BMW 335i buying guide: the E90, E92 and E93 with N54 or N55

This 335i buying guide covers the E90 saloon, E91 Touring, E92 coupé and E93 convertible of the fifth-generation 3 Series. Introduced in 2006, the 335i was one of the first modern BMWs with a turbocharged petrol straight-six, and it delivered performance close to earlier M3 models.

Today it is an affordable way into a fast BMW, but engine type, maintenance and modifications are critical. Here is what to know and what to check before you buy.

The first turbo 3 Series of its era

The 335i introduced BMW's TwinPower Turbo technology to the 3 Series. Its strong torque from low revs changed how people thought about fast BMWs.

It was offered in several body styles:

• E90 saloon.
• E91 Touring in some markets.
• E92 coupé.
• E93 convertible with a folding hard top.

The xDrive versions added all-wheel drive in many markets. Our article on BMW chassis codes explains the E-series names.

N54 or N55

The 335i used two engines:

• N54: a 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six used in earlier cars. Strong and popular for tuning, but known for fuel pump, injector and wastegate problems.
• N55: a 3.0-litre single twin-scroll turbo straight-six with Valvetronic, used in later cars from around 2010. Generally more reliable.

Both produce around 306 hp in many markets. Our comparison of the N54, N55 and B58 explains the differences. Check the engine code in the vehicle documents or production data.

335i 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.
• Wastegate rattle on N54 turbochargers. Our article on BMW turbo problems explains this.
• Oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets, which can leak. Our article on BMW oil leaks lists common leak points.
• Electric water pump and thermostat.
• Crankcase ventilation valve on some engines. Our article on the BMW PCV valve explains the symptoms.
• Spark plugs and ignition coils.

A cold start, a fault code reading and a test drive with full acceleration help identify problems.

Gearboxes and xDrive

The 335i was available with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, depending on market and year. Later variants offered other gearbox options in some markets.

• Manual: check the clutch and the dual-mass flywheel. Our article on the BMW dual-mass flywheel explains the symptoms.
• Automatic: check for smooth shifts and ask about fluid changes. Our article on BMW transmission fluid explains why fluid matters.
• xDrive: check the transfer case for noises and smooth operation when manoeuvring. Our article on M xDrive explains how all-wheel drive works on BMWs.

Tuned or standard?

The 335i is a popular car for tuning. When looking at a modified car:

• Ask for invoices and a full list of modifications.
• Check supporting parts such as the charge pipe, intercooler and clutch.
• Make sure the car is legal and correctly insured.
• Prefer cars with the original parts included.

A standard car with complete service history is usually the safest choice.

Chassis, body and roof

• Suspension: front control arm bushings and other parts wear with age. Our article on worn BMW suspension bushings explains the symptoms.
• Brakes and tyres: many cars use run-flat tyres. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains the pros and cons.
• E93 roof: operate the folding hard top several times and check for leaks. Our article on BMW water leaks explains causes.
• Window regulators: frameless windows on the coupé and convertible should drop and rise correctly. Our article on BMW window regulators explains the issue.
• Rust: check sills and wheel arches on older cars.

Equipment and electronics

Test iDrive, navigation, xenon or adaptive headlights, parking sensors and all electrical functions. Many electrical faults are caused by an old battery. Our article on BMW battery registration explains why a replacement battery must be registered.

The E90 generation was offered with several iDrive versions, from early systems to the later CIC system with a hard drive and sharper screen. Our article on BMW iDrive generations explains the differences. Check the interior for wear on seats and steering wheel, and make sure the climate control blows cold. Our article on BMW air conditioning not cold explains common faults.

Is the 335i a good buy?

The 335i offers excellent performance, comfort and value. It is a practical and rewarding car if you choose carefully. Many buyers look for a later N55 car with full history, while enthusiasts who plan to tune often choose the N54.

Arrange an inspection with a BMW specialist and follow our complete checklist for buying a used BMW. Our E92 M3 buying guide explains the M3 of the same generation.

BMW 335i key facts

Item	Details
Production	From 2006, E90 generation
Body styles	E90 saloon, E91 Touring, E92 coupé, E93 convertible
Engines	N54 twin-turbo, later N55 single twin-scroll turbo
Power	Around 306 hp in many markets
Drive	Rear-wheel drive or xDrive
Gearboxes	Manual or automatic, depending on version
Key checks	HPFP, injectors, leaks, cooling, tuning

Frequently asked questions

Is the BMW 335i reliable?

N55 cars are generally more reliable. N54 cars need careful checks of the fuel pump, injectors and turbochargers.

How do I know if a 335i has the N54 or N55?

Check the engine code in the vehicle documents or production data. Later cars from around 2010 use the N55.

Is the 335i a good first fast BMW?

Yes, if you choose a well-maintained car with complete history and preferably a standard engine.

Is the 335i xDrive a good choice?

Yes, for all-weather traction. Check the transfer case and drivetrain carefully.

Sources

• BMW Group PressClub – BMW 3 Series (E90, E92, E93) press kits
• BMW Group Classic – model information