1997 BMW 528i

Introduction: The 1997 BMW 528i is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its performance, handling, and prestige. It is powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six engine that produces 190 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The 528i was praised for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and responsive steering. However, it had its share of problems that some owners experienced.

Engine 2.8L Inline-Six Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leakage of coolant and oil, overheating, rough idling, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• Timing Chain Guide Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise from the engine, reduced power, engine misfires
  • Solution: Replace timing chain guides
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Valve Stem Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, fouled spark plugs
  • Solution: Replace valve stem seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500

Transmission Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Major Issues Found

Five-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, loss of power under acceleration
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, transmission stuck in gear
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps, excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• Rear Shock Absorber Mounts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Thumping noise over bumps, bouncing rear end, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace shock absorber mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting, electrical gremlins
  • Solution: Test and replace battery or alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, loss of power, difficult starting
  • Solution: Replace ignition coils
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Window stuck up or down, scratching noises
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clear coat on paint peels off, exposing primer or base coat
  • Solution: Repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
• Fog Light Lens Fogging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog lights become cloudy or hazy, reducing visibility
  • Solution: Replace fog light lenses
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Interior

• Heater/AC Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No air flow from vents, fan noise not working
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors cannot be locked or unlocked, key cannot open doors
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Summary: The 1997 BMW 528i is a luxurious and sporty sedan, but it has had its share of issues that can be costly to fix. The most serious problems include head gasket failure, timing chain guide wear, and transmission slipping. Other issues, such as suspension problems, electrical gremlins, and interior component failures, are also common. Despite these issues, the 528i remains a popular choice among enthusiasts due to its performance and handling capabilities.