2008 BMW 328xi

2008 BMW 328xi

Overview

The 2008 BMW 328xi, part of the E90 generation, is generally regarded as a solid vehicle with a reputation for sporty handling and a premium interior. Powered by BMW’s robust inline-six engines and featuring xDrive all-wheel drive, it offers a compelling blend of performance and all-weather capability. While most owners report a positive experience, like any vehicle of this age, certain components can exhibit wear or specific failure points. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

3.0L N52B30 I6

Valve Cover Gasket Leak

• Symptoms: Oil smell in the engine bay, visible oil on the engine block, blue smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
• Cost: $300 - $600

PCV Valve Failure

• Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, whistling noises from the engine, potential oil leaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve assembly.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Water Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, warning lights on the dashboard, whining noise from the front of the engine.
• Solution: Replacement of the electric water pump and thermostat.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (GM 6L45)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

6-Speed Manual

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Strut Mount Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, window stuck in position, grinding noise when operating window.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure

• Symptoms: One or both headlights flickering, not turning on, or turning off intermittently.
• Solution: Replacement of the headlight ballast.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Standard Exterior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Interior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2008 BMW 328xi (E90) with the 3.0L N52B30 engine is a capable luxury sedan. While the transmission options are generally reliable, the engine can experience issues such as oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, PCV valve failures, and water pump problems, which are common for this era of BMW. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts may require attention due to wear. Electrical gremlins, particularly with window regulators and headlight ballasts, are also noted. Overall, the 328xi offers a good driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of these specific reliability concerns and budget for potential repairs, especially on higher-mileage examples.