IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2019–2022 BMW 1 Series (F40)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2019–2022 BMW 1 Series (F40). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

The 2019–2022 period has 2 more issues than the BMW 1 Series (F40) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

B38 Engine Timing Chain Tensioner

SeriousEngine

The 3-cylinder 118i can suffer from premature wear on the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain rattle and potential timing issues if ignored.

Most affected: 118i

Estimated cost: £400–£1,200Affects: 2019–2022Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Metallic rattling sound for 10-30 seconds after a cold start
  • •Drivetrain warning on the dash
  • •Rough idling when cold

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Request a stone-cold start and listen to the engine closely
  • ✓Check service history for oil changes every 10k miles rather than 18k
  • ✓Look for any stored timing-related fault codes

EGR Valve Soot Buildup (Diesels)

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The B37 and B47 diesel engines suffer from carbon buildup in the EGR valve, especially on cars used for short UK city commutes.

Most affected: 116d, 118d, 120d

Estimated cost: £250–£500Affects: 2019–2024Often appears around: 40,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Hesitation under light acceleration
  • •Reduced fuel economy
  • •Check engine light or Drivetrain warning

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the MOT history for smoke or emissions advisories
  • ✓Look for evidence of long-distance motorway runs
  • ✓Check for recall status regarding the EGR cooler

Infotainment & iDrive Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Early iDrive 7 models are prone to software freezes, screen blackouts, and failures in the telematics or Bluetooth modules.

Most affected: All models with iDrive 7

Estimated cost: £0–£400Affects: 2019–2022Often appears around: Any mileage

Typical symptoms

  • •Screen reboots while driving
  • •CarPlay/Android Auto refusing to connect
  • •GPS location drift

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the software version in the iDrive settings
  • ✓Test smartphone integration multiple times
  • ✓Verify if a full software update has been performed by a dealer

Front Suspension Drop Link Wear

MinorSuspension & Chassis

The front-heavy nature of the F40 and UK road conditions lead to premature wear of the anti-roll bar drop links, causing annoying knocks.

Most affected: All variants, especially M Sport with larger wheels

Estimated cost: £150–£300Affects: 2019–2024Often appears around: 30,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rattling or knocking from the front over small bumps
  • •Loose feeling through the floorpan

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive over a rough road or speed bumps at low speed
  • ✓Physical check of the drop link boots for splits
  • ✓Ask if the top mounts have also been inspected

Buying Tips for the 2019 BMW 1 Series (F40)

  • ✓Check for excessive wear on the inner shoulders of the front tyres; the FWD layout and weight make them sensitive to alignment
  • ✓Test the infotainment system thoroughly for freezes or smartphone connectivity drops
  • ✓Ensure the front-wheel-drive handling suits your expectations if coming from an older 1 Series
  • ✓On M135i models, check for evidence of hard track use or non-approved modifications
2023–2024 BMW 1 Series (F40)

Browse 2019–2022 BMW 1 Series (F40) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2019–2022 BMW 1 Series (F40) vehicles.

View 2019–2022 Directory

Other BMW 1 Series (F40) Year Periods

2019–20222023–2024

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