1999 BMW 328i
Introduction
The 1999 BMW 328i is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 engine. It produces 193 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque and comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission. The 328i is known for its sporty handling, refined interior, and strong performance. However, it has also been known to experience certain issues.
Engine
2.8L Inline-6
- Valve cover gasket leak: Oil seeps from the top of the engine.
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, visible on the top of the engine.
- Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-speed Manual
- Reverse gear failure: Reverse gear does not engage or grinds when shifting into reverse.
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty or inability to shift into reverse.
- Solution: Replace reverse gear synchronizer.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
5-speed Automatic
- Transmission slipping: Transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears.
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power or delayed shifts.
- Solution: Replace transmission filter and fluid, or rebuild transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,500
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut mount bearing failure: Excessive noise and vibration during turns or over bumps.
- Description/Symptoms: Loud banging or clunking noise, especially on uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Replace strut mount bearings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator failure: Battery does not charge or vehicle loses power while driving.
- Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery warning light illuminated, engine stalling.
- Solution: Replace alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: 99V204000
Exterior
- Door lock failure: Doors do not lock or unlock properly.
- Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close doors using the key or power locks.
- Solution: Replace door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Instrument cluster failure: Gauges, warning lights, or other components of the instrument cluster malfunction.
- Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, flickering lights, or completely inoperable cluster.
- Solution: Replace instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 BMW 328i is a well-rounded vehicle, but it has been known to experience certain issues. While some, such as the door lock failure, are relatively minor, others, like the transmission slipping, can be more costly to repair. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues vary, but potential owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing one of these vehicles.