Bmw 128i problems
The first generation of the BMW 1 Series consists of the BMW E81 (3-door hatchback), BMW E82 (coupe), BMW E87 (5-door hatchback) and BMW E88 (convertible) compact cars. The E81/E82/E87/E88 generation was produced from 2004 until 2013 and is sometimes collectively referred to as the E8x. The E8x replaced the 3 Series Compact as the entry level models of the BMW range.
The chassis has an aluminum multi-link suspension, and a rear-wheel drive layout with a longitudinally-mounted engine giving 50:50 weight balance, which was a rare configuration for a hatchback as most cars in this market segment use front-wheel drive. The engines available were four-cylinder turbo-diesel, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, six-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and six-cylinder turbocharged petrol (the latter only available on coupe and convertible models).
The highest performance trim is the 1 Series M Coupé which was powered by the BMW N54 turbocharged inline-six engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It was produced in only the coupe body style and is considered the predecessor to the BMW M2.
Following the introduction of the F20/F21 1 Series in 2011, the E81/E87 hatchback models began to be phased out, while the E82/E88 coupes and convertibles remained in production until 2013, when they were replaced by the F22/F23 2 Series models.
Social links
Bmw 128i model years
Common Bmw 128i problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, common problems reported by owners of the BMW 128i include:
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Complaints have been made about steering and suspension components, such as lower control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings. These components can wear out over time, leading to symptoms like wheel play, vibrations, and uncertainty in steering, especially after the car has surpassed 100,000 miles.
- Tire and Wheel Problems: Owners have reported issues related to tires and wheels, including vibrations, wheel play, and concerns about run-flat tires. Run-flat tires, which are standard in some models, may have a shorter lifespan compared to non-runflat tires, impacting the overall driving experience.
- Cooling System Maintenance: Maintenance of the cooling system, including the oil filter housing gasket and lower coolant hose, is crucial for the BMW 128i. Proper maintenance helps prevent leaks and ensures the engine stays cool, especially during high-performance driving like track days.
- Engine Performance: While the BMW 128i's N52 inline-six engine is generally praised for its reliability, some owners may desire more power output. Modifications like a limited slip differential and tweaks to the setup can enhance performance and driving experience, addressing concerns about power delivery and handling on the track.
These reported issues highlight the importance of regular maintenance and attention to specific components like suspension, steering, tires, wheels, and the cooling system to ensure the BMW 128i continues to perform optimally and provide an enjoyable driving experience for owners.
Are BMW 128i reliable?
The BMW 128i Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 13th out of 17 for luxury compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $801 which means it has higher than average ownership costs. Repairs are more frequent for the 128i, so you may experience a few more visits to your BMW shop than normal.
What are common 128i problems?
Most Common BMW 128i Problems
Noise and/or Vibration Due to AC System Low on ... A droning type noise may be noted when the air conditioning system is operating. additionally, a vibration may be... One vehicles equipped with power folding mirrors, the mirror may fold out past the standard position.
How much does a BMW 128i cost?
Prices for a used BMW 1 Series 128i currently range from $5,999 to $21,998, with vehicle mileage ranging from 17,523 to 188,027. Find used BMW 1 Series 128i inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.
Are BMW i series reliable?
The BMW 1 Series shines as a mostly dependable vehicle, with significant mileage not dampening its reliability, according to our annual What Car? Reliability Survey.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw 128i years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw 128i cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw 128i model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw 128i model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw 128i years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw 128i car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw 128i , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw 128i vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 128i model years
A total of 3 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 128i model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 128i model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 155 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw 128i . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw 128i vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw 128i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: WBAUP7C5XDV
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Front passenger air bag seat occupancy sensor (OC3) mat warning "Passenger restraint system. Fault in passenger restraint system affecting airbag" BMW has an extended warranty for this exact issue on several other models, but not the 1 series which should be included. This is a huge safety issue and shouldn't be the customer's responsibility.
Bmw 128i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-19
- VIN: WBAUL7C5XBV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 BMW 128I. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. While at a stop sign, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-09
- VIN: WBAUN1C50CV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-14
- VIN: WBAUL7C5XBV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed no parts were available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-20
- VIN: WBAUN1C56BV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-02
- VIN: WBAUP7C56BV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
- VIN: WBAUL7C57BV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle was jerking and there was a hard vibration. The contact also stated that the vehicle experienced an intermittent unintended acceleration. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-23
- VIN: WBAUN1C50BV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic signal, the contact heard an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the check engine warning was illuminated. The contact stated that he depressed the accelerator when the traffic signal changed, and the rattle was louder. The contact drove the vehicle back to the residence and parked. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was approximately 140,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-02
- VIN: WBAUP9C51BV
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine noise.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-07
- VIN: WBAUL7C52BV
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Three recall notices have been mailed to me. The BMW dealers say “remedy is not available”. My BMW has not been fixed. I have to drive 854 miles. Who is responsible if this VANOS assembly gives way on this lengthy drive?
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-04
- VIN: WBAUN1C53BV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Bmw 128i 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-30
- VIN: WBAUP9C51DV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 BMW 128I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Bmw 128i 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-24
- VIN: WBAUN1C50BV
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle's ignition coil and spark plugs have had to be replaced several times. Car lost power while driving. Stalled engine at red lights and green. The PCV Valve Heater is causing the ignition coil and spark plugs to malfunction, leading to expensive repairs.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw 128i
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 34 recalls for different components of the Bmw 128i.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw 128i 2008
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
- Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 128i 2009
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
- Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 128i 2010
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
- Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 128i 2011
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
- Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
- Model: Bmw 128i 2013
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-02
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan (325i, 325xi, 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 330i, 330xi); 2006-2012 3 Series Wagon (328i, 328i xDrive); 2007-2013 3 Series Convertible (328i); 2006-2010 5 Series Sedan (525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi); 2006-2007 5 Series Wagon (530xi); 2007-2010 X5 SAV (X5 3.0si, X5 xDrive30i); 2006-2008 Z4 Coupe (Z4 3.0si); and 2006-2011 Z4 Roadster (Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si, Z4 sDrive30i) vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
- Consequence: An electrical short can cause the PCV valve heater to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or, soon after driving when parked.
- Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge. This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to come back for the new recall remedy. The remedy is currently being developed. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 22, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Are you having problems with your Bmw 128i?
