2008 BMW 335xi
Okay, here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2008 BMW 335xi, categorized as requested.
The 2008 BMW 335xi is an all-wheel-drive variant of the E90 3 Series. It’s powered by the N54 twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. The car is appreciated for its performance, handling, and luxurious feel. Common dislikes include its reliability, relatively high maintenance costs, and some dated interior features compared to newer vehicles.
Engine
N54 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Long cranks, extended cranking, engine hesitation, and a half-engine light (reduced power) or complete engine stall.
- Solution: Replacement of the High-Pressure Fuel Pump. Some owners opted for a later revision HPFP.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Failure/Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires (often indicated by a check engine light), fuel smell, and potential fuel dilution of the engine oil.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors. It’s often recommended to replace all injectors on the same bank to ensure even fuel delivery. Index 12 injectors are recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per injector (parts and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine bay, particularly on cold starts or when the engine is under light load. Can eventually lead to boost leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbochargers. Some owners opt for upgraded aftermarket turbos.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+ (parts and labor for turbo replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Filter Housing Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, oil consumption, burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gasket ($300 - $600), Oil Filter Housing Gasket ($200 - $400), Oil Pan Gasket ($800 - $1500+)
- Recalls: None Found
- Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy.
- Solution: Walnut blasting of the intake valves to remove carbon deposits.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat. Often replaced as a preventative maintenance item.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (GM GA6L45R)
- Slipping/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or hesitation when accelerating.
- Solution: Fluid flush or replacement if the mileage is low. Transmission replacement or rebuild if mileage is high.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500 (fluid change) or $3000-$6000+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak. Transmission may have trouble shifting.
- Solution: Replacement of the Mechatronic sleeve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
- Recalls: None Found
- Cracked Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, clunking noise, and potential tire wear issues.
- Solution: Spring Replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. Can be caused by a faulty comfort access module or other parasitic drains.
- Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the drain and repair/replace the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the source of the drain, $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- FRM (Footwell Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power windows, lights, and other electrical functions. Can sometimes be reprogrammed but often requires replacement.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the FRM module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Cable Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door handle feels loose or detached, door won’t open from the outside.
- Solution: Replacement of the door handle cable.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300 per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Broken Climate Control Knobs
- Description/Symptoms: Plastic knobs on the climate control unit crack or break off.
- Solution: Replacement of the knobs or the entire climate control unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$400
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 BMW 335xi, while offering a sporty driving experience, is prone to several common issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to the fuel system (HPFP, injectors) and turbochargers, are frequent and can be costly to repair. Oil leaks are also common. Suspension issues, such as control arm bushing failure, can affect handling. Electrical problems, including battery drain and FRM failure, can also be frustrating. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major repairs can easily exceed several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision and maintenance budget.