2016 BMW 328i xDrive

The 2016 BMW 328i xDrive is a popular compact luxury sedan known for its blend of sporty handling, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. The 328i xDrive is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2016 3 Series include a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (340i), and a diesel 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (328d). All 3 Series models are available with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. The 328i xDrive configuration only came with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the 328i xDrive for its driving dynamics, fuel efficiency, and overall refinement. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, and some reported issues with the electronic systems.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (N20)

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine noise (rattling, grinding) especially on startup, check engine light, loss of power, and in severe cases, engine failure. This issue is primarily associated with earlier versions of the N20 engine. The plastic chain guides break, causing the chain to stretch and eventually jump timing.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, chain guides, tensioner, and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket and Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, visible oil residue on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gasket: $500 - $1,000; Oil filter housing gasket: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (GA8HP45Z)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush/replacement, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $200 - $400; Fluid flush: $300 - $500; Valve body replacement: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or complete failure of the iDrive infotainment system. Display screen issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $200 - $400; iDrive control unit replacement: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly, unusual noises when attempting to lock/unlock the door.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Adhesive Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The adhesive holding the exterior door handle to the door begins to separate, causing the handle to become loose or detach.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle and re-apply adhesive, or replace the entire door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive), or dashboard repair/refinishing (less expensive but may not be a perfect match).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+; Repair/refinishing: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW 328i xDrive, while generally a reliable vehicle, can suffer from several issues. The most concerning and potentially costly is the timing chain failure in the N20 engine. Oil leaks are also common. Transmission issues like rough shifting can also occur. Electrical problems with the iDrive system and door lock actuators are also noted. Interior issues such as cracked dashboards can detract from the vehicle’s overall appeal. While some issues may be minor, the potential for expensive repairs should be considered when evaluating a used 2016 BMW 328i xDrive. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and transmission fluid flushes, can help mitigate some of these issues.