2017 BMW 330e

The 2017 BMW 330e is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 7.6 kWh battery pack. The 2.0-liter engine produces 180 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motor adds an additional 87 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a combined output of 248 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The 330e is only available with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 330e for its blend of fuel efficiency and performance, as well as its comfortable ride and stylish interior. However, some common complaints include limited all-electric range and potential reliability issues related to the hybrid system.

Electric Motor

• Battery Capacity Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual decrease in the battery’s ability to hold a charge, leading to reduced all-electric range. Drivers may notice that the car’s range in electric mode is significantly less than the original EPA-estimated range.
  • Solution: Battery replacement or individual cell replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $15,000+ for full battery replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the electric motor, resulting in loss of electric driving capability and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Electric motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, especially during low-speed driving or when shifting between drive and reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, software update, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Charging System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to charge the battery, either through a Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V) charger. Error messages related to charging system malfunctions may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the onboard charger, charging port, or related wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or slow response of the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: LED tail lights failing, resulting in dim or completely non-functional lights.
  • Solution: Tail light assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per tail light.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, failing to open or close properly, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication or sunroof motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Summary The 2017 BMW 330e, while offering a compelling blend of efficiency and performance, is prone to several issues. The most severe and costly problems revolve around the hybrid system’s battery and electric motor, followed by transmission issues. Electrical glitches, particularly with the charging system and iDrive, are also fairly common. The severity of these problems can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s hybrid system, transmission, and electrical components before making a purchase.