Is the BMW 1 series reliable?
Learn if the BMW 1 Series is reliable and our tips for finding a great model
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If you’re shopping for BMW’s spicy hatchback, you might be asking yourself, ‘Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars?’.
It’s all well and good looking flash and being fun to drive, but those things all mean nothing if the 1 Series can’t be relied on.
Luckily, the BMW 1 Series is a reliable car in plenty of areas and will have your back through daily life.
Learn more about BMW 1 Series reliability in our guide.
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Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars?
A great example of German engineering, the BMW 1 Series has previously bagged itself awards for its class-leading reliability.
BMW is known for its build quality, but its innovation has sometimes come at the cost of reliability. Luckily, BMW's reputation for reliability has improved in recent years.
From brand-new, the BMW 1 Series comes with a three-year, unlimited mileage manufacturer warranty. This beats out the warranty the offer from Audi offer, whichs currently capped at two years.
If you buy a used BMW 1 Series from us, you can also add a cinchCare package that includes servicing and an extra warranty.
BMW 1 Series safety
The BMW 1 Series was awarded a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2019 thanks to the premium build quality we mentioned earlier, and its standard safety kit.
NCAP testing shows an 83% rating for adult occupants and 87% for children. This is about what you'd expect from other premium, small family cars such as the Mercedes A-Class and Audi A3 – two fierce rivals of the 1 Series that also received five stars from Euro NCAP.
As standard, the latest 1 Series gets safety equipment like the impressive Active Guard Plus. That’s BMW’s collection of lane departure warning, speed limit assist, automatic emergency braking, and cruise control.
Front and rear parking sensors are also standard – perfect for avoiding knocks and bumps – and automatic LED headlights keep the road well-lit.
There’s also the optional Driving Assistance package that you may be able to find for less on the used market. This includes safety systems like blind spot detection.
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Which BMW 1 Series is the most reliable?
The whole BMW 1 Series range has been well reviewed for reliability, so it’ll be up to you to choose the model that suits you best.
The benefit of buying a used car, especially one as popular as a BMW 1 Series, is that you'll be able to read plenty of reviews and forums to look for any common issues.
Like all new cars, a lot of money is spent on development, but issues do sometimes come up. Often, owners will solve these problems before selling the car on, or BMW itself might update weak points with a mid-cycle refresh or a facelift model.
BMW 1 Series SE
If you’re comparing models, the BMW 1 Series SE is an entry-level option that’s still very well built, and a fairly simple example, which can mean fewer things to go wrong.
The 116D, in particular, with its 2.0-litre diesel engine, is nice and fuel efficient – offering up to 61mpg.
BMW 1 Series Sport
A great option in the middle of the range, the 1 Series Sport beefs up from the SE with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and some nice sporty extras, like upgraded seats.
BMW 1 Series M135i xDrive
Sitting at the top of the range, the M135i xDrive is a favourite among those looking for a hot hatch. With 300hp and all-wheel drive, it’s an incredibly capable machine with plenty of power and the grip to put it down.
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BMW 1 Series compared to rivals
If you’re in the market for a premium hatchback, you’re spoilt for choice with the BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class and Audi A3 – all with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and strong build quality.
The 1 Series is slightly more expensive on average than the A-Class, with the Audi A1 typically being the cheapest option of the three.
Since they're all premium cars with a long list of equipment, this can sometimes translate into more things that need repairing.
This is why some flashy cars like the BMW 1 Series may look less reliable on surveys, but this isn’t always an accurate image of what it’s like to own the car.
Learn more about how the 1 Series compares to rivals in our BMW 1 Series vs. Mercedes A-Class review.
What to look out for when buying a BMW 1 Series
Need some help telling whether a car is going to be reliable or not? Here are a few things to look out for:
'Kick the tyres' when it's delivered – check there are no scratches or scrapes, and everything looks as it should
Go for a lower mileage model, if you can
Check the service history – even if you're looking at a really high mileage car, consistent service history could mean it'll be reliable for you
An HPI check can show hidden details like outstanding finance or insurance write-offs
A DVLA check using the number plate will show MOT history and SORN status
Our BMW 1 Series models are thoroughly checked over by trained technicians and must match our quality standards, so you know you’ll get an impressive example.