2013 BMW 535i GT Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2013 BMW 535i GT and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 BMW 535i GT engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 BMW 535i GT engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What diagnostic steps should be taken to address the stalling issue in a 2013 BMW 535i GT?

When tackling the stalling issue in your 2013 BMW 535i GT, begin with a thorough inspection of the high-pressure fuel pump and its associated sensors, as these components are often culprits in stalling conditions. Next, conduct a comprehensive check of the electrical system to rule out any failures that could disrupt engine performance. Pay close attention to any sensor malfunctions, as these can significantly impact the vehicle's operation. Additionally, consider environmental factors that may be affecting the engine, such as temperature and fuel quality. If the stalling occurs primarily during braking, investigate other maintenance items rather than assuming it's linked to the Auto Start-Stop system. Should these initial checks not yield results, delve into the Engine Control Unit (DME) for potential issues. Utilizing diagnostic tools like ISTA-D can provide real-time data to help pinpoint the problem. Finally, ensure that the idle control system is functioning properly, as this is crucial for maintaining engine stability. If the stalling persists despite your efforts, consulting a professional mechanic with BMW expertise may be the best course of action to ensure a thorough diagnosis and resolution.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2013 BMW 535i GT?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2013 BMW 535i GT, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within the vehicle's systems. The fuel system is often at the forefront of these issues, where a failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter can disrupt the flow of gasoline to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the air intake system plays a vital role; problems such as vacuum leaks or a malfunctioning idle control valve can cause irregular air-fuel mixtures, resulting in rough idling or stalling. Ignition system failures, including faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also contribute to engine misfires and stuttering. Furthermore, the engine control unit (DME) may experience glitches that affect performance, while auto-stop features can cause the vehicle to hesitate or slip into neutral unexpectedly. By addressing these common problems promptly, DIY enthusiasts can help ensure their BMW 535i GT runs smoothly and reliably.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2013 BMW 535i GT?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2013 BMW 535i GT is of utmost urgency, as neglecting this problem can lead to serious safety risks and costly repairs. Engine stalling can stem from various factors, including electrical failures, sensor malfunctions, and fuel system issues, which, if left unresolved, may escalate into more severe engine damage. For instance, problems with fuel quality or ignition timing can disrupt the combustion process, potentially resulting in misfires and inefficient engine performance. Moreover, low compression issues can necessitate expensive repairs, such as engine rebuilding or replacement. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to recognize the signs of stalling and take immediate action to diagnose and rectify the underlying causes. By doing so, they not only enhance the reliability and safety of their vehicle but also prevent further complications that could arise from ignoring these critical symptoms.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.