BMW 1 Series Problems

Are you having problems with your BMW 1 Series? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest BMW 1 Series issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the BMW 1 Series in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Does the BMW 120i have a timing chain or timing belt?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 02 Nov 2018

The B4820 two-litre four-cylinder engine in BMW's current F20-generation 120i uses a timing chain.

Does the BMW 120i have good fuel consumption?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 02 Nov 2018

The current F20-series BMW 120i is rated on a combined cycle as using 5.9-litres of unleaded fuel per-100km. While it isn't as good as other small hatchbacks in the class it would still be considered good fuel consumption, especially given most large family cars would consume 10-12-litres per-100km.

Does the BMW 120i have a timing chain or timing belt?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 19 Sep 2018

BMW's F20-series 120i runs a timing chain on the B48B20 two-litre four-cylinder engine.

What is the top speed of a BMW 120i?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 02 Nov 2018

BMW has claimed the F20-series 120i hatch will top-out at 230km/h.

What is the top speed of a BMW 120i?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 19 Sep 2018

BMW claim a top speed of 230km/h for the F20-series 120i.

BMW 1 Series: replacement key cost
Answered by Malcolm Flynn · 13 May 2019

It really depends on the variant and year of your BMW. Have a look at our article on how to replace your car keys here for more information.

What is the cheapest BMW?
Answered by Lily Murray · 15 Mar 2019

Currently, the cheapest new BMW is the 118i Sport Line which is listed at $39,900. For up to date information on the pricing of BMWs, head to our pricing page.

How fast can a BMW 120i go from 0-100?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 02 Nov 2018

BMW's 120i hatchback can reach 100km/h from a standstill in a handy 7.1 seconds.

Tens of thousands of BMWs recalled for fire hazard fault: Multiple popular luxury cars exposed to 'reduction of engine power and potential fire while driving'
By James Cleary · 09 Mar 2026
The Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts has issued a safety recall notice impacting 24,122 BMWs and Mini derivatives sold new in Australia from 2010 to 2022.It confirms that examples of the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Series (F0x, F1x, F2x, F3x, G1, G3x), the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6 (F48, F39, F1x, F2x, G0x) as well as the Mini Cooper (F5x) and Countryman (F6x) have been impacted.The notice said, “Due to a manufacturing defect, the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may develop an internal coolant leak. “If this occurs, the leaking coolant and recirculated exhaust gas may combine, which may result in a reduction of engine power and potentially a fire while driving,” the notice said. The department added, “A reduction of engine power whilst driving and/or a vehicle fire could increase the risk of an accident, causing injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users and/or damage to property.”All grades of the nominated models sold from 2010 to 2022 are potentially included and the department says owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by BMW requesting they schedule an appointment with their preferred authorised BMW dealer for replacement of the EGR cooler, free of charge.Alternatively, BMW can be contacted on 1800 243 675, through email info@bmw.com.au or via www.recall.bmw.com.au. This recall comes on the back of another large scale recall alert last month impacting 16,578 BMWs sold new in Australia from 2020 to 2023.In that case, examples of the 2,3,4,5,7 Series (G12, G2x, G3x, G42), X3 (G01), X4 (G02), X5 (G05) and Z4 (G29) were found to have been exposed to a potential manufacturing defect which means the starter motor solenoid switch could experience increased wear that could cause an internal short circuit and in a worst case scenario “a fire during vehicle operation”.
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BMW Australia issues urgent airbag recall affecting more than 60,000 cars including 3 Series, X1 and X3
By Laura Berry · 29 Jul 2024
Another Takata airbag recall has been issued, this time by BMW Australia with more than 60,000 vehicles affected from the 1 Series to X5 SUV.
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Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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