2018 BMW 328d

The 2018 BMW 328d is a popular compact executive sedan known for its fuel efficiency and sporty handling. It’s equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2018 3 Series included various gasoline-powered options, such as the 2.0L turbo I4 (320i/330i) and the 3.0L turbo I6 (340i). All engine options were typically paired with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual (availability varied by engine and trim). Owners often praise the 328d for its impressive fuel economy and comfortable ride, but some have reported issues related to the diesel emissions system and other components. Common complaints involve the cost of maintenance and repairs associated with owning a European luxury vehicle.

Engine

2.0L Turbo Diesel (N47/B47)

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the EGR cooler can lead to coolant leaks, reduced engine performance, and potentially a fire hazard. Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and a sweet coolant smell are common indicators.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: The DPF can become clogged due to short trips and infrequent regeneration cycles. This leads to reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, and eventually a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF via a scan tool, or replacement of the DPF if severely clogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (forced regeneration) - $2000+ (DPF replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• NOx Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty NOx sensors can trigger a check engine light and affect the vehicle’s emissions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty NOx sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the DEF system, including faulty sensors, pumps, or injectors, can result in warning lights, reduced engine power, and failure to meet emissions standards. Crystalized DEF Fluid could clog the system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty DEF system component(s). This includes cleaning the lines and injector for crystallization.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional rough shifting, hesitation, or delayed engagement, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid change, or in severe cases, valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3000+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or cracking of the front control arm bushings, leading to clunking noises over bumps and degraded handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced excessive battery drain, particularly if the vehicle is not driven regularly. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain and repair or replacement of the faulty component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Occasional glitches or malfunctions with the iDrive infotainment system, such as screen freezes, system reboots, or connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, or in some cases, replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1000+ (control unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the door handles failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the sunroof not opening or closing properly, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 BMW 328d is a generally reliable vehicle, but certain issues are more prevalent than others. The most common complaints revolve around the diesel emissions system (EGR cooler, DPF, NOx sensors, DEF system) and the potential for rough shifting with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and iDrive malfunctions, also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. Addressing these problems promptly can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.