2008 BMW 328i

Introduction

The 2008 BMW 328i is a compact luxury sedan powered by a naturally aspirated 3.0L inline-6 engine producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. It is available with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 328i is praised for its well-balanced driving dynamics, refined interior, and ample performance. However, it has also been subject to a number of reported issues.

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 with 6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Valve Cover Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the top of the engine, visible on the valve cover. May also experience a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Inline-6 with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission may shift erratically, slip, or fail to engage gears. May also trigger warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: 08V-309

Transmission

• CV Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noise from the front wheels when turning.
  • Solution: Replace CV joint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Propeller Shaft Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially at high speeds.
  • Solution: Replace propeller shaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Thumping or clunking noise from the front of the vehicle over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Reinforcement Bar Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops on the rear bumper reinforcement bar, leading to holes or breakage.
  • Solution: Replace rear bumper reinforcement bar.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or rattling noise from the center console, especially when driving over rough roads.
  • Solution: Tighten or replace center console components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Other

• Differential Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially when turning or accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace differential.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 328i can be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle. However, it is not without its potential issues. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as transmission and differential failures, can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a used 328i and factor in the potential cost of repairs.