2012 BMW 1 Series Problems: 0 Complaints, 1 Recall

The worst 2012 BMW 1 Series problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported October 20, 2023 · 157,796 vehicles affected

What is wrong: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2010-2012 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series Sedan, 3 Series Convertible, 2010-2011 3 Series Sportswagon, 3 Series Coupe, 5 Series Sedan, X3 xDrive 28i, X3 xDrive 30i, X5 xDrive30i, and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The aluminum bolts that secure the housing for the variable camshaft timing adjustment (VANOS) unit can loosen over time and possibly break.
Risk: Loose or broken VANOS unit bolts can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the four VANOS bolts, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed December 18, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1‑800‑525‑7417.

Recall number 23V707000 · Recall details

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 2012 BMW 1 Series before you buy

Is the 2012 BMW 1 Series reliable?

Owners have filed 0 complaints about the 2012 BMW 1 Series.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 BMW 1 Series?

There are not enough complaints to tell.

How many recalls does the 2012 BMW 1 Series have?

1 recall, covering engine and engine cooling.

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.