2007 BMW 328xi

The 2007 BMW 328xi is an all-wheel-drive variant of the E90 3-Series, known for its sporty handling and luxurious features. It was equipped with a 3.0L naturally aspirated inline-six engine (N52B30) producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the E90 3-Series range included the 335i which has a twin-turbo inline-six engine. The 328xi came with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and overall refinement. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, along with specific issues related to certain components as they age.

Engine

N52B30 3.0L Inline-Six

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, leading to burning oil smell, visible oil on the engine, and potential for low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing gasket, similar symptoms to the valve cover gasket leak.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty VANOS solenoids can cause rough idling, poor performance, and error codes related to VANOS (variable valve timing).
  • Solution: Replacement of the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• DISA Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The DISA (Differential Air Intake System) valve can fail, leading to poor performance, especially at low RPMs, and a rattling noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the DISA valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

GM 6L45R 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure to shift can occur due to worn or faulty valve body components.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+

Getrag 6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, and can lead to vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings, or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts can cause creaking or popping noises from the suspension, especially when turning the steering wheel, and can affect handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per axle

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to a dead battery overnight or after a short period of inactivity. Often caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Common culprits include the comfort access system, the iDrive system, and the amplifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the issue and if a new module is required)
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window regulator failure can cause the window to fall into the door or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car may click once but not start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+

Exterior

• Rust on Door Edges/Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the edges of the doors and around the wheel wells is common, particularly in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material can detach from the backing and sag, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement or re-gluing of the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Center Console Cup Holder Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console cup holders are prone to breaking due to their flimsy design.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cup holders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Recalls:

• Service Action: Replace Positive Battery Cable Connector
  • Campaign Number: 21V004000
  • NHTSA ID: 21V004

In summary, the 2007 BMW 328xi, while a desirable vehicle, is prone to several age-related issues, with engine oil leaks and suspension component wear being common. Electrical problems can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs, especially related to the transmission and electrical systems. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with owning a BMW of this age.