2006 BMW 325xi

The 2006 BMW 325xi is an all-wheel drive variant of the E90 3-Series sedan, known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. The 325xi is equipped with a 3.0L inline-6 engine (N52B30) producing 215 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the E90 3-Series include the 3.0L inline-6 (N52B30) in the 330i, and the 2.5L inline-6 (N52B25) in the 325i. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 325xi for its balanced driving experience, all-weather capability, and relatively compact size. Common complaints include high maintenance costs, electrical gremlins, and some issues with specific engine components.

Engine

N52B30 3.0L Inline-6

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold, burning oil smell, visible oil residue around the valve cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking down the side of the engine, visible oil residue around the oil filter housing, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased engine performance, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per solenoid
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, warning lights. This is a common issue on the N52 engine as the water pump is electric.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM A6/GA6L45R)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement, harsh upshifts or downshifts. Often caused by low fluid or failing solenoids.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, solenoid replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid and filter), $400 - $800 (solenoids), $3000 - $5000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling and cornering ability, oil leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or interior switch, erratic door lock behavior.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after a short period of inactivity, difficulty starting the vehicle. Often caused by a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw (could be a faulty module, relay, or aftermarket accessory).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or perforation on the rear wheel arches. A common issue in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking Sunroof
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing smoothly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 BMW 325xi, while enjoyable to drive, is prone to certain issues. The most common issues are related to oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical problems. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, like transmission issues, can be costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems and factor in the potential for higher maintenance costs when considering a purchase. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and the mechanic performing the work.