2006 BMW 325xi

Introduction

The 2006 BMW 325xi is a compact luxury sedan known for its handling, performance, and comfort. It comes with a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Commonly praised for its powerful engine, responsive handling, and comfortable interior, the 325xi has also received criticism for its high maintenance costs and some interior design choices.

Engine

• N52B30 (3.0L Inline-6)
  • Vanos Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace Vanos solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the top of the engine
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Thermostat Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks
    • Solution: Replace coolant thermostat
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• GM A5S390R (6-speed Automatic)
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, loss of gears, check engine light
    • Solution: Replace mechatronic unit
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500-$2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Fluid Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the pan or lines
    • Solution: Repair leak, replace fluid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, overheating
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace ignition coil(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems, battery drain
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, difficulty starting the car
  • Solution: Test and replace battery or troubleshoot electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin
  • Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drain plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Buttons Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons on the steering wheel stop working or become intermittent
  • Solution: Replace steering wheel buttons or wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Trim Panel Squeaky
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or rattling noises from the center console area
  • Solution: Tighten or replace trim panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2006 BMW 325xi offers strong performance and handling, it has a few moderate to severe issues that can be costly to fix, particularly with the transmission and electrical system. Drivers may also experience some minor interior and exterior issues.