2009 BMW 328i

2009 BMW 328i

Overview

The 2009 BMW 328i, part of the E90 generation, is generally regarded as a solid performer with a good balance of luxury and sportiness. Powered by BMW’s renowned inline-six engines, it offers engaging driving dynamics. While it shares some common BMW traits, specific model year investigations reveal areas of potential concern that owners should be aware of. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into common problems, their symptoms, typical solutions, and estimated repair costs for various components and systems.

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Engine

3.0L N51/N52 Inline-6

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 and potentially the valve cover itself.
• Cost: $300 - $600

PCV System Failure

• Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, whistling noises from the engine, potential for oil leaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve and associated hoses.
• Cost: $200 - $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 (GA6HP19Z)

Mechatronic Sleeve Seal Leak

• Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, rough shifting, transmission warning lights, potential for transmission failure if not addressed.
• Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and seals.
• Cost: $400 - $800

6-Speed Manual

No widespread issues reported.

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

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

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

Electrical

General Electrical System

Power Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, clicking noises when operating the window switch.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400

iDrive System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, navigation issues, audio problems.
• Solution: Software updates or module replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body and Trim

No widespread issues reported.

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

Interior

Cabin Components

No widespread issues reported.

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

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 BMW 328i offers a compelling driving experience, and its inline-six engine is generally robust. However, potential owners should be aware of common issues such as oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, PCV system failures, and electric water pump malfunctions, which are relatively common for this era of BMW. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, can arise, often related to mechatronic sleeve seals. Electrical gremlins like power window regulators and iDrive system glitches are also documented. While not overwhelmingly problematic, these potential repairs can be costly, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection and budget for maintenance are advisable.