2008 BMW 528i recalls and problems
The 2008 BMW 528i has 2 safety recalls and 118 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2008 BMW 528i vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2008 BMW 528i recalls
Recall 17V-683: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short can cause the parts within the PCV valve to melt, increasing the risk of a fire, even when the vehicle is not in use.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 13V-407: Exterior Lighting
Problem: BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housing of the connector resulting in an intermittent or permanent loss of functionality of one or more rear lamp functions (tail, brake, turn-signal, reverse).
Risk: Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear lamp bulb carriers free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
2008 BMW 528i problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Lighting | 34 | |
| Electrical System | 30 | |
| Air Bags | 22 | |
| Engine | 20 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 17 | |
| Power Train | 15 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 14 | |
| Seat Belts | 9 | |
| Unknown or Other | 7 | |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 2 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Crankcase (Pcv) — 4
- Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 4
- Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification — 4
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 2
- Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 90,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2008 BMW 528i complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW 528i years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2008 BMW 528i have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2008 BMW 528i: 17V-683 (engine and engine cooling), 13V-407 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 BMW 528i?
Owners report exterior lighting problems most often (34 reports), followed by electrical system (30). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 90,000 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.