IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014 BMW 2 Series Active/Gran Tourer (F45/F46)

The F45 Active Tourer went on sale in the UK in November 2014, BMW's first front-wheel-drive MPV. UK launch models were the 218i and 218d, with M Sport available from the same autumn.

What changed for 2014

  • •UK launch range: 218i petrol and 218d diesel
  • •UKL2 front-wheel-drive platform shared with the Mini Countryman
  • •Six-speed manual standard, six-speed Aisin automatic optional
  • •M Sport trim with 18-inch wheels and lowered suspension from November 2014

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front wishbone rear bushes splitting and knocking over speed cushions
  • !Rear brake discs and pads corroding on low-mileage cars
  • !Tyre wear on the inner edges from the front-drive layout
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

EGR Cooler Leak

SeriousExhaust & Emissions

Like many BMW diesels of this era, the EGR cooler is prone to leaking coolant internally and causing a fire risk. Affected by major BMW UK recall campaigns.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Recall)
Warning Signs:

Unexplained drop in coolant level, Sweet glycol smell through cabin ventilation, Engine management light or soot around cooler

What to Inspect:
  • Check BMW dealer history for recall code completion
  • Inspect coolant expansion tank for level drops
  • Look for soot residue behind the radiator and intake manifold
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated
Official Recalls & Reference Documents:

Gearbox Selector Spring Failure

ModerateInterior & Trim

A small torsion spring inside the Aisin Steptronic automatic gear selector mechanism breaks, meaning the vehicle cannot verify Park position and throws a dashboard warning on shutdown.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

"Secure vehicle with parking brake when stopping" warning, Audible chime when shifting into Park, Error message stays on iDrive

What to Inspect:
  • Shift into Park and turn off ignition to check for warnings
  • Check if upgraded shifter spring or complete lever unit has been fitted
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Front Wishbone Bushes

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The heavy front end on this UKL2 FWD platform wears through the rear hydro-bushes of the front lower wishbones quickly, causing vague steering response and knocking over speed bumps.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£400
Warning Signs:

Knocking noise over speed cushions and rough tarmac, Vagueness under hard braking, Uneven inner shoulder tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect lower wishbone rear rubber bushes for oil leaks or tearing
  • Listen for clunks over speed bumps on the test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Engine Mounts

ModerateEngine

The upper hydraulic engine mount (particularly on 3-cylinder B38 and B37 models) can perish and leak its hydraulic damping fluid, causing harsh vibrations in the cabin at idle.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£450
Warning Signs:

Excessive vibration through steering wheel and floor at idle, Thump when starting or stopping the engine, Black oil staining below the top driver-side mount

What to Inspect:
  • Look down at the driver-side engine mount for tears or leaked hydraulic oil
  • Feel for excessive cabin vibration when restarting with stop-start
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2014 BMW 2 Series Active/Gran Tourer (F45/F46)

  • Drive slowly over speed bumps and listen for front-end clunks
  • Check the service history for the EGR cooler recall on early diesels
  • Confirm the automatic shifts cleanly from first to second when cold
2015
Check a 2014 BMW 2 Series Active/Gran Tourer (F45/F46) by Registration