Recalls: BMW F20 1-Series hatch
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: BMW F20 1-Series hatch
2012-13 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch: loss of brake assistance
In October 2013, a recall was issued for F20 1-Series hatch vehicles that were available for sale from 1 November 2012 to 31 July 2013. In these vehicles, the vacuum pump may fail due to a lack of lubrication. As a result, the power brake boost unit would not be supplied with sufficient vacuum force, reducing the effectiveness of the brake assistance function. In turn, reduced braking effectiveness posed a hazard to the driver and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, pleasesee (PRA 2013/13801).
2014-17 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch: Takata airbag recall
In December 2018, a staged recall campaign was initiated for BMW ‘F Series’ models – this included 2014-17 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch vehicles. These vehicles had Takata driver’s airbags and the propellant wafers in these airbags could absorb moisture over time. In the event of airbag deployment, excessive internal pressure could cause the metal inflator housing to rupture and metallic fragments could be projected through the airbag cushion towards vehicle occupants – these fragments posed a risk of serious injury and fatality. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17191.
2011-12 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch: camshaft timing unit bolts could break
In November 2023, recall campaign 0011520700 was issued for 2011-12 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch vehicles. In these vehicles, the bolts connecting the variable camshaft timing unit (BMW’s ‘VANOS’) to the engine may break. If this occurred, the vehicle’s ‘limp home’ safety mode may be activated, the engine warning light may illuminate and the vehicle may lose motive power. A loss of motive power while driving could increase the risk of a collision and injury to vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-005810.
2011-17 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch and F21 M135i: Takata airbag inflator
In July 2024, recall campaigns 0032550300 and 0032790300 were issued for 2011-17 BMW F20 1-Series Hatch and F21 M135i vehicles. After production, some of these vehicles may have been converted with steering wheels that contained faulty Takata airbag inflators. In the event of airbag deployment, the airbag inflator may rupture and metal fragments may be propelled through the airbag cushion towards vehicle occupants – this posed a risk of serious injury or death. BMW provided an online tool at www.recall.bmw.com.au that enabled owners to upload photos of their VIN plate and steering wheel for further checking. Alternatively, owners could contact an authorised BMW dealer to schedule an appointment to have their steering wheel checked. If a faulty airbag inflator was found, the airbag (with centre horn pad) would be replaced. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-006035.
Problems and faults: BMW F20 1-Series Hatch
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: BMW F20 1-Series hatch
No troubleshooting information is currently available for the BMW F20 1-Series hatch.
