2017 BMW 320i xDrive

Introduction

The 2017 BMW 320i xDrive is a luxury compact sedan powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 180 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The 320i xDrive is praised for its handling, spacious interior, and advanced technology but criticized for its firm ride and high price.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Intake Valve Deposits
  • Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance, misfiring, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Intake valve cleaning with chemical solvents or walnut blasting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: A leaking oil filter housing gasket can cause oil leaks and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

Eight-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Uneven Tire Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven tire wear can be caused by misalignment, worn suspension components, or tire pressure issues.
  • Solution: Inspection and alignment of the suspension, replacement of worn components (e.g., control arms, bushings), or tire pressure adjustment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Rear Sway Bar End Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or broken sway bar end links can cause knocking noises, poor handling, and reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may discharge prematurely due to excessive parasitic draw or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Battery replacement or diagnosis of parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Electrical Gremlins
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems can manifest in various forms, such as flickering lights, power window failures, or infotainment issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V476000 (Electrical Short Circuit Risk)

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misaligned trunk lids can be difficult to close properly and may cause water leaks.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the trunk lid hinges or replacement of the trunk lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Door Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks may malfunction, causing difficulty in locking or unlocking the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V376000 (Door Lock Failure)

Interior

• Steering Wheel Vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel may vibrate excessively, especially at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the affected steering components (e.g., control arms, tie rods).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Interior Rattles and Squeaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior components may rattle or squeak due to loose fittings or worn seals.
  • Solution: Identification of the source of the noise and repair or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Summary

While the 2017 BMW 320i xDrive is a well-regarded vehicle, it is not without its issues. The intake valve deposits and oil filter housing gasket leak are common concerns, especially among vehicles with higher mileage. The electrical gremlins and door lock malfunctions have also been reported. However, most of the issues seem to be relatively minor and can be addressed with reasonable repair costs. The interior rattles and squeaks are more of an inconvenience than a significant problem. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues do not overshadow the vehicle’s positive attributes, such as its driving dynamics, technology, and elegant interior.