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2007 BMW 323i

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2007 BMW 323i, organized by category and component, following your specified format.

The 2007 BMW 323i is part of the E90 generation, known for its blend of sporty handling and luxury features. The 323i specifically features a 2.5-liter inline-6 engine (N52B25) producing approximately 174 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the E90 3-Series include the 328i (3.0-liter inline-6) and the higher-performance 335i (3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-6). Transmission choices typically include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. People generally appreciate the 323i for its responsive steering, balanced chassis, and comfortable interior. Common dislikes revolve around higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury brands and potential issues with some of the electronic components.

Engine

2.5L Inline-6 (N52B25)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often occur from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket. It’s often recommended to replace the valve cover itself if warped.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and shop rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids can fail, causing rough idling, loss of power, and potential check engine lights with VANOS-related fault codes.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on if one or both solenoids need to be replaced, and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • DISA Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The DISA (Differential Air Intake System) valve can fail, causing rough running, loss of power, and a rattling noise from the intake manifold.
    • Solution: Replace the DISA valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (GM or ZF)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body can experience wear and tear, leading to hard or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild. Transmission flush and fluid change may temporarily alleviate the symptoms, but the root cause usually requires addressing the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on whether the valve body is rebuilt, replaced, or if a full transmission rebuild is necessary.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can manifest as shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch Slipping, hard to get into gears, or grinding when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Clutch Replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings (especially the front lower control arms) can cause clunking noises from the front suspension, vibrations at higher speeds, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side, depending on whether only the bushings or the entire arm is replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts/shocks, bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
    • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ depending on brand of part, and replacing in pairs is recommended.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains excessively, especially when the car is not driven frequently. This can be caused by a faulty module not going into sleep mode, or an aftermarket accessory draining power.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve testing individual modules and circuits.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue and time spent diagnosing.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows fail to operate properly, often accompanied by clicking noises or the window falling down inside the door.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Starter Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle has trouble starting, may only click when attempting to start.
    • Solution: Replace starter motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles (especially the exterior ones) can become loose or fail to operate correctly.
    • Solution: Replace the door handle mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per handle.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric can detach from the backing and sag, especially in warmer climates.
    • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner fabric.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Stereo System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the radio display, speakers, or the entire iDrive system (if equipped).
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the nature of the problem and the complexity of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 BMW 323i, while offering a pleasant driving experience, is prone to certain issues as it ages. Engine oil leaks, VANOS problems, and transmission issues are among the more significant concerns, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical problems, such as battery drain and window regulator failures, are also relatively common. Suspension components like control arm bushings are likely to require replacement due to wear and tear. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be more extensive, making pre-purchase inspections and careful maintenance crucial for ownership. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission overhauls.

BMW, 323i
BMW 323i 2007
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