2017 BMW 340i xDrive

The 2017 BMW 340i xDrive is a popular sport sedan known for its performance and handling. The model year features BMW’s B58 inline-six engine, producing 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual transmission was also available, but less common. Other engine options for the 2017 3 Series include the 320i’s 2.0L turbo four-cylinder and the 330i’s higher-output version of the same engine. Owners appreciate the 340i’s smooth and powerful engine, responsive handling, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, some reliability concerns, and the somewhat numb steering feel compared to earlier BMW models.

Engine

B58 3.0L Inline-Six

• Oil Filter Housing/Oil Cooler Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the oil filter housing or oil cooler gasket. This can cause a burning oil smell, low oil levels, and eventually engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket and/or oil cooler gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Water Pump/Thermostat Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the water pump or thermostat housing, leading to overheating and potential engine damage. Symptoms include low coolant levels, warning lights, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and/or thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids can cause rough idling, reduced power, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per solenoid
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic

• Mechatronic Sleeve Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leakage of transmission fluid from the mechatronic sleeve (the electrical connector that passes through the transmission housing). This can cause rough shifting and low transmission fluid levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic sleeve and fluid service.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough or delayed shifts, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. This can sometimes be addressed with a transmission adaptation reset or fluid service, but may indicate more serious internal wear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid service, adaptation reset, or, in more severe cases, transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for service and reset; $3000+ for major repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the front control arm bushings, leading to vibrations at highway speeds, clunking noises, and degraded handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Degradation of the rear subframe bushings can cause a vague feeling in the rear end, clunking noises, and imprecise handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear subframe bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Occasional glitches, freezing, or unresponsive behavior from the iDrive infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or, in some cases, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 for software update; $500+ for control unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, particularly in vehicles with a lot of electronic options. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing a faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights may fail to function properly, leading to error messages or erratic beam patterns.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty headlight unit or associated module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters may fail to function or become excessively hot.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 BMW 340i xDrive is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of some potential issues. Engine-related problems, such as oil leaks and coolant leaks, can be relatively common and moderately expensive to fix. Suspension issues, particularly with the control arm and subframe bushings, can impact handling and comfort. Electrical glitches, while not always severe, can be annoying. The cost of repairs for these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for more major repairs. Performing regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help to minimize the risk of major issues.