2020 BMW 118i

2020 BMW 118i

The 2020 BMW 118i is a compact luxury hatchback that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and efficiency. It comes standard with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 140 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, delivering a lively and responsive driving experience. Other engine and transmission options include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which generates 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

While the BMW 118i has received positive reviews for its handling, performance, and stylish design, there have been some reported issues that owners have experienced. Here is a detailed list of the specific problems people are having with the vehicles:

Engine

• 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine:
  • Timing chain issues: Premature stretching or failure of the timing chain can cause the engine to lose power or stall. Solution: Replacement of the timing chain and related components; Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine:
  • High-pressure fuel pump failure: The high-pressure fuel pump can fail, causing the engine to lose power or fail to start. Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Turbocharger issues: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in reduced engine performance or a loss of power. Solution: Replacement or repair of the turbocharger; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine:
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 8-speed automatic transmission:
  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or fail to engage properly, causing difficulty in shifting gears or a loss of power. Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission; Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Mechatronic unit failure: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s operation, can fail, causing transmission problems or a loss of power. Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit; Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000

Suspension

• Front suspension noise: The front suspension may make excessive noise, such as rattling or clunking, when driving over rough roads or making turns. Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn or damaged suspension components; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery may drain prematurely, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or electrical system malfunctions. Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty component, such as the battery or alternator; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000
• Electrical system issues: Various electrical system problems have been reported, including faulty sensors, wiring issues, or malfunctioning modules. Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the affected components; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+

Exterior

• LED headlight condensation: The LED headlights may experience condensation or moisture buildup inside the lens. Solution: Inspection and replacement of affected headlight assemblies; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• Paint bubbling or peeling: The paint on the vehicle may bubble or peel, especially in areas exposed to the sun or harsh weather conditions. Solution: Repainting or touch-up of the affected areas; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000

Interior

• Center console trim peeling: The trim on the center console may peel or discolor over time. Solution: Replacement of the affected trim pieces; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Loud interior noise: Some owners have reported excessive road noise or wind noise entering the cabin. Solution: Inspection and application of sound-dampening materials; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Panoramic sunroof leaks: The panoramic sunroof may leak water into the cabin during heavy rain or car washes. Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of the sunroof seals; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear seatbelt buckle issues: The rear seatbelt buckles may become stuck or difficult to release. Solution: Inspection and replacement of affected seatbelt buckles; Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Summary

Overall, the 2020 BMW 118i is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but like any other car, it is not without its potential issues. While some of the reported problems, such as the timing chain issues with the 1.5-liter engine or the transmission slipping, can be costly to fix, many of the other problems are relatively minor and can be addressed at a reasonable cost. It’s important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to have them addressed promptly to ensure a positive and trouble-free ownership experience.