BMW 1 SERIES Common Problems and Solutions
The Start/Stop Is Broken
Problem:
The Start/Stop function is not functioning as effectively as it should.
Solution:
The first thing to remember is that the engine needs to be slightly warm before the Stop/Start system activates, so it may take about two minutes of driving before you notice it. If it takes much longer, it indicates that your battery is not holding enough charge. Try taking the car out for a long drive, and if that doesn't solve the issue, it's likely that your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, and you'll need to find a replacement on our parts page.
Difficulty level
Battery
Grinding Noise in Engine Bay
Problem:
You can hear a grinding noise coming from the engine bay while driving.
Solution:
The timing chain in the 1 Series isn't invincible and will wear out over time. That grinding noise indicates your timing chain is nearing failure. If you order one quickly from us, you can replace it before it breaks, which could cause much more damage.
Difficulty level
Timing Chain
Excessive Exhaust Smoke
Problem:
There is considerably more smoke emissions from your exhaust than before.
Solution:
The turbocharger on the 1 Series is particularly prone to failure, and you'll need to replace the entire unit. Find a new turbocharger in our store and install it.
Difficulty level
Turbocharger
Uneven Wear on Tyres
Problem:
Your front tyres are wearing unevenly.
Solution:
It's easy to assume there's an issue with your suspension alignment, but on the 1 Series, it's more likely to be a faulty steering rack causing the tracking to be off on your front wheels. Replace the steering rack from our store, and your tyre wear should become consistent again. Remember, you might also need to replace the front tyres if they are worn.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Rack
Smell of Petrol
Problem:
You can smell petrol inside the car, and it might be running roughly.
Solution:
This is a common sign that your ignition coil pack is failing. Luckily, we always have ignition coil packs in stock, and replacing them yourself is much easier than you might think.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Engine Sputtering
Problem:
The engine stalls at high speeds, and fuel pressure drops. The warning light will illuminate.
Solution:
Your fuel pump, which likely wasn't nickel-plated properly, has deteriorated. You will need to find a new one on our parts page and replace the entire fuel pump.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump in Tank
Rough Running
Problem:
The car is running roughly, may stall while you're driving, and has a decrease in engine power.
Solution:
There is faulty software in the crankshaft sensor. This doesn't affect every 1 Series, but if you're experiencing those issues, you can order a replacement crankshaft sensor from BreakerYard and have it delivered.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Harder To Steer
Problem:
It has become much more difficult to control the car.
Solution:
The power steering on your 1 Series is faulty. This is quite common and might be due to a failure in your power steering ECU. It could also be caused by a component failure, in which case you can easily purchase a new steering box from us and replace the damaged one.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Box
Loss of Power
Problem:
The car's power has markedly decreased.
Solution:
Since the 1 Series is rear-wheel drive, it has a prop shaft that transmits power from the engine to the rear wheels. The connection on that prop shaft can fail, and you will need to fit a replacement, which you can find on our drop-down parts menu for the 1 Series.
Difficulty level
Prop Shaft
Limp Home Mode Activating
Problem:
The limp home mode activates while you're driving.
Solution:
While there are several reasons why this might occur, the primary cause is damaged screws. The screws in the variable camshaft timing system may have worn out and fallen off. This can cause the VANOS system to malfunction and lead to issues with your engine's valve timing. As a result, your car may automatically enter limp mode, and you will need to repair the variable camshaft timing system. If it has become damaged, you will need to order a replacement from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Acceleration Surge
Problem:
The car accelerates when you press the accelerator gently, which may produce black smoke from your exhaust.
Solution:
You probably have a faulty EGR module installed. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) module in some 1 Series models is prone to leaking, which could lead to a fire if not addressed. Find a replacement EGR module on our parts list and install it.
Difficulty level
Driver Seat Malfunction
Problem:
The driver's seat does not latch into position, which means it will fold forward if you have a collision.
Solution:
You will need to replace the entire seat. We always keep these in stock for the 1 Series and can deliver the replacement seat directly to you.
Difficulty level
Car Seat
Engine Cutting Out
Problem:
The engine keeps cutting out, and sometimes the lights in the instrument cluster flicker.
Solution:
This is a known electrical fault with the 1 Series. It's caused by a failing cable in the engine bay. You will need to locate the cable that supplies power to the power distribution box and order a replacement from our parts list if your car is no longer covered under warranty.
Difficulty level