2010 BMW 328i xDrive

The 2010 BMW 328i xDrive is a popular choice for those seeking a blend of sporty handling, luxury features, and all-weather capability. It came equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine (N52B30) producing 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the E90 3 Series generation included the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six in the 335i and a diesel engine in the 335d. Transmission choices included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 328i xDrive for its responsive handling, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. However, common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury vehicles, potential for electrical gremlins, and certain engine-related issues, especially as the car ages.

Engine

3.0L Inline-Six (N52B30) with xDrive

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or oil pan gasket. Signs include visible oil on the engine, oil drips on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and whether you use a shop or DIY.
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, and potential check engine light. Diagnostic codes related to VANOS (variable valve timing) system.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential check engine light. The water pump on the N52 engine is electric and prone to failure with age.
  • Solution: Replace the electric water pump and thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, rough shifting, slipping gears, or inability to shift properly.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve. Replacing the fluid and filter at the same time is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Cracked Rear Subframe Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear of the vehicle, especially over bumps. Can affect handling and alignment.
  • Solution: Reinforce or replace the rear subframe mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the damage and chosen repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel vibration, uneven tire wear, clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when braking or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight, difficulty starting the car, various electrical malfunctions. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or aftermarket accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This might involve updating software or replacing a failing module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue. Diagnosis can be time-consuming.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Comfort Access System
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles failing to respond, inability to lock or unlock the car using the comfort access feature, frequent “key not recognized” errors.
  • Solution: Replace the affected door handle(s) or the comfort access module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door handle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• FRM (Footwell Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power windows, headlights stuck on, turn signals not working, interior lights malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Reprogram or replace the FRM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Wheel Arches/Fenders
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or flaking paint on the wheel arches, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel depending on the severity of the rust and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticking or Malfunctioning iDrive Controller
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive controller (knob) becoming sticky, difficult to rotate or press, or failing to respond to inputs.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the iDrive controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Light/Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard. This can be caused by a faulty seat occupancy sensor, clock spring, or other airbag-related component.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific cause of the airbag warning light and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found. However, check the NHTSA website for potential airbag recalls.

Summary

The 2010 BMW 328i xDrive, while offering a desirable driving experience, presents potential owners with several common issues. Engine-related problems such as oil leaks and water pump failures are prevalent, adding to the overall maintenance costs. Suspension issues like cracked subframe mounts can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the FRM module and comfort access system, can also be frustrating. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor (e.g., VANOS solenoids) to potentially major (e.g., subframe repair). The cost to address these common problems can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic essential before buying a used 2010 BMW 328i xDrive.