The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 BMW 328i visibility problems
moderate Owners of the 2013 BMW 328i have filed 3 NHTSA complaints about the visibility at roughly $350 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See visibility across all vehicles →
Complaints
3
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$350
| Model year | visibility complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 328i | 6 |
| 2013 328i (this page) | 3 |
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering visibility on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full: Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full.There are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Low Washer Fluid Warning Light is illuminated when the Washer Fluid Tank is Full : The low washer fluid warning is illuminated even though the washer fluid reservoir is full. There are no faults stored in the system for the washer fluid level switch. A non-approved washer fluid was used that is silicone-based. Silicone-based fluids are not compatible with the contactless capacitive level sensor. Fluids that contain a silicone additive are normally colored other than blue.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗GROANING NOISE WHEN OPENING/CLOSING FRONT WINDOWS. A groaning noise can be heard from the front door(s) when opening or closing the power windows.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"Service Action: Program Control Units (FEM). One or more of the following situations may occur when using the windshield wipers: * After the wipers are switched off, they do not remain in the park position, but in the middle of the windshield. * The wipers continue to operate even when the ignition is switched off. * The wipers only partially moved when switched on. * Hazard warning lights flash permanently. * Vehicle locks and unlocks on its own. * Interior lights turn on by themselves. * The trunk lid cannot be opened. AFFECTED VEHICLES This Service Action involves F30 which were produced October 2011 to August 2012. In order to determine whether a specific vehicle has had this Service Ac
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had visibility trouble with your 2013 BMW 328i?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the visibility problem on the 2013 BMW 328i?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 3 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $350 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the visibility typically fail?
Based on the 3 complaints filed, visibility issues most often appear around 29,550 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $350 for visibility repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to visibility?
No active recalls currently cover visibility issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/BMW/328i.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.