2010 BMW 328i

The 2010 BMW 328i is a popular luxury sedan known for its engaging driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and stylish design. The base engine for the 328i is a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-six, producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 328i for its balanced handling and smooth engine, while some common complaints involve repair costs and certain reliability issues as the car ages.

Engine

3.0L N52 Inline-Six

• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Visible oil stains around the oil filter housing are also common.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Visible oil stains around the valve cover are also common. Can cause misfires if oil contaminates spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased engine performance, and the check engine light illuminating with VANOS-related codes.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the VANOS solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit delayed or harsh shifts, or slip between gears. This can often be noticed when accelerating.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change, or rebuild/replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid/filter) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Cracked Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear can also occur.
  • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failing Power Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to move up or down, or moving erratically. Clicking sounds may be heard from inside the door.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Starter Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Car failing to start, clicking noises when turning the key, or intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust appearing on wheel wells, door panels, and other areas, especially in regions with harsh winters or salty roads.
  • Solution: Repair the rust by sanding, applying rust converter, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles (both interior and exterior) sticking or being difficult to use.
  • Solution: Lubricate or replace the door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 BMW 328i, while offering a rewarding driving experience, can be prone to certain issues as it ages. Engine oil leaks (oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets) are fairly common and can lead to noticeable expenses. Suspension issues, particularly with the control arm bushings, can affect handling. Electrical problems, such as failing power window regulators and starter motors, can also occur. While most issues are not catastrophic, the cumulative cost of these repairs can be significant, making pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance crucial.