper Control) is the way to go if its available. I hear that most people that have this feature love it since it really changes the ride from the different modes.

If I add springs, will that affect EDC?

[OnlyTruth]

Originally Posted by kc1953

Make sure you do a thorough test drive if you purchase an early build 2011. It has been well documented that they suffered from a few quirks, including a tendency to pull to the right. This is well documented on this and other f10 forums. Do your research and buy with your eyes open.

It is not only early built 2011, 2013 loaners that i drove pull too. Good luck fixing that. I lemoned my car and am left with a feeling of hate to bmw of na that will not fade for a long time

[BigDeep1]

I would not buy anything built before 10/10. I actually made a post on Bimmerfest about how I think a 2013 528i is about as fun to drive as an 11 535i. Also search threads for what is said to be owners favorite features.

[greenninja]

Ended up taking the plunge and picking up a 2011 535i CPO. I went back and forth, but the power was something just didn't want to sacrifice on, even tho 528i is a superb engine in my opinion. It's that one time when you need the extra juice...maybe a car full of people...lol, I would just regret it.

[BigDeep1]

Great choice. The torque is awesome and starts low. I also agree with a post above that the 528 is more jerky (the power band is not as smooth and it takes hard reving and shifting to compensate for the low power). My wife was actually a lot more nauseous in the 528i loaner for this reason (motion sickness was more prevalent).

[Achilles]

Originally Posted by kc1953

Make sure you do a thorough test drive if you purchase an early build 2011. It has been well documented that they suffered from a few quirks, including a tendency to pull to the right. This is well documented on this and other f10 forums. Do your research and buy with your eyes open.

I just recently purchased a 2011 535i Xdrive.... Where can I find the build date?

[The X Men]

On the driver's door jam.

[aongch]

Originally Posted by BigDeep1

I would not buy anything built before 10/10. I actually made a post on Bimmerfest about how I think a 2013 528i is about as fun to drive as an 11 535i.

Can you help here to back up your comments, quick links? Not successful searching in Bimmerfest. Very much appreciated.

[SIC FKR]

Congrats its a great car.

[nyc2sd30]

Congrats, you'll love it.