A typical camshaft position sensor (CPS) for a BMW 328i costs roughly $40 to $150 for the part itself, depending on whether you buy OEM from BMW or an aftermarket option; labor and related services add to the total if you’re not replacing it yourself.
The BMW 328i has appeared across several generations with different engines, so the exact sensor design and price can vary. This article outlines current price ranges, where to buy, and factors that influence total cost to help you shop confidently.
Price ranges by source
Prices for the CPS vary by supplier and by whether the part is original BMW equipment or a third-party alternative. The ranges below reflect common listings in recent markets.
- OEM BMW parts: typically $60–$150 for a new camshaft position sensor, depending on model year and seller.
- Aftermarket brands (Bosch, Dayco, Delphi, etc.): commonly $20–$90, with some premium aftermarket parts closer to $100–$120.
- Used or rebuilt units (salvage yards, auctions, or remanufactured): often $10–$40, with quality and warranty varying significantly.
Prices vary by region and availability. If you’re looking for the quickest, lowest-cost option, aftermarket sensors are typically the most economical; OEM parts offer guaranteed compatibility with your vehicle’s systems.
Installation and total cost considerations
Beyond the price of the sensor itself, labor costs, diagnostic checks, and any related repairs influence the total cost. Some shops may bill diagnostic fees or require additional work if wiring or connectors are damaged.
- Labor: Replacing a CPS can take about 0.5–2 hours, depending on engine layout; labor rates vary by region and shop, often around $70–$150 per hour.
- Diagnostics: Some shops include this in the service; others charge separately, roughly $20–$100.
- Related parts: Damaged wiring, connectors, or seals may require extra components, increasing the total.
If you’re comfortable with DIY tasks, you can save on labor by replacing the sensor yourself, following your vehicle’s service manual for the specific engine code.
Model-year and engine-type caveats
The BMW 328i designation spans multiple generations (for example E46, E9x, F30, and newer models) with different engine codes (M54, N52, N20, B48, etc.). Each engine family may use a slightly different CPS design or connector. Verifying the exact part number compatibility for your VIN is essential before ordering.
Variants by generation
The physical design and connector layout of the CPS can differ across engine families. Ensuring you select the sensor that matches your specific engine code (and not just the model year) helps prevent fitment issues.
Note on compatibility
To avoid incorrect fitment, pull your VIN and cross-check the part number with an official BMW parts catalog or a trusted retailer lookup before purchasing.
Where to buy and how to verify compatibility
Reliable sources include authorized BMW parts dealers, major auto parts retailers, and reputable marketplaces. Always confirm the exact part number and compatibility for your 328i’s year and engine code before purchasing.
- Authorized BMW parts retailers (dealer): high confidence in fit and warranty, typically at a higher price.
- Major online retailers (AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, RockAuto, etc.): broad selection and price comparison, need to verify compatibility.
- salvaged/used-parts marketplaces: lowest prices but variable quality and warranty.
Once you confirm the exact part number for your engine and year, you can shop with confidence and compare prices across these channels.
Summary
For a BMW 328i, the camshaft position sensor generally costs about $20–$150 for the part, with OEM parts at the higher end and aftermarket options at the lower end. Add labor if you’re not replacing it yourself, and verify engine-code compatibility to ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion: Knowing your engine code and year, and comparing OEM vs aftermarket options while factoring in installation costs, will help you replace a camshaft position sensor for a BMW 328i at a reasonable total price.