2000 BMW 328Ci

The 2000 BMW 328Ci is a popular coupe known for its sleek design, sporty handling, and inline-six engine. It was part of the E46 generation, widely regarded as one of BMW’s best. The 328Ci came standard with a 2.8-liter inline-six engine producing 193 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. While a 5-speed manual transmission was available, many were equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s driving dynamics and overall refinement. Common complaints often revolve around the cost of maintenance and the age-related failures of various components.

Engine

2.8L M52 Inline-Six

• VANOS Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and a general decrease in engine performance. Can also trigger a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the VANOS seals and/or the entire VANOS unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential engine damage. Common culprits include the water pump, thermostat, radiator, and expansion tank. Plastic components are prone to cracking with age.
  • Solution: Replacing the failing components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the parts needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the oil filter housing, visible oil drips, and potential low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S325Z)

• Slipping/Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, slipping between gears, and harsh or jerky shifting.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter replacement (may provide temporary relief), valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G) No Issues Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the front control arm bushings or the entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or banging noises from the rear of the car, particularly during acceleration or cornering. In severe cases, can lead to cracking of the rear subframe.
  • Solution: Reinforcing the rear subframe and replacing the subframe mounts. This is typically addressed by welding in reinforcement plates.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down properly, making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pixel Loss in Instrument Cluster/Radio Display
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the instrument cluster or radio display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster/radio display.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and trunk lid)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots, bubbling paint, and eventual corrosion of the metal.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the severity of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the headliner board and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replacing the headliner fabric and re-gluing it to the headliner board.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 BMW 328Ci, while a desirable car, is prone to several age-related issues. Engine issues like VANOS failure and cooling system leaks can be relatively costly. Suspension problems, particularly rear subframe mount failures, can be significant and expensive to repair. Electrical issues such as window regulator and pixel loss are common nuisances. Rust, if left unchecked, can become a major concern. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car for these issues and factor in potential repair costs. While these issues can be costly, many owners find the driving experience and styling of the 328Ci worthwhile.