2009 BMW 528i xDrive

The 2009 BMW 528i xDrive is a luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It produces 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides improved traction and handling in various conditions. Owners appreciate its spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and impressive performance, but some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

• N52B30 3.0L Inline-6
  • Valve Stem Seal Failure: Worn or damaged valve stem seals can cause excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the valve stem seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Fuel Injector Issues: Faulty fuel injectors can result in rough idling, engine misfires, and poor fuel economy. Solution: Replace the affected fuel injectors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: A failing timing chain tensioner can lead to a rattling noise, reduced engine performance, and potential catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• N51B30 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure: A faulty high-pressure fuel pump can result in engine stalling, reduced power, and potential engine damage. Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Turbocharger Boost Leak: A boost leak from the turbocharger can lead to reduced engine performance and increased exhaust smoke. Solution: Inspect and repair the boost leak. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Intake Manifold Flap Failure: Worn or broken intake manifold flaps can cause reduced engine power and rough idling. Solution: Replace the intake manifold flaps. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• 6-Speed Automatic (GA6HP19Z)
  • Solenoid Issues: Faulty solenoids can cause erratic shifting, transmission slipping, and delayed gear engagement. Solution: Replace the affected solenoids. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure: A failing mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s electronic functions, can result in severe transmission problems. Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• 8-Speed Automatic (8HP45Z)
  • Valve Body Issues: Worn or damaged valve body components can cause rough shifting, transmission slipping, and reduced performance. Solution: Replace the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Torque Converter Shutter Failure: A failing torque converter shudder can cause vibrations and a shuddering sensation during acceleration. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Lower Control Arm Bushings: Deteriorated or torn lower control arm bushings can lead to excessive play, abnormal tire wear, and reduced handling. Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Front Strut Mount Bearings: Worn strut mount bearings can cause clunking or rattling noises during suspension movements. Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear Shock Absorber Mounts: Failing rear shock absorber mounts can result in excessive vibration and noise from the rear suspension. Solution: Replace the shock absorber mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: A weak or failing battery can cause difficulty starting, loss of power, and electrical problems. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Alternator Failure: A faulty alternator can lead to insufficient electrical power, reduced battery charging, and electrical system malfunctions. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Electrical Wiring Harness Issues: Damaged or corroded electrical wiring harnesses can cause a variety of electrical problems, including intermittent issues, component failures, and even fires. Solution: Repair or replace the affected electrical wiring harnesses. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: Moisture or condensation inside the headlight assemblies can impair visibility and damage electrical components. Solution: Inspect and replace the damaged headlight assemblies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Sunroof Drain Plugs: Clogged or damaged sunroof drain plugs can result in water leaks into the cabin. Solution: Clean or replace the sunroof drain plugs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Rear Bumper Reinforcement Cracking: The rear bumper reinforcement can crack or break due to stress or impact damage. Solution: Replace the rear bumper reinforcement. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Heated Seat Failure: Malfunctioning heated seats can fail to provide heat or overheat. Solution: Repair or replace the affected heated seat elements. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Central Information Display Malfunction: The central information display may experience glitches, freezing, or other issues. Solution: Update or replace the software or affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Heater Core Leak: A leaking heater core can cause coolant leaks, fogging on the windshield, and unpleasant odors. Solution: Replace the heater core. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Summary

The 2009 BMW 528i xDrive offers a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, but like any vehicle, it is not without its potential issues. While some of the reported problems can be costly to repair, many of them are relatively minor and can be addressed proactively with regular maintenance and inspections. The overall reliability of this model is generally considered to be average, with varying severity and costs of issues depending on the specific component affected.