2014 BMW 328d xDrive

The 2014 BMW 328d xDrive is a popular luxury sedan known for its fuel efficiency and sporty handling. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2014 3 Series include the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (320i/328i) and a 3.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (335i). The 328d xDrive comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the car’s fuel economy and engaging driving experience, while common complaints often revolve around reliability, particularly with the diesel emissions systems and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

2.0L Diesel (N47)

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, “Check Engine” light, and potential for engine overheating. The EGR cooler can crack internally, allowing coolant to leak into the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, “Check Engine” light, and a warning message indicating a clogged DPF. Short trips and infrequent regeneration cycles can contribute to DPF clogging.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration by a mechanic or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (forced regeneration), $1500 - $3000+ (DPF replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues (Early Production)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, particularly on startup or idle. Worn or stretched timing chain can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP45 8-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete loss of drive. The mechatronic unit is the control module within the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the mechatronic unit, including valve body components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, particularly during lockup of the torque converter.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Cracked Rear Subframe Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the rear suspension, particularly over bumps. Can lead to imprecise handling.
  • Solution: Replace rear subframe bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Glow Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, particularly in cold weather, and “Check Engine” light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. Can be caused by a faulty module that doesn’t shut down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain, potentially involving replacement of a faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis), $300+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles will not recognize when a person is touching the sensor to unlock the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• iDrive Controller Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive controller knob will not respond, will only move in certain directions, will get stuck, or move erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the iDrive controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 BMW 328d xDrive is a generally reliable car, but owners should be aware of potential issues, particularly those related to the diesel engine’s emissions system. The EGR cooler and DPF are common failure points that can be costly to repair. The transmission mechatronic unit is another area of potential concern. While these issues can be expensive, preventative maintenance and addressing symptoms early can help mitigate potential problems. The severity of the issues range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.