2009 BMW 528i xDrive

The 2009 BMW 528i xDrive is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The xDrive indicates it’s equipped with BMW’s all-wheel-drive system. The 528i is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing around 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2009 5 Series include the 535i (3.0L Turbocharged I6) and the 550i (4.8L V8). The available transmission options are a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. People often praise the 528i xDrive for its refined driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common complaints revolve around higher maintenance costs and potential electrical issues associated with older BMW models.

Category: Engine

Engine Option: 3.0L Inline-6 (N52)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gasket and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and whether it’s DIY or a shop.
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (variable valve timing) solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on labor.
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric water pump is known to fail, causing overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
• Belt Tensioner and Pulley Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn pulleys and faulty tensioners will result in a screeching noise. The belt can slip off, which can strand the car owner.
  • Solution: Replace the belt tensioner and worn pulleys.

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400

  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Transmission

Transmission Option: 6-Speed Automatic (GA6HP19Z)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission (GA6HP19Z) can experience slipping between gears or harsh/delayed shifts. This is often linked to low fluid levels or degradation of the transmission fluid, as well as failing solenoids.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed. Replacement of solenoids or a transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid/filter; $500 - $1000+ for solenoid replacement; $3000 - $6000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises, vibrations, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side, depending on whether you replace the bushing only or the whole arm.
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per pair

  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery may drain overnight or within a few days, especially if it’s not driven regularly. This can be caused by a faulty module not going to sleep.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic draw and replace the offending module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS, DSC, and brake warning lights on the dashboard, potentially accompanied by a loss of ABS function.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per sensor.
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system (navigation, entertainment, etc.) can freeze, malfunction, or not boot up correctly.
  • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software; $500 - $1500+ for control unit.
• Tail Light Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tail lights will fail over time, due to the bulb socket melting and causing poor contact.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light assembly

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+

  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Exterior

• Rust on Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the wheel arches, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per area.

Category: Interior

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated due to faulty seat occupancy sensor or other airbag system component.
  • Solution: Diagnose the airbag system and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Glove Box Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The glove box latch will break, causing the glove box to not close
  • Solution: Replace the glove box latch

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150+

  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2009 BMW 528i xDrive can be a great car, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine oil leaks, suspension component wear, and electrical glitches are among the most frequent problems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Addressing these common problems proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and performance. While many repairs can be DIY, some issues like electrical problems require specialty tools and expertise. The potential cost of repairs should be factored into the overall cost of ownership.