BMW 535i 2011-2016

BMW 535i 2011-2016 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and maintenance guide for the 2011-2016 BMW 535i drivetrain system. Includes engine, transmission, differential, and driveshaft details for the F10 chassis.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 535I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu for quick access to specific components.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Final Drive Ratio

3.15:1

Driveshaft Length

1,450 mm

Wheel Torque

120 Nm

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission configuration, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications

3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine
Maximum power output: 300 hp at 5800 rpm
Peak torque: 300 lb-ft at 1200-5000 rpm
Direct fuel injection system
Compression ratio: 10.2:1

Transmission Details

8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP)
Gear ratios: 4.71 (1st), 3.14 (2nd), 2.11 (3rd), 1.67 (4th), 1.29 (5th), 1.00 (6th), 0.84 (7th), 0.67 (8th)
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
Adaptive transmission control with sport and manual modes
Transmission fluid capacity: 9.5 liters

Note: The transmission features a torque converter with lock-up clutch for improved efficiency.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential system, including materials and performance characteristics

Driveshaft Specifications

Two-piece aluminum driveshaft
Length: 1,450 mm
Diameter: 80 mm
Balanced for high-speed operation up to 6,500 rpm
Weight: 12.5 kg

Differential Details

Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD)
Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
Differential fluid capacity: 1.2 liters
Housing material: Aluminum alloy
Maximum torque capacity: 450 Nm

Note: The eLSD provides improved traction and stability during cornering.

Axles and Wheels

Information about the axle configuration and wheel specifications, including alignment and torque values

Axle Specifications

Front axle: Double-wishbone suspension
Rear axle: Integral V multi-link suspension
Axle shaft diameter: 32 mm
Axle nut torque: 200 Nm
Axle weight distribution: 52% front, 48% rear

Wheel and Tire Details

Standard wheel size: 18x8 inches
Tire size: 245/45R18
Wheel bolt pattern: 5x120 mm
Recommended tire pressure: 32 psi (front), 35 psi (rear)
Wheel torque specification: 120 Nm

Note: Ensure proper wheel alignment to avoid uneven tire wear.

Drivetrain Control Systems

Overview of the electronic systems that manage and optimize drivetrain performance

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control System (TCS)
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Integrated with xDrive all-wheel drive system (if equipped)

Adaptive Drive System

Electronically controlled dampers
Active Roll Stabilization (ARS)
Adjustable ride height and stiffness
Integrated with Driving Dynamics Control
System weight: 15 kg

Note: The Adaptive Drive System enhances handling and comfort by adjusting to road conditions.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: N55B30 inline 6-cylinder turbocharged

Displacement: 2979 cc

Compression Ratio: 10.2:1

Max Power: 300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Max Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm

Fuel System: Direct injection

Part Number: 11 00 7 585 123

Transmission

Type: 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.714:1
2nd: 3.143:1
3rd: 2.106:1
4th: 1.667:1
5th: 1.285:1
6th: 1.000:1
7th: 0.839:1
8th: 0.667:1
Reverse: 3.317:1

Part Number: 24 00 7 585 456

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters

Fluid Type: BMW ATF-1

Transfer Case

Type: All-wheel drive (xDrive)

Part Number: 27 10 7 585 789

Fluid Capacity: 0.8 liters

Fluid Type: BMW TF-0870

Differential

Front: Type: Open differential
Gear Ratio: 3.15:1
Part Number: 33 10 7 585 321
Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO

Rear: Type: Limited-slip differential
Gear Ratio: 2.81:1
Part Number: 33 10 7 585 654
Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO

Driveshaft

Material: Aluminum and carbon fiber composite

Length: 1.5 meters

Part Number: 26 10 7 585 987

Torque Rating: 500 Nm

Axles

Front: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31 20 7 585 123
Torque Rating: 400 Nm

Rear: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31 20 7 585 456
Torque Rating: 400 Nm

Clutch

Type: Dual-mass flywheel

Part Number: 21 20 7 585 789

Torque Rating: 350 Nm

Wear Limit: 2 mm

Propeller Shaft

Material: Steel

Length: 1.2 meters

Part Number: 26 10 7 585 321

Torque Rating: 450 Nm

Mounts

Engine: Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22 11 7 585 654
Torque Rating: 50 Nm

Transmission: Type: Hydraulic
Part Number: 22 11 7 585 987
Torque Rating: 50 Nm

Operational Parameters

Max Engine Speed: 7000 rpm

Max Transmission Temp: 120°C

Max Differential Temp: 90°C

Max Torque Output: 300 lb-ft

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

10000

Check transmission fluid level
Inspect driveshaft for wear
Check differential fluid level

Use only BMW-approved fluids

30000

Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect clutch wear

Follow torque specifications during reassembly

60000

Replace transfer case fluid
Inspect propeller shaft for balance
Check engine and transmission mounts

Use diagnostic tools to verify system integrity

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2011-2016 BMW 535i use?

The 2011-2016 BMW 535i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The drivetrain is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) for smooth and efficient power delivery.

What is the torque rating of the drivetrain components in the 535i?

The drivetrain components, including the driveshaft and differential, are designed to handle the engine's maximum torque output of 300 lb-ft (406 Nm). The xDrive AWD system distributes torque variably between the front and rear axles for optimal traction.

How often should the drivetrain fluids be serviced?

BMW recommends servicing the differential fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. For the transfer case in xDrive models, fluid replacement is recommended every 50,000 miles (80,000 km). Always use BMW-approved fluids to ensure compatibility and performance.

What are the signs of drivetrain issues in the 535i?

Common signs include unusual noises (e.g., clunking or whining) during acceleration or deceleration, vibrations felt through the chassis, and difficulty shifting gears. These symptoms may indicate issues with the driveshaft, differential, or transmission mounts.

Can the drivetrain handle performance upgrades?

The drivetrain in the 535i is robust and can handle moderate performance upgrades, such as a Stage 1 tune. However, significant power increases (e.g., turbocharger upgrades) may require reinforcing the drivetrain components, including the driveshaft and differential, to prevent premature wear or failure.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 535i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components, including fluid replacement intervals and inspection procedures.

xDrive System Overview and Troubleshooting

Coming Soon

Learn about the xDrive AWD system, its operation, and common troubleshooting steps for optimal performance.

Driveshaft and Differential Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the driveshaft and differential in the BMW 535i, including torque specifications and alignment tips.

Performance Upgrades and Drivetrain Compatibility

Coming Soon

Explore performance upgrade options and their compatibility with the 535i drivetrain, including recommended modifications.

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