Common problems · BMW
BMW 1 Series common problems and recalls
17 sourced problems across the 1 Series's generations since 2012, plus 20 DVSA recalls. Enter a registration to see the ones that apply to your exact car.
Free · no signup · recalls, MOT data and researched problems
1 Series (Mk4, F70) (2024 on)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
None that we hold for this generation.
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersCooling
If it has the BMW B58 3.0 turbo petrol: 3.0 turbo petrol (B58): coolant leaks, often at the oil filter housing
The B58 six-cylinder turbo petrol has a reputation for slow coolant loss. The oil filter housing, which also carries the oil-to-coolant heat exchanger, can leak coolant and oil; leaks are also reported from the water pump, and on some cars the loss is simply the expansion-tank cap. Check the coolant level regularly — the low-level warning can be slow to appear.
Applies to: BMW with the 3.0 six-cylinder turbo petrol (B58), built 2015 onwards: M140i, M240i, 340i/M340i, 440i/M440i, 540i, 640i GT, 740i, 840i, X3/X4 M40i, X5/X6/X7 40i and Z4 M40i, including the six-cylinder plug-in hybrids
- Reported by 2 publishersEngine
If it has the BMW/MINI B48 2.0 turbo petrol: 2.0 turbo petrol (B48): oil filter housing can crack and leak
On the B48 four-cylinder turbo petrol the plastic oil filter housing, which also carries coolant, can crack or leak at higher mileages, letting out oil, coolant or both; in the worst case the two mix. On MINIs it is reached from underneath the engine, which adds to the labour.
Applies to: BMW and MINI with the 2.0 four-cylinder turbo petrol (B48), built 2014 onwards — e.g. BMW 120i, 220i, 320i/330i, 420i/430i, 520i/530i, X1/X2/X3 20i, Z4 sDrive20i/30i; MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works
DVSA recalls for the 1 Series (Mk4, F70)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Seat Belt Rear Outer SeatsR/2025/443 · 23/10/2025
On affected vehicles either one or both of the outer most rear seats may not have been manufactured correctly and the sensitivity sensor may be deformed. If the sensor is not functioning correctly there is a risk the seat belt may not operate as intended.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the affected seatbelts will be checked and replaced.
Listed for: X1, 1 SERIES, 2 SERIES GRAN COUPE · built 2025
- Checking the Threaded Connection of Grounding Cable PCU48R/2025/267 · 18/07/2025
On affected vehicles the ground connection cable on the 48V power supply control unit may not have been torqued to the correct specification.
Remedy: Affected vehicles will have the ground connection checked and re-torqued. If required the relevant cable and Power Control Unit will be replaced.
Listed for: 1 SERIES HATCHBACK, 2 SERIES GRAN COUPE, 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER · built 2025
- Integrated Braking SystemR/2024/383 · 13/09/2024
On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.
Remedy: Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain f…
Listed for: 1 SERIES HATCHBACK, X5M, X6M, X5, X6, X7, XM, 5 SERIES SALOON, 5 SERIES TOURING, 7 SERIES SALOON, M5, 2 SERIES ACTIVE T… · built 2021–2024
- Rework Front End Threaded Connection (BMW)R/2024/452 · 08/11/2024
On affected vehicles the screws connecting the front end to the vehicles body may have been tightened to a torque level lower than required.
Remedy: The screws will be replaced if necessary and correctly torqued.
Listed for: 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER, 1 SERIES HATCHBACK, 2 SERIES GRAN COUPE · built 2023–2024
1 Series (Mk3, F40) (2019–2024)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · BMWEngine
Recall: camshaft bearing cap screws may come loose
On a small number of 1 and 2 Series built in 2020 the screws holding the camshaft bearing caps could come loose. Dealers check the engine and replace the camshaft support housing or the complete cylinder head as needed.
Applies to: BMW 1 Series and 2 Series built in 2020 (39 UK cars)
Only 39 UK cars are covered; the recall is identified by VIN.
- Recall · BMWInterior
Driver's airbag fabric may tear on deployment (recall)
On some 1 Series and 2 Series cars built in early 2020, the driver's airbag fabric could be damaged by the airbag cover as it deploys. The driver's airbag is replaced.
Applies to: 1 Series (F40) and 2 Series built January–March 2020
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersCooling
If it has the BMW B58 3.0 turbo petrol: 3.0 turbo petrol (B58): coolant leaks, often at the oil filter housing
The B58 six-cylinder turbo petrol has a reputation for slow coolant loss. The oil filter housing, which also carries the oil-to-coolant heat exchanger, can leak coolant and oil; leaks are also reported from the water pump, and on some cars the loss is simply the expansion-tank cap. Check the coolant level regularly — the low-level warning can be slow to appear.
Applies to: BMW with the 3.0 six-cylinder turbo petrol (B58), built 2015 onwards: M140i, M240i, 340i/M340i, 440i/M440i, 540i, 640i GT, 740i, 840i, X3/X4 M40i, X5/X6/X7 40i and Z4 M40i, including the six-cylinder plug-in hybrids
- Reported by 2 publishersEngine
If it has the BMW/MINI B48 2.0 turbo petrol: 2.0 turbo petrol (B48): oil filter housing can crack and leak
On the B48 four-cylinder turbo petrol the plastic oil filter housing, which also carries coolant, can crack or leak at higher mileages, letting out oil, coolant or both; in the worst case the two mix. On MINIs it is reached from underneath the engine, which adds to the labour.
Applies to: BMW and MINI with the 2.0 four-cylinder turbo petrol (B48), built 2014 onwards — e.g. BMW 120i, 220i, 320i/330i, 420i/430i, 520i/530i, X1/X2/X3 20i, Z4 sDrive20i/30i; MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works
DVSA recalls for the 1 Series (Mk3, F40)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- The material quality of the screws used for seat belts and rear seats may not be to specifications.R/2021/442 · 29/12/2021
The material quality of seat and seatbelt screws may not be according to specification.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the screws will be replaced in specific locations on the seat belts or rear seats.
Listed for: I3, M5, 2 SERIES, X1, 1 SERIES, 5 SERIES, X2 · built 2021
- Replace the Engine Starter MotorR/2025/405 · 27/10/2025
For affected vehicles there is a concern involving water ingress and corrosion to the starter motor for where a short circuit cannot be ruled out. It is strongly recommended to park the vehicle outdoors and not in the immediate vicinity of buildings until the repair has been carried out.
Remedy: Replacement of the starter motor.
Listed for: 3 SERIES SALOON PHEV, 7 SERIES SALOON PHEV, 7 SERIES SALOON LWB PHEV, 5 SERIES SALOON PHEV, 5 SERIES LWB PHEV, 1 SERIES… · built 2015–2021
- Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifoldR/2022/255 · 22/08/2022
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Remedy: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
Listed for: X4, 7 SERIES SALOON LWB, X3, 2 SERIES GRAN TOURER, X5, 3 SERIES SALOON, 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER, 4 SERIES CONVERTIBLE, 3… · built 2013–2021
- Integrated Braking SystemR/2024/383 · 13/09/2024
On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.
Remedy: Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain f…
Listed for: 1 SERIES HATCHBACK, X5M, X6M, X5, X6, X7, XM, 5 SERIES SALOON, 5 SERIES TOURING, 7 SERIES SALOON, M5, 2 SERIES ACTIVE T… · built 2021–2024
Show 4 more
- Plug in contact cable may malfunctionR/2017/114 · 10/04/2017
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme ca…
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles with petrol engines and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Listed for: 1 SERIES, M3, 3 SERIES, Z4, X1 · built 2009–2021
- The exhaust gas recirculation cooler could leak over timeR/2021/037 · 09/02/2021
Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Listed for: 7 SERIES, 1 SERIES, X4, 3 SERIES, 5 SERIES, 4 SERIES, X3, 2 SERIES, X5 · built 2014–2019
- Rework Front End Threaded Connection (BMW)R/2024/452 · 08/11/2024
On affected vehicles the screws connecting the front end to the vehicles body may have been tightened to a torque level lower than required.
Remedy: The screws will be replaced if necessary and correctly torqued.
Listed for: 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER, 1 SERIES HATCHBACK, 2 SERIES GRAN COUPE · built 2023–2024
- The exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incidentR/2022/206 · 01/08/2022
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
Listed for: 5 SERIES SALOON, X1, 3 SERIES TOURING, X3, X6, 2 SERIES COUPE, 5 SERIES TOURING, 6 SERIES GRAN COUPE, 7 SERIES SALOON L… · built 2010–2020
Measured at MOT: how a 2022 1 Series fails more often
Based on 48,804 first MOT tests of this model at 4 years old (cars first used 2020–2021), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
1 Series (Mk2, F20/F21) (2011–2019)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · BMWEngine
Recall: crankshaft sensor software can cut power or stall
Some BMW and MINI diesels built over a few weeks in May and June 2018 were fitted with a crankshaft sensor whose firmware cannot handle temperature changes properly. The engine then drops into an emergency mode with an engine malfunction message, rough running and reduced power, and stalling while driving cannot be ruled out. Dealers replace the sensor.
Applies to: BMW 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 Series, X1, X2 and MINI diesels built May–June 2018
Only cars built over a few weeks (What Car? quotes 16 May–7 June 2018 for the 3 Series and 22 May–12 June 2018 for MINI diesels) are affected; the recall is identified by VIN.
4 sources
- Recall · BMWClutch & flywheel
Recall: clutch pressure plate bolts may work loose
On manual cars built in the first half of 2013 the bolt securing the clutch cover (pressure plate) can work loose. Clutch noise or difficulty selecting gears is the warning, and in the worst case drive can be lost completely. Dealers replace the clutch bolts.
Applies to: BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, X1 and Z4 manuals built February–June 2013
DVLA does not record the gearbox; this applies only to manual cars, and DVSA counts only 4 UK cars in the recall.
- Recall · BMWInterior
Driver's airbag inflator may rupture (recall)
BMW recalled a wide range of 2012–2017 models because the propellant in some driver's airbags can degrade, so that if the airbag fires it burns too aggressively and the inflator body can rupture. The fix is a replacement driver's airbag module, free of charge. Ask a BMW dealer to check the car against this campaign.
Applies to: 1 Series (F20/F21), 2 Series (F22/F23, Active Tourer, Gran Tourer), 3 Series (F30/F31, GT), 4 Series (F32/F33/F36), 5 Series (F10/F11, GT), 6 Series, X1 (F48), X3 (F25), X4 (F26), X5 (F15), X6 (F16) and M2/M3/M4, built 2012–2017
Only cars in specific VIN ranges are included; a BMW dealer can confirm by VIN.
- Recall · BMWInterior
Takata airbag check on imported or airbag-repaired cars (recall)
Two BMW campaigns cover cars that may carry a recalled Takata airbag: vehicles brought into the UK from another market where they were already under a Takata recall, and cars whose original airbag was later swapped for a previously recalled type. Such an airbag can deploy with too much force and throw metal fragments into the cabin. The airbag is checked and replaced if needed, free of charge.
Applies to: Most BMW models built 2009–2017, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Series, X1, X3, X4, X5 and X6, where the car was imported or had its airbag replaced
The factory-fitted airbag on a UK-supplied car is not affected by these two campaigns; they apply to cars previously registered in another market, or fitted with a recalled replacement airbag. DVLA does not show either, so ask a BMW dealer to check the VIN.
- Recall · BMWSteering
Electric power steering assistance can fail (recall)
BMW recalled a small number of cars because an electrical contact on the electric power steering control unit is not robust enough over the car's life. The steering assistance can fail suddenly, and in a few cases a localised thermal event cannot be ruled out. The steering gear is replaced.
Applies to: 1, 2, 3 and 4 Series, X3, X5 and X6 built September 2011 – December 2015
DVSA lists only 41 UK vehicles as affected, so few cars of these models are included.
- Recall · BMWFuel system
In-tank fuel pump can stop working (recall)
Some fuel pumps fitted in 2013–2015 had components that were not correctly nickel-plated, which can cause friction and stop the pump working. The car may not start or, at worst, can stall while driving; a warning lamp lights. The pump is replaced with a modified one.
Applies to: 1, 2, 3 and 4 Series built September 2013 – April 2014, and 1 Series built September 2014 – March 2015
- Recall · BMWElectrics
Starter motor water ingress: park outside until fixed (recall)
BMW is replacing the starter motor on a wide range of 2015–2021 cars because water can get in and corrode it, and a short circuit cannot be ruled out. Until the work is done BMW strongly recommends parking the car outdoors and away from buildings.
Applies to: 1 Series (F20) built 2017–2019, 3 Series (incl. 330e) built 2015–2021, 4 Series built 2019–2020, 5 Series (incl. 530e) built 2016–2020, 6 Series GT built 2018–2020, 7 Series built 2016–2019, X3 (G01) and X4 (G02) built 2017–2020, Z4 (G29) built 2018–2020
Only cars in specific VIN ranges are affected; a BMW dealer can confirm by VIN.
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersSuspension
Knocking from the suspension or steering rack
Owners of the second-generation 1 Series report knocking noises from the suspension, which Auto Express traces to worn rear dampers and/or their mounting bushes; What Car? owners and ReDriven also mention knocks or rattles from the steering rack. Listen for knocks over bumps on a test drive; new dampers, bushes or a steering rack are the usual cures.
Applies to: 1 Series (F20/F21) built 2011–2019, including M135i and M140i
- Reported by 2 publishersBody & corrosion
Blocked drains can let water into the electrics
Leaves and debris can block the drains below the windscreen (the bulkhead or scuttle area) and, on cars with a sunroof, the sunroof drain channels. Water then finds its way inside and can damage the electrics. Check the drains are clear and look for damp carpets or electrical faults.
Applies to: 1 Series (F20/F21) built 2011–2019; the sunroof drains only on cars with a sunroof
A sunroof is an option DVLA does not record; the windscreen-scuttle drains apply to all cars.
- Reported by 2 publishersElectrics
Headlights and rear lights mist up inside
Water getting into the headlights and rear lights, and condensing inside, is a reported issue on the second-generation 1 Series. The lamps are vented, so light misting usually clears, but ReDriven warns that condensation from failing seals can be expensive to put right if left.
Applies to: 1 Series (F20/F21) built 2011–2019
- Reported by 3 publishersTiming belt / chain
If it has the BMW N47 2.0 diesel: 2.0 diesel (N47): timing chain and tensioner wear
The N47 2.0 diesel's timing chain sits at the back of the engine, and its chain and tensioner can wear and stretch, especially where oil changes have been stretched out. A rattle or metallic ticking from the back of the engine, often on start-up, is the warning. Left alone the chain can snap and wreck the engine; replacing it is a four-figure job because the chain is so hard to reach.
Applies to: BMW 1, 3, 4 and 5 Series, X1, X3 and X5 with the N47 2.0 diesel, built 2012–2015
DVLA records 1,995cc for both the N47 and the B47 that replaced it from 2014–2015, so on a car built in those years this applies only if it has the older N47. What Car? and Parkers say the later B47 suffers less.
9 sources
- What Car? — Used BMW 3 Series Saloon 2012-2019 – reliability
- What Car? — Used BMW X3 2010-2017 – reliability
- What Car? — Used BMW 5 Series Saloon 2010-2017 – reliability
- What Car? — Used BMW X1 2009-2015 – reliability
- What Car? — Used BMW 1 Series 2011-2019 – reliability
- What Car? — Used BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé 2014-2022 – reliability & common problems
- Honest John — BMW 3 Series (2012–2019) – Ask Honest John answer
- Parkers — BMW X5 (2013–2018) used review – known faults
- Parkers — BMW X1 (2015–2022) used review – known faults
- Reported by 2 publishersTiming belt / chain
If it has the BMW N13 1.6 turbo petrol: 1.6 turbo petrol (N13): timing chain rattle and wear
The N13 1.6 turbo petrol in the 116i, 118i, 120i and 316i is reported to suffer timing chain and tensioner wear, particularly where oil changes have not been kept up. A rattle, especially from cold, is the warning; ignoring it risks expensive engine damage.
Applies to: BMW 1 Series (116i, 118i, 120i) and 3 Series (316i) with the N13 1.6 turbo petrol, built 2012–2015
- Reported by 2 publishersEngine
If it has the BMW N55 3.0 turbo petrol: 3.0 turbo petrol (N55): oil filter housing and rocker cover leaks
The N55 six-cylinder turbo petrol is known for oil leaks as it ages, most often from the oil filter housing gasket and the rocker (valve) cover gasket, and sometimes the sump gasket. They are usually found on higher-mileage engines and are worth fixing before oil reaches hot parts of the engine.
Applies to: BMW with the 3.0 six-cylinder turbo petrol (N55), built 2012–2018: M135i, M235i, 335i, 435i, 535i, 640i, 740i, X3/X4/X5/X6 35i and the M2 (to 2018)
DVLA records 2,979cc for the N55 and also for the S55 in the M2 Competition and CS, which is why those DVSA names are excluded; the Z4 (N54) and M3/M4 (S55) are not pinned.
- Reported by 2 publishersCooling
If it has the BMW B58 3.0 turbo petrol: 3.0 turbo petrol (B58): coolant leaks, often at the oil filter housing
The B58 six-cylinder turbo petrol has a reputation for slow coolant loss. The oil filter housing, which also carries the oil-to-coolant heat exchanger, can leak coolant and oil; leaks are also reported from the water pump, and on some cars the loss is simply the expansion-tank cap. Check the coolant level regularly — the low-level warning can be slow to appear.
Applies to: BMW with the 3.0 six-cylinder turbo petrol (B58), built 2015 onwards: M140i, M240i, 340i/M340i, 440i/M440i, 540i, 640i GT, 740i, 840i, X3/X4 M40i, X5/X6/X7 40i and Z4 M40i, including the six-cylinder plug-in hybrids
- Reported by 2 publishersEngine
If it has the BMW/MINI B48 2.0 turbo petrol: 2.0 turbo petrol (B48): oil filter housing can crack and leak
On the B48 four-cylinder turbo petrol the plastic oil filter housing, which also carries coolant, can crack or leak at higher mileages, letting out oil, coolant or both; in the worst case the two mix. On MINIs it is reached from underneath the engine, which adds to the labour.
Applies to: BMW and MINI with the 2.0 four-cylinder turbo petrol (B48), built 2014 onwards — e.g. BMW 120i, 220i, 320i/330i, 420i/430i, 520i/530i, X1/X2/X3 20i, Z4 sDrive20i/30i; MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works
DVSA recalls for the 1 Series (Mk2, F20/F21)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- EPS may not perform as specifiedR/2012/081 · 30/07/2012
Due to a component in the integrated control module not being to specification it is possible power steering assistance may fail. If this happens the EPS warning lamp will illuminate and a check control message will appear on the dashboard display. Directional control will be maintained albeit with additional driver i…
Remedy: Recall vehicles likely to be affected to replace the steering box.
Listed for: 3 SERIES, Z4, X1, 1 SERIES · built 2007–2012
- Engine emergency mode may be activated during drivingR/2014/068 · 28/07/2014
The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated.…
Remedy: Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit
Listed for: 3 SERIES, Z4, X1, X3, 5 SERIES, 1 SERIES, 6 SERIES, X5, 7 SERIES · built 2009–2011
- Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifoldR/2022/255 · 22/08/2022
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Remedy: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
Listed for: X4, 7 SERIES SALOON LWB, X3, 2 SERIES GRAN TOURER, X5, 3 SERIES SALOON, 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER, 4 SERIES CONVERTIBLE, 3… · built 2013–2021
- The exhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak over timeR/2020/179 · 17/08/2020
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Module cooler could leak over time
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be inspected on the affected vehicles and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Listed for: 1 SERIES, MINI, 2 SERIES, X1, MINI CLUBMAN, MINI COUNTRYMAN · built 2013–2017
Show 10 more
- The blower regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strandsR/2021/064 · 15/03/2021
The blower-regulator wiring could be damaged and could lead to partial contact of individual wire strands.
Remedy: The blower regulator wiring harness will be inspected and a new part will be installed additional components will be replaced if necessary.
Listed for: 1 SERIES · built 2004–2011
- Replace the Driver’s Airbag – Takata PSDI-5R/2025/327 · 12/01/2026
Affected vehicles may be fitted with a drivers airbag which may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin. It has the potential to fatally or seriously injure vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Affected vehicles will have the airbag replaced.
Listed for: 1 SERIES 3 DOOR HATCH, 1 SERIES COUPE, X3, X1, 1 SERIES 5 DOOR HATCH, 1 SERIES CONVERTIBLE, 3 SERIES SALOON, 3 SERIES T… · built 2006–2015
- Driveshaft universal joint may breakR/2017/132 · 11/04/2017
Due to insufficient strength the front universal joint in the rear front universal joint of the rear prop shaft may fail.
Remedy: On affected vehicle replace the universal joint with a modified version
Listed for: X1, 5 SERIES, 6 SERIES, 7 SERIES, 1 SERIES, 3 SERIES, Z4 · built 2010–2011
- Plug in contact cable may malfunctionR/2017/114 · 10/04/2017
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme ca…
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles with petrol engines and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Listed for: 1 SERIES, M3, 3 SERIES, Z4, X1 · built 2009–2021
- The exhaust gas recirculation cooler could leak over timeR/2021/037 · 09/02/2021
Leaking glycol coolant could create in combination with soot and oil sediments in the EGR module ignitable deposits.
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be internally inspected with an endoscope and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Listed for: 7 SERIES, 1 SERIES, X4, 3 SERIES, 5 SERIES, 4 SERIES, X3, 2 SERIES, X5 · built 2014–2019
- Exhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leakR/2018/341 · 07/12/2018
The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk
Remedy: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles
Listed for: 6 SERIES, 5 SERIES, 1 SERIES, 7 SERIES, 3 SERIES, X5, X6, 4 SERIES, 2 SERIES, X3, X1, X4 · built 2010–2017
- Plug in contact cable may malfunctionR/2018/132 · 07/06/2018
The positive battery cable to the front distribution box behind the glove box can become damaged by vibrations and frictional corrosion. This may cause a loss of electrical connection to the distributions box. Symptoms include being unable to gain entry or start the car but the most common are a flickering instrument…
Remedy: On affected vehicles carry out a suitable repair to the battery cable positive cable.
Listed for: 1 SERIES, X1, Z4, 3 SERIES · built 2006–2011
- Exhaust gas recirculation cooler could potentially leak over timeR/2018/258 · 05/11/2018
The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk.
Remedy: The EGR cooler will be replaced with an improved version.
Listed for: 2 SERIES, X3, 5 SERIES, 3 SERIES, 4 SERIES, X5, 1 SERIES, X4 · built 2013–2017
- The exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incidentR/2022/206 · 01/08/2022
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
Listed for: 5 SERIES SALOON, X1, 3 SERIES TOURING, X3, X6, 2 SERIES COUPE, 5 SERIES TOURING, 6 SERIES GRAN COUPE, 7 SERIES SALOON L… · built 2010–2020
- Replace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55R/2024/191 · 01/05/2024
On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.
Listed for: 5 SERIES SALOON, 5 SERIES TOURING, X5, 1 SERIES COUPE, X3, X1, 1 SERIES CONVERTIBLE, Z4, 3 SERIES SALOON, 3 SERIES TOUR… · built 2009–2011
Measured at MOT: how a 2015 1 Series fails more often
Based on 66,124 first MOT tests of this model at 11 years old (cars first used 2013–2014), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
MOT failure rate: the 1 Series against vehicles its age
In our analysis of DVSA's anonymised MOT data for 2024 and 2025, 24.3% of 768,163 initial MOT tests on the BMW 1 Series failed at the first attempt — 16% less often than vehicles of the same ages and fuel types, which failed 28.9%.
1 SeriesCars of the same age and fuel (all makes)
| Age | Tests | Bars | 1 Series | Same age & fuel | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3–5 years | 140,715 | 12.0% | 14.2% | 14% lower | |
| 6–9 years | 244,823 | 19.2% | 23.5% | 18% lower | |
| 10–14 years | 273,901 | 30.5% | 35.8% | 14% lower | |
| 15–19 years | 105,480 | 35.7% | 42.8% | 16% lower | |
| 20–40 years | 3,244 | 37.4% | 43.0% | 9% lower |
These describe the model, not one car: how vehicles are used and maintained shows up as much as how they were built. Differences are the conservative end of a 95% confidence interval.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Rates and comparisons are FindServiceHistory's own analysis, not DVSA figures.
These describe the model, not one car. Plenty of cars never have the problems their model is known for, and a recall may already have been done on yours. Every problem links to its sources; a reported problem needs two independent publishers before we list it.
Recalls are listed by DVSA for the model around its build date — check a specific car by VIN at GOV.UK. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Common questions
What are the most common 1 Series problems?
For cars built from 2012, the problems at least two independent publishers report include: 3.0 turbo petrol (B58): coolant leaks, often at the oil filter housing; 2.0 turbo petrol (B48): oil filter housing can crack and leak; Knocking from the suspension or steering rack; Blocked drains can let water into the electrics; Headlights and rear lights mist up inside. Which apply depends on the generation and engine — they are listed generation by generation above, each with its sources.
Has the 1 Series been recalled?
Yes. DVSA lists recalls for the 1 Series built from 2012, shown above by generation. A recall covers a range of chassis numbers, so not every car is affected — check a specific car by VIN on GOV.UK, or by registration with our checker.
Does my 1 Series have these problems?
Not necessarily. These describe the model; many cars never have them, and a well-maintained car is less likely to. Enter your registration above to see the problems for your exact generation and engine, and whether DVSA records an outstanding recall on it. Whether a known problem was fixed is what a service history check shows.
Has this 1 Series had the work done?
A known problem matters far less on a car whose dealer records show it was fixed. A service history check returns the manufacturer's own dealership records for a specific car — and there's no charge if we find nothing.
Check a BMW service history