2018 BMW 440i xDrive

The 2018 BMW 440i xDrive is a popular luxury coupe/Gran Coupe known for its blend of performance and style. It’s powered primarily by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine (B58) producing 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Other available engines in the 4 Series lineup include the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (B48) in the 430i models. The 440i comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission; a 6-speed manual was also offered, but is less common. Owners often praise the 440i’s powerful engine, balanced handling, and luxurious interior, however, some dislike the relatively high maintenance costs, and some report issues with the infotainment system and electronic components.

Engine

B58 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from the valve cover gasket and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing gasket will fix the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic coolant pipes and expansion tank are prone to cracking and leaking. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked plastic components with new, preferably updated, parts. Upgraded aluminum options are also available from aftermarket brands.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and error codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

B48 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four (Less Common on 440i, but included for completeness)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: While less prevalent than in earlier BMW models, the B48 can experience timing chain stretch or failure. This can cause engine noise, rough running, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough or delayed shifting, especially when the transmission is cold. Some describe a “hesitation” when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid change using the correct BMW-approved fluid can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ for fluid change, $1500 - $4000+ for valve body or transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers (part of the Adaptive M Suspension) can fail, leading to a rough ride, uneven handling, and error messages.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Front control arm bushings wear over time, resulting in clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn bushings can also affect handling and alignment.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The iDrive infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity issues with smartphones.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In more severe cases, the iDrive control unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are generally free at the dealership, Control unit replacement: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive battery drain, especially when the car is left parked for extended periods. This can be caused by a faulty module or system not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the battery drain and replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, ABS sensors, oxygen sensors) can fail, triggering warning lights and affecting vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor (depending on the sensor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues (Comfort Access)
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles with Comfort Access (keyless entry) can fail, resulting in the inability to unlock or lock the doors using the handle sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters can fail, resulting in either no heat or inconsistent heat.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 BMW 440i xDrive is generally a reliable vehicle, but certain issues are more common than others. Engine-related problems such as oil and coolant leaks are prevalent, and electrical issues, especially with the iDrive system, can be frustrating. Suspension and transmission issues, while less common, can be costly to repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into the cost of ownership. The severity of issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs, with repair costs varying widely depending on the specific problem and the repair shop. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.