2011 BMW 328i

Introduction:

The 2011 BMW 328i is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.0L inline-6 engine, delivering 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The 328i is praised for its balanced handling, comfortable interior, and impressive performance, but it has also been noted for certain issues.

Engine

N52 3.0L Inline-6

• Valvetronic system failure:
  • Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, engine warning lights
  • Solution: Replace the Valvetronic actuator or motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS system failure:
  • Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replace the VANOS solenoid or actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil leaks from valve cover gasket:
  • Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine or under the car
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic

• Torque converter failure:
  • Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or loss of power during shifting
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mount bearing failure:
  • Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear subframe cracking:
  • Symptoms: Strange noises from the rear suspension, misalignment of wheels
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rear subframe
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: 15V-557

Electrical

• Battery discharge issues:
  • Symptoms: Dead or weak battery, even after a jump start
  • Solution: Check and replace faulty components, such as the alternator or battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Xenon headlight ballast failure:
  • Symptoms: Headlights not functioning, flickering, or dimming prematurely
  • Solution: Replace the ballast
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible top issues (convertible models only):
  • Symptoms: Top not opening or closing properly, leaks, or tears
  • Solution: Repair or replace the convertible top mechanism or fabric
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 14V-046, 14V-361
• Paint delamination on rear bumper:
  • Symptoms: Paint peeling or bubbling on the rear bumper
  • Solution: Paint repair or bumper replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• iDrive system freezing or crashing:
  • Symptoms: Touchscreen not responding, system becoming unresponsive
  • Solution: Software update or hardware replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat memory failure:
  • Symptoms: Seats do not move to programmed positions or lose saved settings
  • Solution: Replace the seat memory module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof drain plugs leaking:
  • Symptoms: Moisture or water leaks inside the car through the sunroof
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof drain plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 BMW 328i offers excellent driving dynamics and a comfortable interior. However, it has also experienced various issues, ranging from minor problems like occasional electrical glitches to more significant concerns such as transmission failures and suspension problems. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be expensive to repair. Overall, the 328i remains a popular choice for drivers due to its performance and handling capabilities, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before making a decision.