2015 BMW 528i

The 2015 BMW 528i is a luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The 528i is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Other available engine options for the 2015 5 Series include a 3.0-liter inline-6 (535i) and a 4.4-liter V8 (550i). All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the 528i’s responsive handling, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. Common criticisms include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the iDrive infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (N20)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often stemming from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The N20 engine is known for timing chain issues, particularly with the chain tensioner and guides. Symptoms include a rattling noise on startup, rough running, and potential engine damage if the chain fails.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides. Newer kits often include updated parts to address the original design flaw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can experience solenoid failure, leading to rough idling, reduced performance, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (8HP45/8HP50)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough shifting, particularly between certain gears, or hesitation when accelerating. This can be caused by degraded transmission fluid or issues with the valve body.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement using BMW-approved fluid. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ for fluid flush; $1500 - $3000+ for valve body repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause a clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. It can also lead to vague steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with excessive battery drain, particularly if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a faulty electrical component not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the battery drain and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience occasional glitches, such as freezing, rebooting, or display malfunctions. Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues.
  • Solution: Attempt a software update or reset. If the problem persists, the iDrive controller or display screen may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for software updates; $500 - $1500+ for hardware replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The comfort access door handles sometimes fail, preventing the keyless entry and locking functions from working.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, such as sticking, failing to open/close, or excessive noise, can occur.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks or replace the sunroof motor/components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 BMW 528i, while a desirable luxury sedan, has some common issues. Engine oil leaks and timing chain issues on the N20 engine are of concern, potentially leading to costly repairs. Transmission issues, while not as widespread, can also be expensive to address. Electrical glitches and interior component failures add to the potential ownership costs. While not every 528i will experience all these problems, it is important to be aware of them before purchasing a used model. Thorough pre-purchase inspections and a well-documented maintenance history are crucial. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues can range from minor annoyances to major repairs, potentially making long-term ownership more expensive than other vehicles in its class.