2012 BMW 528i

The 2012 BMW 528i is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The standard engine for the 528i in 2012 was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2012 5 Series lineup included a 3.0-liter inline-six (535i) and a 4.4-liter V8 (550i). The 2012 528i was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish interior. However, some owners have reported issues with reliability, particularly with electrical components and certain engine components.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (N20)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common complaint, often originating from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips, oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket is the common solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the timing chain and related components, especially in earlier production N20 engines. Symptoms include a rattling noise upon startup, engine misfires, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, guides, and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The High Pressure Fuel Pump can fail, leading to issues with the fuel supply to the engine. The engine can start rough, misfire, lack power and/or not start.
  • Solution: Replacing the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP45Z)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can also manifest as a hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission software update can address the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary. Fluid changes may also help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $3,000+ (valve body repair/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can lead to vibrations, clunking noises, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can lead to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a faulty module not going to sleep.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the faulty module causing the drain. This requires diagnostic testing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the module.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idrive Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system can experience various malfunctions, including screen freezing, system reboots, and unresponsive controls.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. In other cases, replacement of the iDrive controller or head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,500+ (component replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator can fail, causing the doors to not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handle can break, leading to the inability to open the door from the outside.
  • Solution: Replacing the exterior door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions can include getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 BMW 528i, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is prone to certain common issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to oil leaks and timing chain issues in the N20 engine, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and suspension component wear also contribute to the overall ownership cost. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but it’s essential for prospective buyers to be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing.