Driver side: inflator module
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
NHTSA has logged 30 owner complaints about the 2014 BMW 535i, most often about the engine. It is covered by 2 safety recalls, and for recall 24V-527 the manufacturer reports only 43% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through March 2, 2026. Updated daily.
30 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 10 | 2 |
| Electrical system | 8 | 0 |
| Structure | 4 | 1 |
| Exterior lighting | 3 | 0 |
| Tires | 2 | 0 |
| Service brakes | 2 | 2 |
| Visibility/wiper | 2 | 1 |
| Vehicle speed control | 1 | 1 |
| Visibility | 1 | 0 |
| 9 other systems | 9 | 4 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Risk. The vehicle may be less visible to other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with BMW.
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the 535i median. How we score
2014 BMW 535 I 4 DR RWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.



Federal investigations that included the 2014 BMW 535i, and the recalls they led to.
Recent engine complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
The BMW, while turning at low speed into a parking space, suddenly accelerated and the braking system failed. Airbags deployed after multiple impacts with other vehicles and a fixed object, causing serious personal injury for the driver. The incident occurred on 01/16/2026. The vehicle is a total…
2014 BMW 535i Oil housing filter started leaking oil into serpentine belt causing the belt to shred and snap then was sucked into the crankshaft causing the motor to seize. Car was towed to bmw dealership and was diagnosed with catastrophic engine failure resulting in $28,000 estimate for engine…
Possible PCV malfunction. Intense plastic burning smell, smoke coming from front ac vents. Dealer unable to replicate issue, valve cover replaced under warranty. Issue persists. 2 Vehicle inspections at same bmw dealer, were unable to identify burnt battery PCM as well. Occasional check engine…
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.