How Much Is a Camshaft Position Sensor for a BMW 328i?

A camshaft position sensor for a BMW 328i typically costs between $60 and $200 for the part alone, while total replacement at a shop usually runs between $200 and $500 including labor, depending on model year, engine type, and where you buy and install it. Prices vary significantly between OEM, aftermarket, and dealer sources.

What the Camshaft Position Sensor Does — and Why Its Cost Matters

The camshaft position sensor is a critical engine management component that helps the engine computer (ECU) control fuel injection and ignition timing. On BMW 328i models, a failing sensor commonly causes rough idle, hard starts, loss of power, and a check-engine light. Because the part is relatively small but essential, many drivers are surprised by how wide the price range is, particularly between dealership quotes and independent or DIY options.

Price Range for a BMW 328i Camshaft Position Sensor

While listings and labor rates change over time, current (late 2024) pricing from major online parts retailers, BMW dealers, and independent shops offers a reliable ballpark for what owners can expect to pay.

Typical Part-Only Price Range

The cost of the camshaft position sensor itself depends on whether you buy an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) unit or an aftermarket alternative, and on which engine your 328i has (N52, N20, N26, B48, etc.).

• Aftermarket sensor: approximately $60–$120 per sensor from well-known brands (e.g., Bosch, Vemo, Delphi, etc.).
• OEM-equivalent from BMW specialist retailers: usually $90–$150 per sensor.
• Dealer-branded BMW part: commonly $130–$200+ per sensor when purchased directly at a BMW dealership parts counter.
• Online discount pricing: sales and promos can push some quality aftermarket sensors down to the $50–$80 range.

These ranges reflect typical U.S. pricing in 2024 and can shift slightly by region, currency, and retailer, but they provide a realistic expectation for parts cost across most 328i model years.

Installed (Parts + Labor) Cost at a Shop

When you factor in professional labor, diagnostic time, and shop fees, the total bill increases but typically remains moderate compared to larger engine repairs.

• Independent BMW or European specialist shop: around $200–$400 total for parts and labor.
• BMW dealership service department: often $300–$500 total, sometimes higher in major metro areas with elevated labor rates.
• Labor time: usually 0.5–1.5 hours of billed labor, depending on engine layout and whether both intake and exhaust cam sensors are replaced.
• Diagnostic fee: shops may add $100–$180 for a full diagnostic scan if the car hasn’t been pre-scanned or misfires/other issues are suspected.

The spread between independent shops and dealers comes primarily from hourly labor rates and markup on OEM parts, but both typically stay within these general ranges for most 328i generations.

How Model Year Affects Sensor Pricing

The BMW 328i has spanned several generations and engines, and that influences which sensor you need and how much it costs. While the price differences are not dramatic, they are enough that checking your exact year and engine code is important.

E46 328i (U.S. market: 1999–2000)

Early BMW 328i models (E46 chassis) use older-style sensors that are widely available in both OEM and aftermarket form.

• Typical part price: about $60–$130 depending on brand.
• Labor: usually on the lower side of the range; relatively straightforward access.
• Common brands: Bosch, OEM BMW, Febi, and other European suppliers.

Owners of these older cars often opt for reputable aftermarket brands, as the price gap to dealer parts can be significant relative to the car’s value.

E90/E92 328i (2007–2013, primarily N52 engine)

The popular E90/E92 generation 328i with the N52 inline-six remains common on the used market, and parts supply is strong.

• Typical part-only cost: roughly $70–$140 per sensor.
• Frequently two sensors: intake and exhaust cam sensors; many shops recommend replacing both if one has failed and the other is original.
• Installed cost for one sensor: about $220–$380 at an independent shop, more at a dealer.

Because these engines are known for occasional sensor issues with age, many owners choose mid- to high-quality aftermarket parts to balance cost and reliability.

F30 328i (2012–2016, N20/N26 4‑cylinder turbo)

The F30 328i with the N20/N26 turbocharged four-cylinder has a different layout and slightly different sensor options than the older six‑cylinder cars.

• Part price: typically $80–$160 for a quality camshaft position sensor.
• Turbo engine packaging: access can be somewhat tighter than on the N52, modestly affecting labor time.
• Installed cost: usually $250–$450 for one sensor at most shops, with higher-end dealers possibly pushing that upper range.

Because the N20/N26 engines are more complex and often under warranty longer, many owners in this generation lean more heavily on OEM sensors, especially if the car is serviced primarily at BMW dealers.

Later 3 Series with Similar Engines

While the “328i” name was phased out in favor of 330i and other designations, the general pricing trend for camshaft sensors on newer turbo‑4 BMWs (e.g., B48 engines) remains in a similar range, usually trending slightly upward with newer part numbers and higher dealer labor rates.

• Part-only cost: commonly $90–$180 depending on brand and engine code.
• Installed cost: often $300–$500+, reflecting higher shop rates on newer cars.
• Warranty coverage: many newer models may still be under factory or extended warranties, potentially reducing out-of-pocket cost to zero.

For owners of late-model BMWs, checking warranty status before paying out-of-pocket is often as important as shopping around for part prices.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Does Paying More Make Sense?

For a camshaft position sensor, the choice between OEM and aftermarket can significantly impact your final bill while also influencing reliability and diagnostic confidence.

OEM (Genuine BMW or OEM Supplier)

Original equipment sensors come either directly in BMW packaging or from the same supplier (e.g., Bosch) that built the factory part.

• Pros: highest compatibility and reliability; reduces risk of sensor-related check-engine lights or drivability issues.
• Cons: typically 30–70% more expensive than budget aftermarket options.
• Best for: newer cars, vehicles under warranty, or owners prioritizing long-term reliability.

While OEM parts cost more, many technicians favor them for critical engine sensors because a faulty cheap sensor can send you back to the shop and add more labor and diagnostic costs.

Aftermarket (Quality Brands vs. Budget Options)

Not all aftermarket camshaft sensors are created equal. Reputable brands often match OEM performance, while very low-cost units can be hit or miss.

• Reputable brands: Bosch, Delphi, Vemo, and other European-focused manufacturers often offer near-OEM quality.
• Budget brands: ultra-cheap sensors (often under $40) sold through online marketplaces can have higher failure or fitment issues.
• Warranty: many aftermarket suppliers provide 1–2 year warranties, but return processes may be more cumbersome than with dealers.

For many older 328i models, a mid‑priced aftermarket sensor from a recognized brand offers a reasonable compromise between cost savings and reliability.

Labor, Diagnostics, and “Hidden” Costs

Beyond the price of the sensor itself, owners should be aware of other charges that can appear on a repair invoice.

Labor Time and Hourly Rates

Labor cost for camshaft sensor replacement is driven by access difficulty and local shop rates.

• Independent shops: commonly $110–$170 per hour for European vehicles in many U.S. markets.
• Dealers: often $170–$250+ per hour, depending on region.
• Billed hours: typically 0.5–1.5 hours depending on engine layout and whether other work is done simultaneously.

Actual wrench time may be short, but billing is based on standardized labor guides and the shop’s hourly rate, which explains why labor can rival or exceed the cost of the part.

Diagnostic and Shop Fees

Because camshaft sensor faults may coexist with other engine issues, shops often insist on running their own diagnostics before replacing parts.

• Diagnostic scan: usually $100–$180 if performed as a standalone service.
• Shop supplies / hazmat fees: typically $10–$40 added to many repair orders.
• Multiple codes: if other engine codes appear, additional testing may increase the final cost.

If you arrive with prior scan results or a clear fault code history, some shops may reduce diagnostic time, but most still charge at least a baseline fee to verify the issue themselves.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

Some BMW owners consider tackling camshaft sensor replacement at home, especially on older models with easier engine bay access. The decision largely comes down to skill level, tools, and tolerance for risk.

Potential Savings with DIY

Replacing the sensor yourself can substantially reduce the total cost if you are comfortable working on your car.

• DIY cost: typically just the price of the sensor ($60–$150) plus any basic tools you might need.
• Time required: for many 328i engines, 30–90 minutes for an experienced DIYer.
• Essential tools: a metric socket set, Torx or Allen bits (depending on sensor fastener), and a code reader or scan tool for verification.

For those confident in their mechanical abilities, DIY can cut the total bill by more than half, provided the diagnosis is correct and the replacement is done carefully.

When Professional Service Is Wiser

In some situations, paying a professional makes more sense than attempting a home repair.

• Complex engine bays: turbocharged engines with tight packaging can make access frustrating without experience.
• Overlapping issues: if the car has misfires, oil leaks, or timing-related codes, a shop’s diagnostic expertise is valuable.
• Warranty or resale concerns: dealership or specialist repair history can bolster warranty support and future resale value.

For many owners—especially of newer 328i models—the peace of mind, warranty coverage on labor, and professional diagnostic assurance justify the higher overall cost.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your 328i

Because of the variation by model year, engine, and region, the best way to dial in an exact price is to gather information specific to your car and local shops before scheduling the repair.

Information You Should Have Ready

Providing complete details when requesting quotes helps service advisors give more precise pricing and avoid surprises later.

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): allows parts counters to identify the exact sensor part number.
• Model year and body style: for example, 2011 328i xDrive sedan (E90), or 2013 328i (F30).
• Engine type: N52 inline‑six vs. N20/N26 turbo four-cylinder.
• Symptoms and codes: any check-engine codes read by a scan tool (e.g., P0340/P0341) and descriptions of drivability issues.

With this data, parts stores, dealers, and independent shops can quote both parts and labor far more accurately than with a model name alone.

Where to Shop for the Best Price

Different sources will prioritize cost, convenience, or brand assurance, so comparing at least two or three can be worthwhile.

• BMW dealerships: highest likelihood of OEM parts and brand expertise, but usually the most expensive total repair cost.
• Independent European specialists: strong BMW familiarity with lower labor rates and flexible parts options (OEM or quality aftermarket).
• Online parts retailers: often the best prices on individual sensors if you’re doing DIY or supplying your own part.
• General repair shops: may offer competitive labor rates but vary in BMW-specific experience.

Balancing expertise, convenience, and cost often leads many 328i owners to independent BMW-focused shops for this type of repair, especially once the vehicle is out of warranty.

Summary

A camshaft position sensor for a BMW 328i usually costs around $60–$200 for the part, and $200–$500 in total when installed by a professional shop, depending on the model year, engine, and where you source the component. Older E46 and E90 models tend to sit at the lower end of the range, while newer turbocharged F30 cars can edge higher, especially at dealerships. Choosing between OEM and reputable aftermarket brands, deciding whether to DIY or use a professional, and shopping around with your VIN and engine details in hand are the key steps to keeping this essential repair within a predictable and reasonable budget.