BMW 116i
Entry-level four-cylinder for the first 1 Series generation. Adequate for city use but with little power reserve on the motorway.
Dependable Workhorse
Four-cylinder without direct injection — reliable, but zero personality.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The timing chain stretches prematurely due to a faulty chain tensioner. Plastic guide rails become brittle and break. Engine damage from chain jump is possible.
Symptoms: Rattling or clattering on cold start in the first few seconds, which improves or worsens as the engine warms up.
The N45B16 chain tensioner gradually loses its pre-load force. BMW revised the part three times without issuing an official recall. The latest tensioner variant has a narrower bolt head as a distinguishing feature.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, engine warning light, irregular engine noise after starting.
The O-ring on the eccentric shaft sensor on the cam cover becomes porous — oil enters the connector and destroys the contacts. Fault code 2A70 (Valvetronic measurement implausible) is typical.
Symptoms: Occasional hesitation when pulling away, fluctuating idle speed, increased fuel consumption, warning light with fault code 2A70.
The electric Valvetronic actuator motor fails, causing the engine to enter limp mode limited to 3,000 rpm. Typically follows the eccentric shaft sensor problem.
Symptoms: Severe power loss, limp mode active (max. 3,000 rpm), sluggish throttle response, engine warning light permanently on.
The VANOS solenoid valves wear and cause rpm fluctuations, power loss, and starting difficulties, especially at low revs.
Symptoms: Rpm fluctuations at idle, power loss at low revs, occasional starting difficulties.
The gasket between the oil filter housing and the engine block becomes brittle and leaks oil. Typical from 70,000–130,000 km, often with an oil puddle under the vehicle.
Symptoms: Oil leak under the engine, oil smell after driving, visible oil streaks on the engine block below the filter.
Ignition coils from the 2004–2007 production run can fail prematurely and cause misfires. BMW replaced them free of charge in many cases — mainly affects early E87 examples.
Symptoms: Rough engine running, hesitation under load, misfire fault codes (P030x), elevated exhaust emissions.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
The electromechanical power steering (EPS) can fail completely on 2007–2012 models. A recall was issued for certain production years.
Rear subframe is prone to severe corrosion from around 100,000 km, including through-rust. MOT failure possible. Repair often costs more than the car is worth.
Broken suspension springs and rusty spring perches are frequently flagged on the E87 per TÜV reports. Worn track rod ends are also a known defect. Affects both front and rear axle.
Rust forms on the tailgate particularly around the badges and rear wiper. Hemmed edges and hinges can also be affected.
Water enters through faulty door seals, blocked sunroof drains, or cracked body grommets, reaching the footwell and boot. Electrical damage possible.
Rubber bushings on the rear control arms lose their elasticity. Camber change and MOT failure possible. Replace both sides simultaneously.
Handbrake and faulty brake hoses frequently fail MOT on the E87. Known inspection failure point for this generation.
Reports & Tests
93 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2004–2011). Most reported: Airbags (35), Engine (17), Electrical (15).