2019 BMW 120i

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2019 BMW 120i, categorized by system, engine option, and issue type. The 2019 BMW 120i is a popular hatchback known for its sporty handling and premium interior. It offered a range of engine options, including the 1.5L 3-cylinder petrol (118i), a 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol (120i), and diesel variants as well. The 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine in the 120i produces around 184 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque. Owners generally appreciate the car’s driving dynamics and fuel efficiency but sometimes complain about the firm ride and limited rear passenger space.

Engine

B48 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (120i)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on cold start, engine misfires, check engine light illumination. This is more common in earlier versions of the B48 engine but can still occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides. Inspecting the sprockets is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil seepage around the valve cover gasket, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Water Pump/Thermostat Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible coolant leaks. The plastic thermostat housing is prone to cracking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat housing. It’s often recommended to replace both simultaneously.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

B38 1.5L Turbocharged Inline-3 (118i)

• No Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin 8-Speed Automatic (All Models)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear, hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement, adaptation reset, or in some cases, valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush $300-$500, valve body $1500-$3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of drive, transmission malfunction warning on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, random reboots, connectivity issues with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive control unit (if a software update doesn’t resolve the issue).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $100 - $300, iDrive unit replacement: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, warning messages related to low battery voltage.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws, test and replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement $300-$500, Diagnosis and parasitic draw repair $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive LED Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights not leveling correctly, error messages related to adaptive headlight system.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the headlights, replacement of the headlight control module, or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Recalibration: $100 - $300, Control module: $500 - $1000, Headlight assembly: $1000 - $2000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors cause warning chimes when nothing is nearby, or failing to alert to objects in close proximity.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty parking sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Creaking Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying creaking noises coming from the dashboard area, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Tightening of dashboard components, application of felt tape to reduce friction between panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, failing to open or close completely, excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication $50-$100, Motor/Mechanism $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 BMW 120i can experience a range of issues, with the most common relating to engine components, transmission behavior, and electrical systems. Engine issues like timing chain problems and oil leaks can be costly to repair, while transmission troubles such as rough shifting or mechatronic unit failure can also lead to significant expenses. Electrical problems with the iDrive system and battery drain are also notable. Interior creaking and sunroof issues, while less severe, can impact the overall ownership experience. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering the purchase of a used 2019 BMW 120i.