2010 BMW 528i
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2010 BMW 528i, formatted for your website.
The 2010 BMW 528i is part of the E60 5-Series generation. It offers a blend of luxury and performance that many owners appreciate. The 528i features a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing around 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2010 5-Series lineup include the 535i with a turbocharged inline-6, and the 550i with a V8. The 528i comes standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 528i for its comfortable ride, responsive handling, and stylish design. Common complaints center around maintenance costs, electrical issues, and some specific engine and transmission problems.
Engine
3.0L Inline-6 (N52 Engine)
- Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket/Oil Filter Housing)
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gasket and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the shop and parts used.
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can experience solenoid failures. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and a check engine light with VANOS-related codes.
- Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per solenoid, plus labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of coolant, overheating, and potential engine damage can result from a failing water pump
- Solution: Replace the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ depending on the shop and parts used.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (GA6HP19Z)
- Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
- Description/Symptoms: This sleeve seals the electrical connector to the transmission. It is prone to leaking transmission fluid. Symptoms include fluid on the transmission case, hard shifting, or transmission malfunction warnings.
- Solution: Replace the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, harsh or delayed shifts, or getting stuck in gear can be caused by a worn valve body.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings are a common issue. Symptoms include clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and imprecise steering.
- Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings. Often, it’s recommended to replace the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side, depending on the shop and parts used.
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid, bouncy ride, reduced handling
- Solution: Replace the struts/shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ for a pair, depending on brand and shop.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- iDrive System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience various issues, including freezing, slow response times, and display problems.
- Solution: Sometimes a software update can fix the problem. In other cases, the iDrive control unit or display screen may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,500+ (control unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Comfort Access Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The Comfort Access system (keyless entry and start) can be problematic. Issues include the system not recognizing the key fob, difficulty locking/unlocking the doors, and starting problems.
- Solution: Try replacing the key fob battery first. If that doesn’t work, the Comfort Access module or door handle sensors may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5 - (Key Fob Battery) - $500+ per door handle/module.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drain is a fairly common issue, often caused by a faulty module or a parasitic draw. This can lead to a dead battery overnight.
- Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the problem.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock with the key fob or interior switch.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500 per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can malfunction, including getting stuck open or closed, making excessive noise, or failing to operate smoothly.
- Solution: The sunroof assembly or motor may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cracked Dashboard Trim
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard near the instrument cluster or iDrive screen.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or specific trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2010 BMW 528i offers a luxurious driving experience, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly oil leaks and mechatronic sleeve failures, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins, especially with the iDrive system and comfort access, are also common. Suspension wear is typical for a car of this age. Overall, prospective buyers should be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs and should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified BMW mechanic.