Model year guide
1987 BMW 535
Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 1987 BMW 535 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 1 on record.
1987 BMW 535 at a glance
Safety recalls1
Owner complaints3
Included: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.
1987 BMW 535 recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
NHTSA Campaign #86V151000 · 10/11/1986
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH COULD OVERHEAT, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO MELTING OF PLASTIC INTERNAL PARTS IN AREA OF ELECTRICAL CONTACTS.
Fix: REPLACE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WITH REVISED SWITCH WITH INCREASED ELECTRICAL LOAD CAPACITY.
Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 4 Nov 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.
1987 BMW 535 common problems
The most-reported problem areas across all 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.
Hydraulic
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Steering
Steering should be tight and centered — no play, clunks or wandering. Test at low and highway speed; listen for power-steering whine.