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2013 BMW 328i xDrive

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2013 BMW 328i xDrive is a popular entry-level luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and practicality, especially with the added benefit of all-wheel drive. The most common engine is the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (N20) producing 240 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2013 3 Series include the 335i’s 3.0L turbocharged inline-six (N55) and the ActiveHybrid 3’s hybrid powertrain. Transmission options were primarily an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual, though the xDrive models are mostly equipped with the automatic. Owners often praise the 328i xDrive for its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Common complaints revolve around maintenance costs, occasional electrical issues, and the potential for oil leaks with the N20 engine.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (N20)

  • Timing Chain Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon start-up, especially when cold, is a common symptom. The engine may run rough or stall in more severe cases. Timing chain stretching or complete failure can cause significant engine damage. This is a well-known issue with the N20 engine.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioner is the standard repair. Updated parts are recommended to prevent recurrence.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Filter Housing Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the ground beneath the car, a burning oil smell, and visible oil seepage around the valve cover or oil filter housing are indicators of leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket is the usual fix.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gasket: $400 - $800, Oil Filter Housing Gasket: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased engine performance, and potential engine stalling can occur with a faulty VANOS solenoid.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six (N55)

  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Filter Housing Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the ground beneath the car, a burning oil smell, and visible oil seepage around the valve cover or oil filter housing are indicators of leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket is the usual fix.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gasket: $400 - $800, Oil Filter Housing Gasket: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP45Z)

  • Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the transmission housing, resulting in shifting problems or difficulty engaging gears.
    • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic sleeve and fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, hesitation during acceleration, and overall rough shifting performance.
    • Solution: Initially, a transmission fluid flush and software update might improve the condition. In more severe instances, replacing solenoids or the entire transmission may be needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush/Software: $300 - $500, Solenoid Replacement: $800 - $1,500, Transmission Replacement: $4,000 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Cracked/Broken Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or popping noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. The vehicle may sit unevenly.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 per pair (front or rear).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The car has trouble starting or the battery dies frequently.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic drain. Possible causes include a faulty module, improperly installed aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the cause, $100 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Door Lock Actuators
    • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator is an electrical device responsible for locking and unlocking the doors of a vehicle. A faulty actuator can cause a variety of issues, including failure of the door to lock or unlock with the remote or key, the door locking or unlocking intermittently, or the actuator making a loud buzzing or clicking noise.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty actuator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make grinding noises, or fail to open or close properly.
    • Solution: Inspection and cleaning of the sunroof tracks and mechanism. In some cases, the sunroof motor or entire assembly needs replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 BMW 328i xDrive, while a desirable vehicle, does have some common issues. The most prevalent and potentially costly issue is timing chain failure in the N20 engine. Oil leaks from various gaskets are also common and can accumulate over time. Transmission issues, like mechatronic sleeve leaks and harsh shifting, can also be expensive to resolve. Other issues, such as suspension and electrical problems, can add to the overall cost of ownership. While these issues should be considered, properly addressing them through preventative maintenance and timely repairs will ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

BMW, 328i xDrive
BMW 328i xDrive 2013
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