2013 BMW 535i Has Rough Idle

Troubleshooting Causes of Rough Idle in Your 2013 BMW 535i and How to Restore Smooth Performance

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Reviewed by

Devin Cabugcal

Written by RepairPal Car Genius

Updated January 14, 2025

21% chance it's the

Spark Plugs

15% chance it's the

Ignition Coil

64% chance it's

Something else

The most common reasons a 2013 BMW 535i has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.

Spark Plugs: A worn or fouled spark plug can cause misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency due to incomplete combustion.
Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.

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.

What are the best BMW repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2013 BMW 535i engine and performance issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 BMW 535i has rough idle?

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.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the common problems that could cause a rough idle in a 2013 BMW 535i?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 2013 BMW 535i, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting the vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can significantly disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to poor combustion and an unstable idle. Additionally, worn or damaged spark plugs can cause misfires, preventing the engine from running smoothly. Ignition coil issues are another frequent cause of rough idling, as they play a critical role in igniting the fuel-air mixture. It's also important to pay attention to the intake, ignition, and exhaust systems, as problems in these areas can contribute to rough handling and performance issues. Drivers should not overlook warning signs such as the check engine light, as timely intervention can help avoid more severe damage and costly repairs. For those with the N54 engine, be aware that faulty fuel injectors are a known issue, and BMW offers warranty coverage for replacements, highlighting the importance of addressing these problems promptly. By understanding these common issues, DIY enthusiasts can better troubleshoot and resolve rough idle symptoms in their BMW 535i.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in a 2013 BMW 535i?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2013 BMW 535i is not just a matter of comfort; it is crucial for the overall health of your vehicle. A rough idle can indicate underlying engine problems, such as faulty spark plugs, fuel system malfunctions, or issues with the air intake. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and engine misfires, which may escalate into more severe damage over time. Moreover, a rough idle could signal serious issues that require immediate attention to avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance and timely intervention are essential to maintain your BMW's performance and longevity. Therefore, if you notice a rough idle, it is imperative to address it promptly to prevent further complications and ensure your vehicle operates smoothly.

Related 2013 BMW 535i Problems

Read about related problems experienced by other BMW 535i drivers like you.

BMW 535i crankcase valve replacement needed due to high pitched whistling sound and rough idle

Some BMW 535i owners report experiencing a high-pitched whistling sound and rough idle, which may indicate a failing crankcase valve that requires replacement. Symptoms associated with this issue include choppy idle, blue smoke from the exhaust, significant vacuum at the oil filler cap and dipstick, and the peculiar whistling noise at idle. The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve, essential for evacuating fumes from the crankcase, is often the culprit behind these symptoms. This valve plays a critical role in suctioning blow-by gases out of the crankcase and returning them to the engine for proper combustion. If noise issues are also linked to the crankshaft seals, it is advisable to check the PCV valve first, as it may contribute to the problem. Replacing the crankcase vent valve, part of the PCV system, could resolve the whistling sound and rough idle. Owners are encouraged to have the PCV valve inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic to ensure the engine functions properly and to prevent further damage.

1 model year affected

Avg Mileage: 187,000

2 others reported problem

1 comment

Jaguar XKR rough idling issue with trouble codes indicating random multiple misfire in one bank

Some Jaguar XKR owners report experiencing rough idling issues accompanied by trouble codes indicating random multiple misfires, such as P0300, P0302, and P0304, which are linked to specific cylinders like cylinder 2 and cylinder 4. These owners often identify potential causes including vacuum leaks, spark plug problems, or ignition coil failures. Additionally, some report symptoms of fuel starvation, prompting checks of fuel pressures for accurate diagnosis. Issues with the supercharger bypass valve have also been noted as a contributing factor to rough idling. Furthermore, maintaining the correct air-to-fuel ratio is crucial, as any discrepancies can exacerbate misfires and idling issues. To resolve these problems, owners may need to reset fault codes, check fuel pressure, inspect the supercharger bypass valve, and ensure optimal air-to-fuel ratios.

1 model year affected

See More 2013 BMW 535i Problems

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