2021 BMW 1 Series: known problems and what to check
Too few BMW 1 Series cars first registered in 2021 had an MOT during 2025 for reliable MOT figures. Here’s what we do know about the 2021 BMW 1 Series, and what to check before you buy one.
Known faults on the 2021 BMW 1 Series
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Electrical and warning light faults
The main faults reported are electrical: warning lights with no clear cause and infotainment faults.
At the viewing: Test the screen and check no warning lights stay on.
- Diesel
Particulate filter warnings (diesel)
Diesels have more problems, including DPF warnings and engine management faults.
At the viewing: Ask what journeys it does, and watch for warning lights.
- Some cars
Airbag and camshaft recalls (2020)
Recalls covered the driver's airbag fabric (about 1,100 cars) and camshaft bearing cap screws that could come loose (39 cars).
At the viewing: Ask a BMW dealer to confirm the recalls were done.
What to check on a 2021 car
- MOT history
Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.
- Service history
Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.
- Finance and write-offs
MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.
- Test drive
Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.
Looking at a BMW 1 Series?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the BMW 1 Series compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | – | Too few tests |
| 2020 | – | Too few tests |
| 2019 | 45,249 | Tyres 25% |
| 2018 | 36,394 | Tyres 25% |
| 2017 | 22,214 | Tyres 24% |
| 2016 | 8,211 | Tyres 23% |
| 2015 | 4,515 | Tyres 23% |
| 2014 | 5,815 | Tyres 25% |
| 2013 | 46,392 | Tyres 32% |
| 2012 | 39,866 | Tyres 33% |
| 2011 | 7,344 | Tyres 31% |
| 2010 | 6,307 | Tyres 35% |
| 2009 | 5,465 | Tyres 36% |
| 2008 | 4,129 | Brakes 41% |
| 2007 | 2,814 | Brakes 46% |
| 2006 | 1,813 | Brakes 47% |
| 2005 | 1,773 | Brakes 49% |
| 2004 | 460 | Suspension 43% |
Where this comes from: how many are on the road is from the Department for Transport’s vehicle licensing statistics (DVLA records), counted by the year each car was first registered. Known faults are from UK buying guides, in our own words, with links. How we score