2011 BMW 328i xDrive

The 2011 BMW 328i xDrive is a luxury sport sedan powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, and an eight-speed automatic transmission is optional. The 328i xDrive is praised for its sporty handling, refined interior, and powerful engine, but some owners have reported issues in various areas of the vehicle.

Engine

• N52 3.0L Inline-Six
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak: Oil may leak from the oil filter housing gasket, causing low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valvetronic Motor Failure: The valvetronic motor, which controls valve timing, may fail, causing a loss of power or stalling.
    • Solution: Replace valvetronic motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure: The water pump may fail, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Six-Speed Manual
  • Shifter Bushing Failure: The shifter bushing may wear out, causing difficulty shifting.
    • Solution: Replace shifter bushing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found
• Eight-Speed Automatic
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure: The mechatronic unit, which controls transmission functions, may fail, causing shifting problems or loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearing may wear out, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps. * Solution: Replace strut mount bearing. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 * Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure: The control arm bushings may fail, causing poor handling and excess noise. * Solution: Replace control arm bushings. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery may drain prematurely due to a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or other electrical issues. * Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Malfunction: The headlights may malfunction due to a faulty ballast, bulb, or wiring problems. * Solution: Diagnose and repair headlight system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Plugs: The sunroof drain plugs may become clogged, causing water to build up and leak into the cabin. * Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drain plugs. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• iDrive System Freeze: The iDrive infotainment system may freeze or malfunction due to software issues. * Solution: Update iDrive software or replace iDrive head unit. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Failure: The climate control system may fail due to a faulty blower motor, blend door actuator, or other electrical problems. * Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2011 BMW 328i xDrive offers an enjoyable driving experience, it is not without its issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, and various electrical, suspension, and interior issues can also affect the vehicle’s reliability. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used 328i xDrive and factor in the potential costs of repairs.