I’m considering buying an older (2007-2009) 116i Automatic N43 as an all rounder car.

I have no experience with these cars but it seems all online forums are pointing out timing chain problem, various expensive engine issues and calling these cars ticking time bombs etc

are these cars that bad? or is it just case of unlucky owners and “loud minority” being posted online? I see many 1 Series of that era on roads.

my other options are Audi A3 or VW Golf of similar age.

do you think I’m better off avoiding the older 1 series?

I really like the looks/feel of them and they are available for similar price to A3 and VW with similar insurance quotes (important for me)

Advice appreciated.

 

Hi Sam

Welcome to the Forum

Remember that no matter who the manufacturer or what the model a Forum normally is about issues and fixes, sadly there isn't a way of measuring the actual number of incidence against the number of cars sold.

There are many who believe it is the "Longlife" service schedules introduced by many manufacturers that are at the bottom of the most failures. An engine with say 20k service periods misses a service ? The oil in a modern engine doesn't just lubricate it helps control engine temperature. With extended service periods the oil absorbs carbon deposits which then get left in places they shouldn't causing wear often accelerated. I am one of the many who subscribe to oil and filter changes every 5k or at least annually. So Service History and evidence of regular oil and filter changes is the key to any engines life span.

So buy carefully with a good documented history and then look after your investment (even VW/Audi have extended service plans) 

Dave