1998 Bmw 328i problems

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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.

1998 Bmw 328i

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Common 1998 Bmw 328i problems

The BMW 328i, produced in 1998, is known for its high-performance capabilities and luxurious features. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems that owners have reported over the years.

One of the most common issues with the 1998 BMW 328i is related to the timing chain. Many owners have reported that their timing chains would skip on the sprockets, causing the pistons and valves to collide, leading to engine stalls. This problem has been so prevalent that a class-action lawsuit was filed, alleging that BMW was aware of the issue but failed to address it. While BMW denied liability, they later settled the matter, providing an extended warranty for vehicles up to 8 years or 100,000 miles. However, owners still had to cover some of the repair costs.

Another common problem with the 1998 BMW 328i is related to the fuel system. Some owners have reported sudden loss of acceleration while driving, which has been attributed to failed fuel pumps. In other cases, the power steering and brakes have suddenly stopped working while the vehicle was moving, also due to broken fuel pumps. These issues can cause the vehicle to stall, posing a significant safety risk.

The 1998 BMW 328i's engine, known as the M52B28, is prone to oil leakage from the gasket and water pump failure, which typically occurs after 100,000 miles. Additionally, BMW's double-VANOS system, which is designed to improve engine performance, is prone to failure, resulting in rough idles and sudden drops in performance.

Other common problems with the 1998 BMW 328i include excessive car vibrations, which can be caused by worn flex discs or support bearings on the drive shaft. In some cases, the oil filter housing gasket may fail, causing oil to leak onto the driver's side of the engine. This can lead to the belt slipping off before jamming in the main seal behind the crank pulley, causing further damage.

Finally, the 1998 BMW 328i's tail lights may fail due to a faulty circuit board. This issue can be resolved by replacing the circuit board with a new one, which can be ordered through BreakerYard.com.

In summary, while the 1998 BMW 328i is a high-performance luxury vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems related to the timing chain, fuel system, engine, and other components. Owners are advised to be aware of these issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safe and reliable operation of their vehicles.

1998 Bmw 328i engine

What is the common problem with 328i?

The BMW 328i has many problems, with some of the most prominent ones being timing chain issues, fuel system failures, and electrical problems. Drivers have also complained about overheating A/C and heating systems as well as oil leaks in their BMW 328is, so be cautious if you plan on buying one.

Is the BMW 328i reliable?

The BMW 328i Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 19th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $773 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the 328i, so you may experience a few more visits to your BMW shop than normal.

Why are 328i so cheap?

Depreciation: Like most luxury vehicles, BMWs experience significant depreciation in their early years. This means that the value of a new BMW 328i can depreciate quickly, leading to more affordable prices on the used market.

What is the best year of BMW 328i?

What Is the Best BMW 328i Model Year? The fourth-generation E46 and ninth-generation E90 model years are all well-regarded and worthy contenders, but most have preferred to go with any model between 2006 and 2011, as well as the later model years that come with more technology.

What is the common problem with 328i?

The BMW 328i has many problems, with some of the most prominent ones being timing chain issues, fuel system failures, and electrical problems. Drivers have also complained about overheating A/C and heating systems as well as oil leaks in their BMW 328is, so be cautious if you plan on buying one.

Is the BMW 328i reliable?

The BMW 328i Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 19th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $773 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the 328i, so you may experience a few more visits to your BMW shop than normal.

What is the best year of BMW 328i?

What Is the Best BMW 328i Model Year? The fourth-generation E46 and ninth-generation E90 model years are all well-regarded and worthy contenders, but most have preferred to go with any model between 2006 and 2011, as well as the later model years that come with more technology.

Does BMW 328i last long?

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.

1998 Bmw 328i car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw 328i problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Bmw 328i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1998 Bmw 328i

The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Bmw 328i. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Bmw 328i vehicles.

2022-03-04

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-04
  • VIN: WBACD4326WA
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Bought car from third party with rebuilt title 333,000 miles currently and has been recertified by state patrol in 2015. Control cluster says taillight failure, and has issues with not starting. When jump started the car has reduced power with transmission limp mode light. Sometimes light comes on with limp mode, other time no limp mode at all. Have replaced taillights, battery and alternator with no fix. Still having reduced power, have to jump start my car and have a taillight failure. Cars front tires rub when turning even though all parts have clearance. Electrical problems surplus with this car. Everything from the radio, heater, transmission and taillights works intermittently.
2015-10-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-05-27
  • VIN: WBABK8327WE
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE BRAKE LIGHT CONNECTION IS BAD ON THE LEFT SIDE WHICH RESULTS IN THE BREAK LIGHT NOT TO WORK.
2013-08-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-08-06
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: BRAKE LIGHTS WARNING "BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE" KEEPS BEING DISPLAYED ACROSS THE CONTROL PANEL. I CLEAN THE TAIL LIGHTS AND BRAKES LIGHTS AND THE LIGHTS DID ILLUMINATE PROPERLY AFTERWARDS, THE WARNING GOES AWAY. THEN THE NEXT TIME I GET IN THE CAR A DAY LATER THE CONTROL SAYS "1 BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE" THEN THE NEXT DAY SAYS "BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE". *TR
2013-08-25

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-08-06
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING THE TRUNK OPENED UP. NOW THE TRUNK IS SHUT AND WILL NOT OPEN AT ALL. *TR
2013-01-30

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-07-19
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: BRAKE LIGHTS WARNING "BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE" KEEPS BEING DISPLAYED ACROSS THE CONTROL PANEL. I CLEAN THE TAIL LIGHTS AND BRAKES LIGHTS AND THE LIGHTS DID ILLUMINATE PROPERLY AFTERWARDS, THE WARNING GOES AWAY. THEN THE NEXT TIME I GET IN THE CAR A DAY LATER THE CONTROL SAYS "1 BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE" THEN THE NEXT DAY SAYS "BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE". *TR
2004-02-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-01-22
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING THE TRUNK OPENED UP. *AK THE LATCH CONTINUED SLIPPING AND THE TRUNK WOULD NOT LOCK. *SC
2003-12-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-10-14
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IN MY 1998 BMW 328I FAILED DUE TO BURNT FLUID AND OXIDATION. BMW PRODUCT LITERATURE CLEAR STATES THAT THE TRANSMISSION CONTAINS A "LIFETIME FILL" OF FLUID AND DOES NOT REQUIRE CHANGING. IN ADDITION, BMW DOES NOT INCLUDE A TRANSMISSION SERVICE IN ANY REGULARLY RECOMMENDED SERVICES AND NEVER RECOMMENDS THAT ONE BE PERFORMED. INTERSTING THOUGH, BMW RECOMMENDS THE USE OF DEXRON III/MERCON FLUID FOR THE TRANSMISSION. PRODUCT LITERATURE PUT OUT BY THE MANUFACTURERS OF THESE FLUIDS CLEARLY STATE THAT ALTHOUGH THE FLUID SHOULD LAST LONGER THAN NORMAL FLUID, IT STILL MUST BE CHANGED REGULARLY. EVERY ARTICLE REGARDING TRANSMISSIONS CLEARLY STATES THE TRANSMISSION SHOULD BE SERVICED AND THE FLUID CHANGED REGULARALY. BMW REFUSES TO STAND BEHIND ITS "LIFETIME FILL" CLAIM.*AK
2003-09-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WBACD432XWA
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY OUT THE AIR BAG DOOR COVER, WHEN THE VEHICLE HIT A CURB ON RAINY NIGHT, INSTEAD THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED DOWN THE DOOR AND BLEW OFF THE ENTIRE DOOR PANEL. INJURES WERE CAUSED AS A RESULT OF THE DOOR TRIM WHICH FLEW OFF AND HIT THE PASSENGER IN THE RIBS. PHOTOS ATTACHED. A FIELD ENGINEER TOOK PHOTOS AND THE VEHICLE WAS BEING USED IN A TRAINING SESSION BEING HELD THERE. *PH *JB
2003-05-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-23
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WBACD4321WA
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: 1998 BMW 328I - CRASHED GOING 35-40 MPH WITH EXTENSIVE FRONT END DAMAGE AND NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED.
2003-03-31

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-03-10
  • VIN: 9999
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NAR 03-31-2003 MR ENGINE GASKET FAILED WHICH ALLOWED WATER TO ENTER THE ENGINE. *CB
2003-01-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-28
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE REMOTE DOOR LOCK FUNCTION IS INOPERATIVE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER 2-3 TIMES, UNABLE TO REPAIR. PH
2001-05-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-08-11
  • VIN: WBACD4327WA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON 4 TIMES ALL OF THE 4 TIMES SAME PROBLEM, FUEL EXPENSION TANK PROBLEM. I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM REPAIR EACH TIME IT HAPPENS. EVERY SIGNLE TIME, THE DEALER TOLD ME THAT I HAD A BAD PART INSTALLED NOT THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE CAR ITSELF. ADDITIONALLY, THE BRAKE CIRUIT WARNING LIGHT CAME ON 6 TIMES WHILE I WAS IN ATLANTA,GEORGIA LAST YEAR. UPON RETURN TO ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA, BERT SMITH BMW FIXED IT. NOW, LAST WEEK THE BRAKE CIRCUIT WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN. THIS TIME, I AM IN MIAMI, FL AND PLAN TO TAKE THE CAR TO LAUDERDALE IMPORT. LDT./BWM AND THE CAR IS NOT LONGER UNDER THE MANUFACTURER WARRANTY LIKE THE FIRST TIME. PLEASE CHECK TO SEE IF THE PROBLEM I AM HAVING WITH THE CAR BECAUS OF MANUFACTURE DEFECTS. THANKS. *AK
2000-12-04

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-11-28
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WBACD4328WA
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE SUSTAINED A DIRECT HIT IN SIDE, BETWEEN BOTH FRONT PASSENGER'S AND REAR PASSENGER'S DOORS, AND SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. BMW HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
2000-07-27

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-05-19
  • VIN: WBACD4323WA
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: FUEL SENSORS FAILED. GAS GAUGE SHOWED FUEL BUT CAR RAN OUT OF GAS AT FREEWAY SPEED IN RUSHHOUR TRAFFIC. FUES SENSORS HAVE BEEN REPLACED 5 TIMES. THUS, I DRIVE MY CAR BY THE TRIP ODOMETER AND NOT THE FUEL GAUGE.BMW STATES PROBLEM IS DUE TO GAS IS CALIFORNIA. BMW STATES NOT A MANUFACTURERS' DEFECT.
2000-06-01

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-03-22
  • VIN: WBACD4326WA
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: DEALER PICKED UP CAR FOR OIL CHANGE AND PERFORMED AN ALIGNMENT WITHOUT REQUEST OR AUTHORIZATION. SINCE THEN CAR PULLS TO RIGHT. AFTER. *AK
1999-06-16

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-04-25
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WBACD3323WA
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDOW HAS AN AUTOMATIC UPWARD TOLL FEATURE WHICH GOES UP WITH ONE TOUCH ON THE POWER WINDOW BUTTON. BUT IT DID NOT STOP WHEN A FINGER GOT CAUGHT IN THE WINDOW AND WAS CUT OFF. THIS FEATURE IS ON ALL 4 WINDOWS. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
1999-05-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: LITTLE POWER UPON ACCELERATION, THEN CAR SURGES.SAFETY SWITCH IN IGNITION FAILED TO RELEASE KEY WHEN CAR WAS TURNED OFF AND IN PARK. AFTER 5 ATTEMPTS TO REPAIR, NOW INGITION WILL NOT ACCEPT KEY TO GO IN WHEN ATTMPTING TO START THE CAR. HE IGNITION. *AK
1999-02-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-10-01
  • VIN: WBJBG2327WE
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS CAP FAILED. *YC
1999-02-01

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-10-29
  • VIN: WBACD432OWA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: DIFFERENTIAL SEAL FAILED. *YC
1999-02-01

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-08-01
  • VIN: WBACD432XWA
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: GAS INDICATOR FAILED. *YC
1999-02-01

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-06-30
  • VIN: WBACD4324WA
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: SEATS ARE SQUEAKING AND RATTLING. YH
1999-02-01

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-06-30
  • VIN: WBACD4324WA
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: 4 WHEEL STEERING WHEEL AND ALIGNMENT IS OFF CENTER. YH
1999-01-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING AT 40 MPH AND HAD A SIDE COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE, AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1999-01-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-05
  • VIN: WBABG232XWE
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE,WITH BRAKES APPLIED, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL STUCK. THE ENGINE HAD REVVED UP PRIOR TO ACCELERATION. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER & INFORMED IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FEEDER. *AK
1998-11-23

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: BACD4326WAV
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE WENT FROM PARK TO DRIVE UNINTENDED ACCLERATION HAS OCCURRED ON THREE OCCASIONS, CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER CANNOT IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Bmw 328i problems:

Common problems to look for in 98' 328i?
Common problems to look for in 98' 328i?
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1539048-Common-problems-to-look-for-in-98-328i

Oct 8, 2010 ... Common problems to look for in 98' 328i? ... Two main issues are the suspension and the cooling system. At 140k it could be due for a complete ...

1998 BMW 328i Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
1998 BMW 328i Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-bmw-328i/problems

Top 1998 BMW 328i Problems · Oil Leaks From Lower Engine Area · Blower Final Stage Fan Resistor May Fail · Multiple Power Steering Hoses May Simultaneously Fail.

Looking at 96-98 328i or IS, what common problems should i look ...
Looking at 96-98 328i or IS, what common problems should i look ...
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?754941-Looking-at-96-98-328i-or-IS-what-common-problems-should-i-look-for

May 23, 2007 ... Every 15k miles there's a BMW inspection interval, so you should look at the items they do in that as well. As always, a well taken care of car ...

1998 BMW 328i Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1998 BMW 328i Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/bmw/328i/1998

The BMW 328i Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 19th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars.

1996 BMW 328i Reliability?
1996 BMW 328i Reliability?
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1725913-1996-BMW-328i-Reliability

Oct 8, 2011 ... I am considering a 1996 BMW 328i coupe or sedan and was wondering if anyone has had any reliability issues with thier own cars. Any information ...

Other years of Bmw 328i

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