2007 BMW 330i

The 2007 BMW 330i is a popular entry in the E90 generation, praised for its balance of performance and luxury. It offers a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six engine (N52) producing 255 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2007 E90 3-Series include the 328i’s 3.0L inline-six (N51/N52) rated at 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque, and the 335i’s twin-turbo 3.0L inline-six (N54) which delivered 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices for the 330i were a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the 330i’s sharp handling, smooth engine, and refined interior. Common dislikes include higher than average maintenance costs, and some specific reliability concerns.

Engine

N52 3.0L Inline-Six

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket and Oil Filter Housing Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gasket and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric water pump is known to fail, causing overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM GA6L45R)

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic sleeve, which seals the transmission wiring harness to the transmission case, can leak. Symptoms include visible transmission fluid leaks and potential transmission issues.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and potentially change the transmission fluid and filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual No Issues Found

Suspension

• Cracked Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings are prone to cracking, leading to vibrations, poor handling, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear subframe bushings wear out over time, causing clunking noises, poor handling, and vibrations.
  • Solution: Replace the rear subframe bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car can experience excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery. This can be due to a faulty module or electrical component not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain, which can involve testing and replacing various modules or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with Xenon headlights, the ballast can fail, causing the headlight to flicker or not work at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty headlight ballast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles can break or become loose, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The electronic steering wheel lock mechanism can fail, preventing the car from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the steering wheel lock mechanism (often requires reprogramming).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Light Illumination
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag light may illuminate due to a faulty seat occupancy sensor or other airbag-related component.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the airbag light and replace the faulty sensor or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2007 BMW 330i is a desirable car known for its performance and handling, but prospective owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and water pump failures can be costly. Suspension and electrical issues, such as control arm bushings, battery drains, and airbag light problems, are also common. Steering wheel lock malfunctions are another major issue. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to over a thousand dollars for more complex problems. Therefore, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are recommended before purchasing a 2007 BMW 330i.