Used BMW 118

What to know before buying: BMW 118

From 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• Across 13 owner reviews, the BMW 118 scores 4.7/5 overall, with 5.0 for handling, 4.8 for reliability and 4.5 for comfort.[2]one source
• Buyers liked the first-generation 1 Series for its unusual styling and rear-wheel drive; Haynes also describes it as good fun to drive.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• The source describes the 118D as efficient and comfortable, without frequent major failures, although mileage and neglected maintenance increase the risk.[3]one source

Typical faults

• On first-generation automatics, the selector can become stuck in P; either the interlock solenoid or misadjusted selector cables may be responsible.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• On first-generation diesels, a damaged exhaust flexpipe can cause a droning noise from the front of the car.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1

  diesel

• Some first-generation cars suffer faulty timing-chain guides, tensioner and tensioner rail, signalled by a grinding noise from the engine.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• The clutch can occasionally seize on first-generation manuals; the dual-mass flywheel is usually responsible, though the clutch itself may be faulty.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• For the 2008 118D, the source reports leaks from the oil-pan gasket, indicated by oil spots or a burnt-oil smell.[3]one source

  2008–2008 · 118D

• One owner reported that a 2008 118d suffered a broken crankshaft bolt and engine destruction at 125,000 km; two cars from the same batch reportedly failed identically.[1]one source

  125 000–125 000 km · 2008–2008 · 118d

Which engine and version to take

• One forum contributor recommends a pre-facelift diesel from roughly no later than 2007 with an M-series engine, provided the intake flaps are removed; this is an individual opinion.[1]one source

What to avoid

• Treat the 2008 118d with particular caution: one owner reported repeated warranty failures and engine destruction at 125,000 km affecting three cars from one batch.[1]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Start the engine cold and listen for grinding; on a first-generation car it can indicate faulty timing-chain guides or tensioner components.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• On an automatic, repeatedly move the selector from P to D and R. If it sticks, a fault code points to the solenoid; no code suggests cable adjustment.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• During a diesel test drive, listen for droning from the front, which can indicate a damaged exhaust flexpipe.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• On a manual, check that the clutch operates freely and every gear engages without binding; seizure may point to the dual-mass flywheel or clutch.[4]one sourceBMW 1-Series Mk1
• On a 2008 118D, inspect the parking spot and underside of the engine for oil marks, and check for a burnt-oil smell.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — BMW 118d Pro's and Con's - Forums · forum
2. [2]auto.ria.com — 13 отзывов о BMW 118 · press
3. [3]otoniel.es — Problemas frecuentes en el BMW serie 1 118D · press
4. [4]uk.haynes.com — BMW 1-Series common problems (2004-2013) · press

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