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2008 BMW 328xi

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2008 BMW 328xi, formatted for your website.

The 2008 BMW 328xi is part of the E90 3-Series generation, known for its blend of sporty handling and luxury features. This model comes standard with a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N52B30), producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. While praised for its engaging driving dynamics and refined interior, some owners have reported certain recurring issues. Owners often enjoy the car’s handling and steering feel, as well as its comfortable front seats and stylish design. Common complaints often relate to the car’s repair costs, especially with age, and the potential for electrical gremlins.

Engine

N52B30 3.0L Inline-6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, most commonly the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location and shop.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can experience problems with its solenoids. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and a loss of power. Fault codes related to VANOS will often be stored in the ECU.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • DISA Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The DISA (Differential Air Intake System) valve, responsible for optimizing intake airflow, can fail. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the intake manifold area, loss of power, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the DISA valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

GM 6L45R 6-Speed Automatic

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body within the 6-speed automatic transmission can experience wear and tear, leading to rough or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and overall poor transmission performance.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ depending on the severity and shop.
    • Recalls: None Found

Getrag GS6-17BG 6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch wear and failure is a common issue with manual transmissions as they age. Symptoms include slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, and clutch pedal issues.
    • Solution: Replacing clutch kit, pressure plate, throwout bearing, pilot bearing, and slave cylinder (recommended).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$2000+ depending on shop and parts used.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings, particularly in the front suspension, are prone to wear and cracking. Symptoms include clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut/Shock Absorber Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the struts and shock absorbers can lose their damping ability, leading to a bouncy ride, reduced handling performance, and increased stopping distances.
    • Solution: Replacing the struts and/or shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ depending on parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, resulting in the inability to lock or unlock doors remotely or manually.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to a variety of factors, including a faulty alternator, parasitic draw from electrical components, or a failing battery.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the battery drain (replacing the battery, alternator, or faulty components).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the cause. Could range from $150 for a new battery to $500+ for an alternator replacement or electrical diagnosis.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Comfort Access Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access system, which allows keyless entry and start, can experience glitches or failures. Symptoms include difficulty unlocking the car, inability to start the car without inserting the key, and error messages.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty comfort access components (door handles, antennas, control modules).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Especially in Northern Climates)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on body panels, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and door edges, particularly in areas where road salt is used.
    • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the rust. $300 - $2000+ per panel.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking (Especially in Hot Climates)
    • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks, particularly in hot and sunny climates, due to prolonged exposure to heat and UV rays.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ for dashboard replacement. Dashboard covers range from $50 - $200.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Radio/iDrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The radio and iDrive system can experience malfunctions, including screen failures, audio issues, and software glitches.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing the faulty components (radio unit, iDrive controller, screen). Software updates can sometimes resolve glitches.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 328xi, while a desirable car, can present owners with several potential issues, particularly as it ages. Engine oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical problems are common concerns. Repair costs can range from relatively minor (e.g., replacing a VANOS solenoid) to significant (e.g., transmission rebuild or dashboard replacement). Careful inspection, regular maintenance, and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these risks. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision and ongoing maintenance budget.

BMW, 328xi
BMW 328xi 2008
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