Used BMW 1 Series 2019-present reliability

You'll still find many used examples within the franchised dealer network, and most should still look pretty good.

If you're buying through the BMW approved used scheme, make sure that the infotainment system has been updated to the current software.

Camshaft

A small number of 1 Series built between 18-28 February 2020 could have an issue with the bolts that hold the camshaft in place inside the engine working loose. Speak to your local BMW dealer for further information because extensive engine repair work will need to be carried out on any of these.

Driver's airbag

The fabric for the driver's airbag could be damaged during deployment, compromising safety. This recall applies to cars manufactured between 28 January and 11 March 2020, and affected examples will need to have the airbag replaced to solve the problem.

The current generation of 1 Series finished in fifth place out of 29 cars in the family car class in our most recent What Car? Reliability survey with a great overall score of 97%.

Reliability rating 97.0%

The latest BMW 1 Series can't beat the flawless dependability record of its predecessor, but a fault rate of 15% is pretty good. The only frequently cited problems related to a range of non-engine electrical systems. Although all issues were fixed for free, only 40% of cars were put right in a day or less, and 40% spent more than a week in the workshop.

BMW as a brand has improved dramatically over the results of previous years, finishing in 12th place out of 32 manufacturers with an overall score of 93%. This result put the brand above Audi, Mercedes and Volkswagen, but below Honda, Kia and Lexus.

Used BMW 1 Series reliability: the owners' view

While the BMW 1 Series is generally praised for its performance and comfort, some concerns regarding its reliability have surfaced. Issues commonly cited include electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors and erratic dashboard warning lights. These problems often necessitated multiple dealership visits to resolve, which was a point of frustration for several owners.

Additionally, the cost of repairs and parts through dealerships was frequently described as high, impacting overall satisfaction with the dealer service. Despite these challenges, many readers appreciated the professionalism of the service staff and the efficiency of the booking process.

Overall, while the BMW 1 Series offers an engaging drive, potential owners should be mindful of the possibility of recurring electrical issues and higher maintenance costs.

If you'd like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.