Used BMW 116

What to know before buying: BMW 116

From 3 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The F20 stands out for precise steering, a balanced chassis and engaging rear-wheel-drive handling.[2][6]F20
• The F20's boot is not small and its seatbacks fold; officially, capacity grew to 360 litres and 1,200 litres with the seats down.[2][1][6]F20
• The F20 cabin feels high-quality and cosy, with a comfortable driving position; a 2014 116d also had enough rear room behind a 180 cm driver.[2][1][6]F20
• The tested 2012 116i was quiet and comfortable day to day, while its 1.6-litre turbo and eight-speed automatic felt responsive around town.[5]one sourceF20

Typical faults

• On 2007–2011 E87 116d cars with the N47, a tensioner defect can break the timing chain and severely damage the engine, usually at 80,000–150,000 km.[3][4]E87

  80 000–150 000 km · 2007–2011 · N47 2.0 diesel

• The 116d's DPF can clog with predominantly short urban trips, causing power loss, higher fuel use and limp mode.[4]one sourceE87F20

  116d diesel

• The 116d turbo can wear prematurely when oil changes are neglected or a hot engine is routinely switched off; signs include power loss, oil consumption and blue-grey smoke.[3][4]

  116d diesel

• The F20's 1.6-litre direct-injection petrol engine has reported intake carbon buildup, rocker-cover oil leaks and a cracking coolant reservoir.[5]one sourceF20

  1.6 turbo petrol

Which engine and version to take

• The 2014 F20 116d's 116 hp 2.0-litre N47 offers adequate performance and straightforward servicing; the reviewed car had no failures over 62,000 km.[1]one sourceF20

What to avoid

• Avoid a 2007–2011 E87 116d with the N47 unless timing-chain inspection or replacement is documented, because a break can destroy the engine.[3][4]E87

What to check at the inspection

• Cold-start the N47 and listen for metallic rattling from the rear of the engine; verify records for timing-chain inspection or replacement.[4]one sourceE87F20
• During a 116d test drive, check for power loss, increased fuel use or a DPF warning, which can indicate a blocked filter.[4]one sourceE87F20
• Check whether the 116d loses power, consumes oil or emits blue-grey smoke, and inspect the turbo oil lines as well.[4]one source
• On an F20 hatchback, inspect the boot and beneath the seats: a blocked rear drain or loose seat fixings can lead to damp, mould and rust.[5]one sourceF20
• Test the windows, mirrors, fuel flap, lighting and dashboard warnings; sources report faults in these electrical items and in wiring beneath the seats.[3][4][5]F20

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Жизнь автомеханика в Германии — BMW 116d. Review of an inexpensive practical car. · ▶ video
2. [2]iauto.lv — Jaunā BMW 1.sērijas paaudze ir klāt · forum
3. [3]otoniel.es — Problemas comunes en el BMW serie 1 116D · press
4. [4]totalrenting.es — BMW Serie 1 116D Problemas | Fallos y averías más ... · press
5. [5]Max Gal — Bmw 116i sport, The best value used car you shouldn't buy. · ▶ video
6. [6]Pavel Mikhaylov — BMW 116i F20 Review. The Most Authentic BMW · ▶ video

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