BMW 1 Series years to avoid
The BMW 1 Series years to avoid are 2011 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 2012 is the cleanest year on record.
134
Total complaints
4
Recall campaigns
2000–2012
Years covered
1
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
1 Series years to avoid
| Year | Why | Complaints | vs avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | High complaint rate | 44 |
Every 1 Series year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 0 | 1 | |
| 2011avoid | 44 | 3 | |
| 2010 | 10 | 3 | |
| 2009 | 23 | 2 | |
| 2008 | 24 | 3 | |
| 2007 | 9 | 0 | |
| 2006 | 7 | 0 | |
| 2005 | 3 | 0 | |
| 2004 | 6 | 0 | |
| 2003 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2002 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2001 | 3 | 0 | |
| 2000 | 3 | 0 |
Common questions
What are the worst BMW 1 Series years?
Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the 1 Series years to avoid are 2011. The cleanest year on record is 2012.
What is the best year for the BMW 1 Series?
By complaint volume, 2012 has the cleanest NHTSA record among 1 Series years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the BMW 1 Series have?
Across all model years, the 1 Series has 4 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 134 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 28, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.