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2016 BMW 328d

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2016 BMW 328d is a popular choice for those seeking a blend of fuel efficiency and BMW’s sporty driving dynamics. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2016 3 Series include the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine in the 320i and 328i, the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 in the 340i, and a hybrid option. The standard transmission for the 328d is an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s fuel economy, handling, and overall build quality. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, occasional electrical glitches, and the sometimes-stiff ride, especially with the sport suspension.

Engine

2.0L Turbo Diesel (N47/B47)

  • EGR Cooler Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, “Check Engine” light. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) consumption may increase as well.
    • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler. Updated part designs are available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially during startup. If left unchecked, this can lead to catastrophic engine failure. (This issue is more prevalent in the N47 engine, which was used in earlier model years of the 328d, but can occur in later B47 engines as well)
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, “Check Engine” light, frequent regeneration cycles. Can lead to eventual DPF failure.
    • Solution: Attempt forced regeneration by a mechanic. If that fails, DPF replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (forced regeneration) to $2000+ (DPF replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable clunking or hesitation during gear changes, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission service including fluid and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or mechatronic unit replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (fluid/filter change), $1500 - $3000+ (valve body/mechatronic unit)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering sensation felt at low speeds or during light acceleration.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission service with fluid change or replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (fluid change), $1500 - $3000+ (torque converter replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Cracked Rear Subframe Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can cause vague handling.
    • Solution: Replace the rear subframe bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Damper/Shock Absorber Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oily residue on the shock absorbers, bouncy ride, reduced handling performance.
    • Solution: Replace the affected shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per shock absorber
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Faulty Door Lock Actuators
    • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly with the key fob or interior switch.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight or after a short period of inactivity.
    • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain and repair the faulty component. Common culprits include the comfort access system, infotainment system, and alarm system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the cause. $100 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • iDrive System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: iDrive screen freezing, rebooting, or displaying error messages. Navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Attempt software update. If that doesn’t work, the iDrive control unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update), $800 - $2000+ (iDrive unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Cracked Tail Light Housing
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the plastic tail light housing, allowing moisture to enter.
    • Solution: Replace the tail light assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per tail light
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking.
    • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks. If that doesn’t solve the issue, the sunroof motor or mechanism may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (lubrication), $500 - $1500+ (motor/mechanism replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW 328d is a generally reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine issues, particularly related to the EGR cooler and timing chain, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, while less frequent, can also be expensive. Electrical glitches and suspension wear are also areas to inspect. The overall cost of ownership can be higher than some competitors due to potentially expensive repairs. While some issues are more prevalent in earlier model years or with higher mileage, pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.

BMW, 328d
BMW 328d 2016
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