2017 BMW 328d xDrive

The 2017 BMW 328d xDrive is a popular luxury sedan known for its fuel efficiency, sporty handling, and comfortable interior. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2017 BMW 3 Series include gasoline-powered 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (320i and 330i), a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder (340i), and a plug-in hybrid (330e). Transmission options included an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 328d’s excellent fuel economy and responsive diesel engine, while some criticisms include higher maintenance costs and potential for diesel-specific issues.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Diesel (N47/B47)

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, check engine light. This is a common issue on diesel engines, particularly those with EGR systems due to soot buildup.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, frequent regeneration cycles, DPF light illuminated, eventually leading to a clogged DPF.
  • Solution: Attempt forced regeneration (if possible), clean the DPF (if possible), or replace the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (cleaning) - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Diagnose which injector(s) are faulty and replace them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (per injector, including labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Mechatronic Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission malfunction warning. The mechatronic unit houses the transmission control unit and valve body.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the mechatronic unit. Sometimes a software update can resolve the issue, but often replacement/rebuild is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration, abnormal noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the suspension, particularly when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight, difficulty starting the car, various electrical malfunctions. Can be caused by a number of parasitic draws, including faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve replacing a faulty module or disconnecting an aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: iDrive screen freezing, system rebooting randomly, loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Update the iDrive software. If the issue persists, the iDrive module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues (Comfort Access)
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles not unlocking or locking with the Comfort Access system, requiring the key fob to be used.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle sensor or the entire door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ (per handle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks. If the problem persists, the sunroof motor or other components may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (lubrication) - $1000+ (motor or component replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW 328d xDrive is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues, particularly those related to the diesel engine’s emissions system (EGR cooler, DPF) and the 8-speed automatic transmission. Electrical gremlins and suspension component wear are also common concerns. Repair costs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to more significant expenses, especially when dealing with transmission or diesel-specific issues. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify any potential problems.