2008 BMW 1-Series Reliability Review

#6

in Upscale Small Cars

Based on analysis of 22 1-Series reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $28,600 - $34,900
Invoice: $26,310 - $32,110
MPG: 18 City / 28 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:7.6
Performance:8.5
Exterior:4.9
Interior:6.8
Safety:NA
Reliability:8.0

Reliability

The 2008 BMW 1-Series reliability score of 8.0 out of 10 is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

BMW's standard warranty provides basic coverage for the first four-years or 50,000 miles. BMW also offers a full maintenance program where regularly scheduled maintenance is complimentary at any BMW dealership.

The newness of the 1-series makes determining its reliability difficult, but it does share the same drivetrain as the larger BMW 3-Series. Consumer Guide reports the 3-Series 3.2 engine in models from 2001 to 2003 had connecting-rod-bearing issues, possibly because car owners had difficulties finding the recommended 10W-60 synthetic oil for the engine. Those models received an extended warranty for six years or 100,000 miles.

  • "BMW's new entry-level cars deliver the marque's revered panache and dynamic properties with few other sacrifices, making them noteworthy additions to the line--and your shopping list." -- Consumer Guide
  • "All 1 Series include no-cost, no-charge wear and tear items for four years / 50,000 miles and no-charge road assist for four years." -- The Auto Channel

J.D. Power Auto Customer Satisfaction J.D.Power Ratings

Initial Quality Ratings

These scores come from consumer ratings of their vehicles after the first few months of ownership.

Feature 2008 2007
Overall Quality - Mechanical
Powertrain Quality - Mechanical
Body & Interior Quality - Mechanical
Features & Accessories Quality - Mechanical
Overall Quality - Design
Powertrain Quality - Design
Body & Interior Quality - Design
Features & Accessories Quality - Design

Dependability Ratings

These scores come from consumer ratings of their vehicles after three years of ownership.

Feature N/A N/A
Overall Dependability
Powertrain Dependability
Feature & Accessory Dependability
Body & Interior Dependability

J.D. Power and Associates Power Circles Ratings do not include all information used to determine J.D. Power and Associates awards. See JDPower.com for more information on Power Circles Ratings. Since driving styles and conditions are unique to each owner, your experience may vary. Furthermore, any Power Circle Ratings based on historic data of past years studies may also reflect different results if current users were again measured.

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Review Last Updated: 7/29/08