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2004 BMW 330xi

2004 BMW 330xi

The 2004 BMW 330xi is a compact executive sedan that offers a combination of performance and luxury. It is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine that produces 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission. The 330xi is equipped with all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in all weather conditions.

Despite its overall reliability, the 2004 BMW 330xi has some known issues that owners should be aware of. These issues can vary depending on the engine and transmission option.

Engine

3.0-liter Inline-6

  • Valvetronic System Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, reduced power, increased fuel consumption Solution: Replacement of Valvetronic motor or eccentric shaft sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 04V438000, 05V517000, 06V354000

  • Cooling System Leaks Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks Solution: Replacement of hoses, gaskets, or water pump Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found

  • Intake Manifold Flaps Sticking Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, rough idling Solution: Cleaning or replacement of intake manifold flaps Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Shift Fork Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises Solution: Replacement of shift forks Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200 Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Slipping Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, delayed gear changes Solution: Repair or replacement of transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found

  • Torque Converter Failure Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations Solution: Replacement of torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushings Wear Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, reduced handling Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side Recalls: None Found

  • Rear Shock Absorbers Leaking Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor ride quality Solution: Replacement of shock absorbers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per pair Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Electrical Harness Issues Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, such as flickering lights, malfunctioning gauges Solution: Repair or replacement of affected wiring harness Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found

  • Battery Discharge Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead unexpectedly Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic battery drain Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation Description/Symptoms: Buildup of moisture inside headlights Solution: Replacement or repair of headlights Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per side Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Navigation System Malfunctions Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation errors Solution: Software update or replacement of navigation unit Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found

  • Sunroof Drain Clogs Description/Symptoms: Water leakage into interior Solution: Cleaning or replacement of sunroof drains Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2004 BMW 330xi is praised for its performance and luxury features, it does have some known issues that owners should be aware of. Engine-related issues can be costly to repair, and transmission problems can also be significant. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe and typically less expensive to fix. Overall, the 330xi is a reliable vehicle with a few potential issues that should be considered before purchasing one.

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