2008 BMW 328xi

Introduction

The 2008 BMW 328xi is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is available as an option. The 328xi is known for its sharp handling, comfortable interior, and powerful engine. However, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine

• N52 Engine
  • Valve Stem Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a decrease in engine power.
    • Solution: Replace the valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine at start-up or acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Six-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Shift Fork Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into second gear.
    • Solution: Replace the shift fork.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shift delays, and error codes stored in the transmission control unit.
    • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and a decrease in handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Mounting Points
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or breaking of the rear subframe mounting points, which can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Inspect the rear subframe mounting points and reinforce them if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: 13V-426

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, and error codes stored in the ECU.
  • Solution: Replace the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly even when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Inspect the vehicle for a parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Wheel Arches and Doors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the wheel arches and doors, especially in areas exposed to moisture and salt.
  • Solution: Repair the rust and protect the affected areas with rust-resistant paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the interior of the vehicle through the sunroof.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the clogged sunroof drain plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 328xi is a well-rounded luxury sedan that has been plagued by a number of issues. The most severe and expensive issues are the valve stem seal failure, timing chain rattle, and rear subframe mounting points. While the estimated cost to fix these issues can be high, most other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to resolve. Overall, the 328xi is a reliable vehicle that provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.