116d 1.5d (B37)
2015–2019 · diesel · 1496cc · 116hp
Engine codes: B37D15
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 1.5d (B37). Check this before you buy used.
The 116 hp B37 three-cylinder in the F20 116d (2015–2019): the modular diesel that replaced the N47. The timing chain is still at the gearbox end but with far stronger parts, and chain failures are no longer the story. What remains is ordinary modern-diesel care — the EGR cooler (covered by BMW's 2018 recall), a DPF that hates short trips, and injectors at high mileage. The three-cylinder is a little rougher at idle and harder on engine mounts.
Known Issues
BMW recalled a wide range of 2010–2017 four- and six-cylinder diesels in 2018 because the EGR cooler could leak coolant; glycol deposits in the EGR system could, in rare cases, ignite. Even after the recall the EGR valve and cooler clog on short-trip cars.
Fix / Workaround: Check that the EGR recall has been carried out (BMW dealer VIN check). Clean or replace a clogged EGR valve; drive regularly on the motorway.
Repair cost: €300–€1200
The DPF clogs and regenerations fail on city-only use; oil dilution follows.
Fix / Workaround: Motorway runs, low-ash oil, check soot load before buying.
Repair cost: €300–€1500
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
The B37/B47 also drive the cams from the gearbox end, but with a much stronger chain set than the N47; failures are isolated rather than typical.
Fix / Workaround: Still listen at the back on a cold start on high-mileage cars.
Typically appears after: 200,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 150,000 km: EGR and DPF are the usual first big items.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐EGR recall done (VIN check)
- ☐DPF soot load and regeneration history
- ☐Cold start quiet at the gearbox end
- ☐Service history every 15,000–20,000 km rather than Longlife
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 1.5d (B37) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The 116 hp B37 three-cylinder in the F20 116d (2015–2019): the modular diesel that replaced the N47. The timing chain is still at the gearbox end but with far stronger parts, and chain failures are no longer the story. What remains is ordinary modern-diesel care — the EGR cooler (covered by BMW's 2018 recall), a DPF that hates short trips, and injectors at high mileage. The three-cylinder is a little rougher at idle and harder on engine mounts.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 1.5d (B37)?
The most commonly reported problems: EGR cooler — 2018 recall, DPF and short trips, Rear timing chain (improved).
Is a used Bmw 1 Series F20 116d 1.5d (B37) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.