2008 BMW 528i

The 2008 BMW 528i is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The 528i came equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. A notable aspect of this generation 5 Series (E60) is its sleek design and well-appointed interior. Owners generally appreciate the car’s handling and overall driving experience. Criticisms often focus on the complex electronics and potential for costly repairs.

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 (N52)

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Can also lead to low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, and potential stalling. Check engine light illuminates with VANOS-related codes.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per solenoid
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electric Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, check engine light, and potentially coolant leaks. The N52 engine uses an electric water pump which is prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replace the electric water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, rough or jerky shifting, and slipping between gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement might help. In more severe cases, transmission repair or replacement is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also cause vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings. Often, it’s recommended to replace the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and potential fluid leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the iDrive system.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. More severe cases require replacement of the iDrive module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update) to $800+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Comfort Access Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the keyless entry and start system.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle sensors, key fobs, or the Comfort Access module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially if left sitting for a few days. Can be caused by a variety of parasitic draws.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles sticking or failing to open the door properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per motor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 BMW 528i, while offering a pleasurable driving experience, is known for its potential maintenance issues. The most common and costly problems often revolve around the engine (oil leaks, VANOS, water pump), transmission (slipping), and electrical systems (iDrive, Comfort Access). Addressing these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major component replacements. Potential buyers should factor in these potential maintenance costs when considering this model.