Are BMW 1 Series expensive to own?
The BMW 1 Series is a premium car that can be relied on, but is it going to cost you a heap to own?
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The costs of owning a BMW 1 Series
Ask for the UK’s favourite hatchbacks and somewhere near the top of that list will be the iconic BMW 1 Series.
A used BMW 1 Series is not only a genuinely enjoyable daily driver, but it also isn’t too spendy to upkeep.
Insurance, maintenance and fuel can be higher than non-premium cars, but they shouldn’t blow you away.
Want to learn more? Find out about BMW 1 Series running costs in our guide below.
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BMW 1 Series maintenance costs
Maintenance costs can be one of the biggest things to consider when you’re looking at any new car, and we’re sure it’s not any different for the BMW 1 Series.
1 Series are solid and reliable vehicle, but regular servicing is the best way to keep it that way.
Common repairs
On any car, you’ll want to regularly look at your brakes and tyres regularly because they’re consumable and important for road safety.
Prices for parts will differ depending on the quality and brands that you choose. For example, you can find tyres that will fit on a BMW 1 Series model for as little as £85 per tyre, and a set of front brake pads and discs can cost around £180.
You might find that common repairs and maintenance work can be slightly more expensive on the BMW 1 Series. This is because you’re choosing a premium car with high-quality parts that are built to last – you get what you pay for.
Regular service
Unlike MOTs, servicing is not a legal requirement on UK roads but is always recommended. Regular servicing will keep your BMW 1 Series in the best possible condition.
The cost of servicing your car will vary depending on the type of service you go for and where you’re based in the country.
A full service can cost between £170 to £300 for small to medium sized cars like the 1 Series. These are typically done every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
Full services can include:
Oil changes
Oil and air filter changes
A full inspection of all major parts
A safety check
You can also choose an interim service for a more basic check. These are usually carried out every six months and include an oil change and checks to fluid levels, suspension, tyres and brakes.
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Fuel economy’s effect on BMW 1 Series running costs
If you’re curious about BMW 1 Series fuel costs, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common queries when it comes to buying a new car.
The price of fuel can be a decider on if a car is going to be too expensive to live with. Luckily, the 1 Series can be an economical pick.
BMW 1 Series fuel economy
Despite its sporty styling, the BMW 1 Series can be surprisingly efficient.
If you opt for the fiery M140i, you won’t get as many miles to the gallon, but there are plenty of frugal engines to pick from.
1 Series combined MPG figures:
118i – up to 56.5mpg
120i – up to 47.1mpg
125i – up to 47.9mpg
116d – up to 78.5mpg
120d – up to 65.7mpg
120d xDrive – up to 62.8mpg
125d – up to 61.4mpg
M140i – up to 36.2mpg
How to improve fuel efficiency
Whatever BMW 1 Series you choose, there are a few ways to eke out a few more miles per gallon.
Drive smoothly and avoid harsh acceleration
Cut down on the air con
Use cruise control
Shed some weight – do you really need all that stuff in the boot?
Don’t be tempted to speed
BMW 1 Series insurance costs
Insurance costs are typically decided by two types of factors – your individual circumstances and the car you're driving.
When it comes to the car itself, models are placed in insurance groups one to 50 depending on things like performance, cost and safety.
Individual circumstances like your driving experience, previous insurance claims and your annual mileage can also influence costs.
Getting cheap BMW 1 Series insurance is about choosing the right model.
1 Series cars from 2011 to 2019 typically sit in insurance groups 12 to 24, with the M Performance models being an outlier all the way in group 39.
From 2019 onwards, 1 Series sit in groups 16 to 28.
If you choose a model in a lower insurance group, like the 116d SE, insurance will be cheaper.
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Comparing BMW 1 Series ownership costs
So, we know the BMW 1 Series isn’t too expensive to own, but how does it compare to other models?
1 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Another premium small car with plenty to offer, the Mercedes A-Class rivals the 1 Series in all areas.
Insurance groups for A-Class models from 2018 range from 15 to 32, so pretty similar to insure.
Services will typically cost the same as well, with Mercedes recommending similar quality parts as BMW.
1 Series vs. Audi A1
The Audi A1 is another rival of the 1 Series – both popular for their premium build and great handling, they draw a similar crowd.
There are models similar on fuel, too – the A1 1.4 TFSI gets up to 57.6mpg, similar to the BMW 118i.
Insurance prices can be along the same lines as well, with the A1 sitting in groups 16 to 31 for models from 2018 onwards.
1 Series vs. Volkswagen Golf
Although not quite as luxurious as the 1 Series, the VW Golf is an iconic hatchback that’s comfortable to drive, easy to live with, and massively popular on UK roads.
It’s hard to compare VW Golf and 1 Series running costs exactly, as there have been so many Golf variations over the years.
VW Golf models from 2013 to 2020 start in insurance groups 7, so you might be able to get cheaper insurance than the 1 Series if you choose an older Golf in a standard trim level.
Find your BMW 1 Series
Take a look at our full range of used BMW 1 Series models to find the right fit for your budget.