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2016 BMW 428i xDrive Gran Coupe

The 2016 BMW 428i xDrive Gran Coupe is a four-door coupe that offers a blend of sporty handling and practicality. The model you specified comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine is also available in the 435i model, producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. All models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s sleek design, comfortable ride, and responsive handling. Common complaints include the relatively small rear seats, limited cargo space compared to a traditional sedan, and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (N20/N26)

  • Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket:
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss. Visible oil around the valve cover and down the side of the engine block.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. In some cases, the entire valve cover needs to be replaced if it is warped or cracked.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Potential for complete timing chain failure, which can cause significant engine damage. This issue is more prevalent in earlier N20 engines, but still possible in the 2016 model year.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks:
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant warning light, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle, overheating. Common leak points include the coolant expansion tank, hoses, and water pump.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the source of the leak)
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation:
    • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or harsh shifts, hesitation when accelerating, particularly between certain gears.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to check for valve body issues or mechatronic unit failure. In extreme cases, a full transmission replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (fluid/filter), $1,500 - $4,000+ (valve body/mechatronic unit), $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Cracked or Broken Coil Springs:
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, sagging of the vehicle on one side.
    • Solution: Replace the cracked or broken coil spring(s). It is generally recommended to replace coil springs in pairs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per pair)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Control Arm Bushings:
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, vibrations at higher speeds, clunking noises from the suspension when going over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the work)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially if the car is left sitting for a few days. This can be caused by a faulty sensor or module that doesn’t fully shut down, or by the car’s computer system not going into a proper sleep mode.
    • Solution: Perform a parasitic drain test to identify the source of the drain. Once identified, replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • iDrive System Malfunctions:
    • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive system freezes, restarts unexpectedly, or displays error messages.
    • Solution: Try resetting the iDrive system by holding the volume knob down for an extended period. If the problem persists, the iDrive module may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Water Leaks into Tail Lights:
    • Description/Symptoms: Condensation or water accumulation inside the tail light housings. This can lead to corrosion and bulb failure.
    • Solution: Reseal the tail light housings or replace the tail light assemblies.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (per tail light)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof won’t open or close properly, makes grinding noises, or leaks water.
    • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks and clean/lubricate them. If the problem persists, the sunroof motor or mechanism may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 BMW 428i xDrive Gran Coupe can be a desirable vehicle, but it’s not without its potential issues. Engine problems, particularly oil leaks and timing chain concerns with the 2.0L turbo engine, are common and can be costly to address. Transmission issues, while not as widespread, can also lead to significant expenses. Suspension and electrical issues can also arise, adding to the ownership costs. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be major and require extensive repairs. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used 2016 428i xDrive Gran Coupe before purchasing. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

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