118i 1.6 Turbo (N13)
2011–2015 · petrol · 1598cc · 170hp
Engine codes: N13B16
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 118i 1.6 Turbo (N13). Check this before you buy used.
The 170 hp N13 1.6 turbo (F20 118i, 2011–2015) belongs to the BMW–PSA "Prince" family and shares its weaknesses: timing-chain stretch and tensioner wear (cold-start rattle), direct-injection carbon on the intake valves, oil consumption and turbo/oil-feed issues. BMW did not run a European recall for the chain. The B38 three-cylinder that replaced it in 2015 is the better buy; an N13 needs proof of a renewed chain.
Known Issues
Chain and tensioner wear: a rattle for a few seconds after a cold start, then cam-timing faults; ignored, the chain can jump and bend valves.
Fix / Workaround: Replace chain, guides, tensioner and sprockets together at the first cold rattle.
Repair cost: €1000–€1500
Typically appears after: 80,000 km
Direct injection leaves carbon on the intake valves (misfires, rough idle); oil consumption and a sooty, oil-hungry engine are common at higher mileage.
Fix / Workaround: Walnut-blast the intake valves; check oil use over 1,000 km.
Repair cost: €300–€600
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Turbo wear from coked oil feed lines and long intervals.
Fix / Workaround: Oil every 10,000–15,000 km; check shaft play.
Repair cost: €800–€1500
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 80,000 km: Chain rattle onset — check for a renewed chain.
Fault Codes to Scan
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Cold start: rattle for the first seconds = chain
- ☐Chain invoice
- ☐Oil use and smoke
- ☐Prefer the 2015+ B38 118i
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bmw 1 Series F20 118i 1.6 Turbo (N13) reliable?
Problematic — The 170 hp N13 1.6 turbo (F20 118i, 2011–2015) belongs to the BMW–PSA "Prince" family and shares its weaknesses: timing-chain stretch and tensioner wear (cold-start rattle), direct-injection carbon on the intake valves, oil consumption and turbo/oil-feed issues. BMW did not run a European recall for the chain. The B38 three-cylinder that replaced it in 2015 is the better buy; an N13 needs proof of a renewed chain.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Bmw 1 Series F20 118i 1.6 Turbo (N13)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain stretch and tensioner, Carbon build-up and oil consumption, Turbo and oil feed.
Is a used Bmw 1 Series F20 118i 1.6 Turbo (N13) worth buying?
Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.