BMW 135i buying guide: the E82 and E88 with N54 or N55
The BMW 135i is a compact coupé or convertible with a turbo straight-six. This buying guide covers the E82 and E88, N54 vs N55, gearboxes, known issues, tuned cars and the checks to make.
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This 135i buying guide covers the E82 coupé and E88 convertible, built from 2007 to 2013. With a 3.0-litre twin-turbo or single-turbo straight-six in a small rear-wheel drive body, the 135i became one of the most admired compact performance cars of its time.
It was also the base of the legendary 1M Coupé. Today it offers strong performance at an affordable price, but the engine type and maintenance history make a big difference. Here is what to check before you buy.
Why the 135i is special
The 135i combined a compact two-door body with the turbocharged straight-six engines used in larger BMWs. The result was a light, short-wheelbase car with strong torque and rear-wheel drive.
It was offered as a coupé (E82) and convertible (E88). The 135i also provided the base for the 1M Coupé, which used the same body with wider arches and M components. Our article on the BMW 1M Coupé history explains that car.
N54 or N55: the key choice
The 135i used two different engines:
- N54 (early cars, around 2007 to 2010): a 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six. Very strong and popular for tuning, but known for high-pressure fuel pump, injector and wastegate issues.
- N55 (later cars, from around 2010): a 3.0-litre single twin-scroll turbo straight-six with Valvetronic. Generally considered more reliable, with similar performance.
Both produce around 306 hp in many markets. Our comparison of the N54, N55 and B58 explains the differences in detail. Many buyers prefer the N55 for reliability, while tuners often prefer the N54.
135i buying guide: engine checks
Common points to check include:
- High-pressure fuel pump on N54 cars. Our article on BMW HPFP problems explains the symptoms.
- Injectors on N54 engines, which can leak or misfire.
- Wastegate rattle on N54 turbos. Our article on BMW turbo problems explains it.
- Oil leaks from the oil filter housing gasket and valve cover gasket. Our article on BMW oil leaks lists common leak points.
- Electric water pump and thermostat, which can fail with age. Our article on BMW cooling system problems explains this.
- Charge pipe, which can crack on tuned cars.
- Spark plugs and ignition coils.
A cold start, a fault code reading and a test drive with full acceleration help identify problems.
Gearboxes
The 135i was offered with:
- A six-speed manual, popular with enthusiasts.
- A six-speed automatic on many N54 cars.
- A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox on many N55 cars.
Check the clutch and dual-mass flywheel on manual cars. Our article on the BMW dual-mass flywheel explains the symptoms. On automatic and DCT cars, check for smooth shifts and ask about fluid changes. Our article on BMW transmission fluid explains why this matters.
Tuned or standard?
The 135i, especially with the N54, is one of the most frequently tuned BMWs. If you are looking at a modified car:
- Ask for a full list of modifications and invoices.
- Check that supporting parts such as the charge pipe, intercooler and clutch were upgraded where needed.
- Make sure all modifications are legal and declared to your insurer.
- Prefer cars that come with the original parts.
A well-maintained standard car is usually the safest purchase.
Chassis, brakes and body
- Suspension: check for knocks from the front axle and worn bushings. Our article on worn BMW suspension bushings explains the symptoms.
- Brakes: the 135i had sport brakes that are effective but can wear discs quickly when driven hard.
- Tyres: many cars use run-flat tyres. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains the pros and cons.
- Convertible roof: on the E88, operate the roof several times and check for leaks. Our article on BMW water leaks explains how to find them.
- Rust: check sills and wheel arches on older cars.
Interior and equipment
Check that iDrive, navigation and all electrical functions work. Popular options include sports seats, Xenon headlights, the Harman Kardon sound system and adaptive headlights. Our article on BMW headlights explains the different systems.
The interior of the 135i is practical for a compact coupé, with two usable rear seats for short trips and a reasonable boot. Look at the wear on the driver's seat bolster and steering wheel, because they show how the car was used. High wear on a car with low mileage is a reason to ask more questions about its history.
Is the 135i a good buy?
The 135i offers a rare combination of size, power and rear-wheel drive. It is fast, fun and relatively affordable. The key is to choose the right engine for your needs and a car with complete history.
Arrange an inspection with a BMW specialist who knows the N54 and N55, and follow our complete checklist for buying a used BMW. Our M140i buying guide covers its successor.
BMW 135i key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2007 to 2013 |
| Body styles | E82 coupé, E88 convertible |
| Engines | N54 twin-turbo, later N55 single twin-scroll turbo |
| Power | Around 306 hp in many markets |
| Gearboxes | 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 7-speed DCT |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Key checks | HPFP, injectors, leaks, cooling, tuning |
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW 135i reliable?
N55 cars are generally more reliable. N54 cars need careful checks of the fuel pump, injectors and turbos.
Which is better, the N54 or N55 135i?
The N55 is usually preferred for reliability, while the N54 is popular with tuners.
Does the 135i have a manual gearbox?
Yes. A six-speed manual was available, as well as automatic and dual-clutch gearboxes.
Is the 135i the same as the 1M?
No. The 1M Coupé is based on the 135i body but has wider arches, M components and a different engine tune.
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