2009 BMW 328i

The 2009 BMW 328i is a popular entry-level luxury sedan known for its engaging driving dynamics and refined styling. It comes standard with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, with an optional 6-speed automatic available. Owners often praise the 328i’s responsive handling, smooth engine, and comfortable interior. However, some common complaints include higher than average maintenance costs, electrical issues, and some problems with specific components.

Engine

N52 3.0L Inline-Six

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter housing, visible oil around the housing, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover, visible oil around the valve cover, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leak, engine temperature warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

GM 6L45R 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, difficulty shifting, slipping, rough shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, transmission malfunction light.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Getrag 6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noise from the suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic drain and repair or replace the faulty component (e.g., comfort access module, radio, faulty sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, clicking noise from the door panel.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CCC iDrive Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive screen going blank, system freezing, inability to control certain vehicle functions (radio, navigation, etc.).
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the CCC unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking, not opening, or becoming loose.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing correctly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, rails, or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 BMW 328i, while offering a satisfying driving experience, is prone to certain issues. Engine oil leaks (oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets), VANOS solenoid problems, and water pump failures are common engine-related concerns. The automatic transmission can suffer from mechatronic sleeve leaks and valve body issues. Suspension problems, electrical glitches (battery drain, power window regulators, iDrive failure), and interior/exterior component failures (dashboard, door handles) can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to costly repairs. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering a 2009 BMW 328i.