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2008 BMW 328i

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2008 BMW 328i is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its balanced handling, refined interior, and overall driving experience. It was available with a 3.0L inline-6 engine (N51 or N52), producing around 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate its responsive steering, comfortable ride (especially with the standard suspension), and relatively fuel-efficient engine. Common complaints often revolve around higher maintenance costs associated with German cars, electrical gremlins, and specific issues related to the cooling system and oil leaks. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic.

Engine

N52 3.0L Inline-6

  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning oil smell. Visible oil accumulation around the valve cover.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter housing, potentially causing a low oil level warning.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to VANOS (Variable Valve Timing).
    • Solution: Clean or replace the VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Failure (Water Pump, Thermostat)
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and temperature gauge fluctuations. The electric water pump is prone to failure.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat. Consider replacing the thermostat housing as well, as it can become brittle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

N51 3.0L Inline-6 (SULEV)

  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning oil smell. Visible oil accumulation around the valve cover.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter housing, potentially causing a low oil level warning.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to VANOS (Variable Valve Timing).
    • Solution: Clean or replace the VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Failure (Water Pump, Thermostat)
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and temperature gauge fluctuations. The electric water pump is prone to failure.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat. Consider replacing the thermostat housing as well, as it can become brittle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM GA6L45R)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and potential transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or failure to shift.
    • Solution: Replace faulty solenoids in the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (GS6-17BG/DG)

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering feel.
    • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut Mounts
    • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or groaning noises from the suspension, especially when turning the steering wheel at low speeds.
    • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the car is not being used.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty module, sensor, or wiring issue. A common culprit is the comfort access system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Comfort Access Issues (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access system malfunctions, causing issues with unlocking/locking the doors and starting the car.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty comfort access module or door handle sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights stop working or flicker intermittently.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty headlight ballast.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails, preventing the door from locking or unlocking properly.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Pixelation/Display Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The pixels on the dashboard display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read the information. This is especially common on the radio display.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster or radio display.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, getting stuck open or closed, or failing to operate smoothly.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 328i, while enjoyable to drive, is prone to certain common issues, particularly related to its engine (oil leaks, cooling system) and electrical systems. The automatic transmission can also present problems with the valve body. Suspension issues, such as control arm bushings, are typical for cars of this age. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor (e.g., replacing a valve cover gasket) to more significant (e.g., transmission rebuild). Repair costs can be moderate to high, reflecting the cost of parts and labor associated with a luxury vehicle. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in BMWs to identify any existing or potential problems.

BMW, 328i
BMW 328i 2008
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