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1997 BMW 328i

The 1997 BMW 328i is a popular luxury sedan that is known for its performance and handling. The 328i comes with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.8-liter inline-six engine with 193 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque, mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

People who own the 1997 BMW 328i generally praise it for its performance, handling, and interior quality. However, there are some common issues that people have reported with the vehicle.

Engine

  • 3.1L M52TU VANOS Engine
    • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket.
      • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
      • Recalls: None Found
    • Camshaft position sensor failure: The camshaft position sensor fails, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
      • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
      • Recalls: None Found
    • Coolant expansion tank failure: The coolant expansion tank cracks or leaks, causing coolant to leak out.
      • Solution: Replace the coolant expansion tank.
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
      • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

  • 5-speed manual transmission
    • Clutch failure: The clutch wears out and needs to be replaced.
      • Solution: Replace the clutch.
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
      • Recalls: None Found
  • 4-speed automatic transmission
    • Transmission fluid leak: The transmission fluid leaks from the transmission pan or other seals.
      • Solution: Replace the transmission pan gasket or other seals.
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
      • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front suspension: The front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, tie rods) wear out and need to be replaced.
    • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery drain: The battery drains quickly due to a parasitic draw.
    • Solution: Find and fix the parasitic draw.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof leaks: The sunroof leaks water into the cabin.
    • Solution: Replace the sunroof seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Center console lid: The center console lid breaks or becomes loose.
    • Solution: Replace the center console lid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door lock actuators: The door lock actuators fail, causing the doors to lock or unlock intermittently.
    • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found

*Overall, the 1997 BMW 328i is a reliable and fun-to-drive car. However, there are some common issues that people have reported with the vehicle. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the individual vehicle and its maintenance history. The cost to fix these issues can also vary depending on the severity of the issue and the location of the repair./

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