Bmw 328i problems
The sixth generation of the BMW 3 Series consists of the BMW F30 (sedan version), BMW F31 (wagon version, marketed as 'Touring') and BMW F34 (fastback version, marketed as 'Gran Turismo') compact executive cars. The F30/F31/F34 generation was produced from October 2011 to 2019 and is often collectively referred to as the F30.
For the sixth generation, the coupé and convertible models were spun off to create the new BMW 4 Series nameplate. BMW also introduced a separate hatchback model under the 3 Series nameplate called the 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34).
The F30 is the first generation of 3 Series to be powered by a range of turbocharged engines exclusively and electric power steering (replacing the hydraulic power steering systems used previously). The F30 also marked the 3 Series' first use of a three-cylinder engine in its 2015 facelift. A new plug-in hybrid F30 model was also introduced in 2016. A long-wheelbase sedan version (model code F35) was sold in China.
The M3 model (designated F80) was introduced in 2014 and is powered by the S55 twin-turbocharged straight-six engine.
In March 2019, the BMW 3 Series (G20) was released as the successor to the F30. But the F34 fastback model continued to be available until early 2020. Later, it was replaced by BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé (G26) in June 2021.
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Bmw 328i model years
Common Bmw 328i problems
The BMW 328i, a popular choice among drivers, is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners across various model years. One of the most prominent issues is related to the vehicle's timing chain. Many owners have complained that their timing chains would skip on the sprockets, impeding the proper operation of the crankshafts and camshafts.
Another common complaint about the BMW 328i is fuel system failures. One driver reported that their vehicle suddenly lost acceleration while driving at 55 mph. Upon inspection, a mechanic determined that a failed fuel pump was the culprit. In other cases, the power steering and brakes have suddenly stopped working while the vehicle was moving at 45 mph, often due to a broken fuel pump. The pump can implode and contaminate the system with metal bits, causing the vehicle to stall.
Electrical problems are also a common issue in the BMW 328i. The 2014 model year, in particular, has been plagued by electric water pump failure, which is the worst problem category for this model year.
When it comes to the 2013 BMW 328i, there are two significant issues that owners should be aware of. The timing chain system is a known weak point and has been reported to fail, even in vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected.
In summary, the BMW 328i has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including timing chain issues, fuel system failures, and electrical problems. While these issues can result in costly repairs, maintaining precise and regular maintenance can help extend the vehicle's lifespan and ensure its reliability.
Is the BMW 328i a reliable car?
Though popular, the BMW 328i has received middling reliability scores from drivers all over the world, scoring only 2.5 out of 5 stars by RepairPal. The BMW 328i has many problems, with some of the most prominent ones being timing chain issues, fuel system failures, and electrical problems.
Why are used 328i so cheap?
According to motorbiscuit.com, one reason for the affordability of used BMWs is that the market is wildly oversaturated. They are also: Expensive to own: BMWs are pricey to maintain, and broken parts can be costly. Residual value: The residual value for these cars is not very high.
What is the life expectancy of a 328i?
200,000 to 250,000 miles
You can expect your 3 Series to last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained. Is the BMW 3 Series reliable? Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering, the 3 Series is a durable, long-lasting, and dependable car. Learn more from the experts at BMW of Greenwich.
What is the problem with the BMW 328i engine?
And misfires tensioners failure that can cause engine noise. And timing issues. These problems can affect the reliability. Safety and fuel economy of the vehicle. Cooling.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 328i years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 328i cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 328i model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 328i model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 328i years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw 328i car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 328i , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 328i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 328i model years
A total of 108 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 328i model years
There were a total of 48 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 328i model years
There were a total of 86 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by 328i model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1499 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 328i . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 328i vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw 328i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: WBAPH5C52BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Recall for 2011 BMW 328i PCV Heater valve was conducted on or around March 12, 2023 at my local BMW private shop Bimmer Engineering located in Lancaster, CA. After service was performed was contacted by BMW representative that this service I paid out of pocket would be reimbursed, but would need to take to BMW dealership to be inspected to ensure BMW part had been replaced properly and with the authorized OME part manufactured by BMW. Vehicle was inspected at the Valencia BMW dealership on or around March 15, 2023 and verified manufactured part was replaced properly. After submitting a claim, letters, and invoices to BMW North America which concluded roughly a year later. I was informed that the reimbursement would not be honored due to recall not affiliated and TREAD ACT does not apply. This information was provided on or around October 11, 2024 by Executive Customer Care Relations and Services Specialist Kurt Westrich.
Bmw 328i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: WBAPK7C58BA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The vehicle owns a 2011 BMW 328i. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure recurred several times while driving on the same day. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle shuddered and surged. The vehicle was taken to the O'Reilly, where diagnostic trouble code P054B, which indicated a VANOS bolts failure, was retrieved. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000(Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the dealer charged a diagnostic fee and informed the contact that the vehicle would need to be diagnosed for 2 hours prior to the recall repair. The contact denied to pay the fee. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Bmw 328i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: WBA3A5C51FP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact’s mother owns a 2015 BMW 328I. The contact stated that occasionally while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated with a message to “Drive with Caution” displayed. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the failure was remedied; however, the failure persisted. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) and linked the failure to the recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage 134,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 328i 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: WBA3A5G59CN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 BMW 328I. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 MPH, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 328i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: WBA3B3C53DF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine Timing Chain and Oil pump drive chain modules failed. I found this from BMW website that Defect Code: SI B11 03 17: For this vehicle the timing chain and the oil pump drive chain modules (N20, N26 engines) limited Warranty for in defects in materials or workmanship has been extended to 7 years / 70000 miles as determined from the original in-service date. This coverage is subject to the same vehicle eligibility requirements, limitations, and exclusions that apply to the BMW New vehicle limited warranty for passenger cars and light trucks. for eligible vehicles that are beyond this 7/70 coverage, please refer to SI B11 02 21 for additional coverage that may also apply. I filed a case directly with BMW of NA - they told me get it towed to BMW dealership and get it diagnosed, I followed the instructions and got it diagnosed. BMW dealership confirmed the main cause was the Timing chain broke and engine seized. but BMW declined to do anything about it. please see the link by BMW below: [XXX] $ INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw 328i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WBA3B5G59DN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 BMW 328I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts unavailable.
Bmw 328i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBA3C1C58FP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2015 BMW 328i. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, and while at a complete stop, there was smoke coming from underneath the hood and through the A/C vents. The contact stated that the vehicle was overheating. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the A/C only blew hot air. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the timing belt, the oil gasket, the oil pan, and unknown fuses were replaced; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was smoke coming from the A/C vents and from the charging port. The contact stated that the infotainment system then caught on fire. The contact exited the vehicle. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with two extinguishers and with the assistance of the fire department. A fire department report was filed. No police report was filed. The vehicle was towed and totaled. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the fire had not occurred due to a manufacturing defect. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System), which she related to the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.
Bmw 328i 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WBA3A5C5XEJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2014 BMW 328i. The contact stated that while at a complete stop at the red traffic light, the contact noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled to the side of the road. A bystander advised the contact to exit the vehicle immediately. The contact and his best friend occupying the front passenger's side seat exited the vehicle. The contact stated that the hood immediately burst into flames. There was no injury sustained. The fire was extinguished by the fire department. The contact did not know whether the fire department filed a report and whether the police department filed a report. The contact stated that the vehicle burned to the ground from the front end of the vehicle to the rear seats. The vehicle was towed and totaled. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System), which the contact related to the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Bmw 328i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: WBA3C1G52DN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CRASHNo FIRENo INJURIES0 DEATHS0 Driving to work and the engine oil pressure warning came up and the car began to decelerate and once completely stopped the power train malfunction warning popped up was told it’s the timing chain which has been common problem with this model
Bmw 328i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: WBA3B5C56DF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 BMW 328I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 328i 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: WBA3X5C56ED
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 BMW 328I. The contact received notified notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated upon turning on the heat or the A/C, there was an abnormal loud sound coming from under the hood. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed; however, the contact declined because there was no loaner vehicle available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 328i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: WBA3B3G5XFN
- Components: ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact’s son owns a 2015 BMW 328I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System). The contact stated that while his son was driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was not able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and it was determined that the timing chain had failed, causing the engine to seize. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 137,000.
Bmw 328i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: WBAPH5C53BF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: There is a Voluntary Safety Recalled #23V707 issued for my 2011 BMW 328i that deals with the Vanos Solenoid. My VIN is not included on this recall per website. My check engine light diagnosis shows a vanos solenoid issues. Dealership replaces vanos solenoid. Light comes back on, now the whole unit needs to be replaced. I separately went to a German mechanic and he communicated two times that my issue should be covered under the recall. How is this not associated with the safety recall issued in October 2023? Wouldn’t faulty bolts directly impact the engine and cause the whole unit problems? I feel terrified driving my car as I transport my elderly parents and fear for our safety.
Bmw 328i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: WBA3C1G59DN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My name is [XXX] I have 2013 bmw 328i that has a safety recall Vin [XXX] CAMPAIGN ID: 24V608000 Engine coolant pump problem It’s been 4 months with no help from bmw .I contacted the dealer and they said there’s nothing they could do right now, but I believe its causing the part not to work anymore and it’s causing other problems that’s related to this issue. I will have to hire an attorney because there’s no remedy available and it’s causing we’re on my other parts of the car. Please if you can help or recommend what to do, I’d appreciate it. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Bmw 328i 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: WBA3B3C51FJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 BMW 328I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw 328i
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 70 recalls for different components of the Bmw 328i.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw 328i 2015
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 328i 2014
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 328i 2012
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 328i 2016
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 328i 2013
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-13
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:PUMP
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2015 X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2012-2016 Z4 sDrive28i, 528i, 528i xDrive, 328i, 328xi, 2016-2018 X5 xdrive 40e, 2014-2016 228i, 228xi, 428i, 428i xDrive, 328xi Gran Turismo, 2013-2017 X3 sDrive28i, X3 xDrive28i, 2015-2018 X4 xDrive28i, 2015-2016 428xi vehicles. An improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the water pump and plug connector as necessary, and install a protective shield, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
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