The last rear-wheel-drive BMW 1 Series and the only one with a straight-six engine under the bonnet. The B58 3.0-litre turbo delivers 340 hp through either a 6-speed manual or the smooth ZF 8HP50 automatic, with optional xDrive all-wheel drive. Produced for just three model years (2016-2019), the M140i has developed a strong following as one of the best driver-focused fast hatchbacks of its era.
Robust B58 inline-six engine
Last RWD six-cylinder hatchback
Oil filter housing coolant leak
PCV diaphragm degrades over time
Buy if: You want a fast, characterful straight-six hatchback and can commit to proactive coolant system monitoring and BMW-level maintenance costs.
Avoid if: You expect cheap running costs or plan to ignore the cooling system, which needs periodic attention on all B58 engines.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Plastic coolant vent hose and OFHG gasket degrade from heat, causing coolant loss around 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The B58 engine's oil filter housing module uses a small plastic coolant vent hose that connects to the expansion tank. After approximately 80,000-120,000 km, the intense heat cycles cause the plastic to become brittle and the rubber gaskets to harden. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell after driving, slowly declining coolant level, and white crystalline residue near the filter housing. A permanent repair requires replacing the full OFHG gasket set, the plastic vent hose, and the single-use aluminum bolts simultaneously. Independent specialist cost is typically €600-900, while BMW dealers charge €1,000-1,500. A class action lawsuit was filed against BMW in early 2026 regarding this issue on B46, B48, and B58 engines, confirming how widespread it is. If ignored, low coolant can lead to overheating and serious engine damage.
Rubber PCV diaphragm inside the valve cover tears over time, causing oil smoke and rough running · more· less
The B58 crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve is integrated into the valve cover rather than being a separate part. The rubber diaphragm responsible for oil separation can tear or rupture, typically after 80,000-130,000 km. Symptoms include blue/white exhaust smoke, oil consumption increase, rough idle, and potentially limp mode. BMW issued a warranty extension (SIB 01 14 23) covering the PCV for 15 years/240,000 km from the original in-service date, so many M140i examples may still be covered. If out of warranty, aftermarket PCV diaphragm repair kits cost €50-150 and can be installed without removing the valve cover. Full OEM valve cover replacement at a dealer costs €800-1,200 including labor.
Variable valve timing solenoid O-rings harden and leak, causing rough idle and fault codes · more· less
The VANOS solenoid O-rings are a common wear point on the B58. As the rubber O-rings age and harden, they allow oil to seep past, which triggers VANOS fault codes, rough idle, and reduced performance. This typically occurs after 80,000-100,000 km. The repair is relatively straightforward: the solenoids themselves cost approximately €80-100 each, and replacement takes about 30 minutes. Total professional repair cost is €200-500 depending on whether one or both solenoids need attention. Many M140i owners report this as a simple DIY fix.
Valve cover gasket degrades from repeated heat cycles, allowing oil to weep onto the exhaust side · more· less
Like most BMW engines, the B58 valve cover gasket degrades over time as the rubber compound hardens through repeated heat cycles. Oil begins to seep past the gasket, often visible as oil residue on the exhaust side of the engine. This typically appears after 80,000-120,000 km. The gasket itself costs €30-80, but labor is the main expense due to the components that need to be removed for access. Independent shops typically charge €400-600, while BMW dealers quote €600-900. This is a good time to also replace the PCV diaphragm if not already done.
Electronic wastegate actuator develops play, creating a metallic rattle at idle and low throttle · more· less
The B58 turbocharger's electronic wastegate can develop a metallic rattle or buzzing noise, most noticeable at idle or very light throttle. This is caused by play in the wastegate actuator arm bearing. On many cars this is cosmetic and does not affect performance or boost control. The rattle tends to worsen gradually over time. If it becomes severe, the wastegate actuator can be shimmed or the bushings replaced for €200-400. In rare cases requiring turbo actuator replacement, costs reach €500-800. Many owners live with the noise as it has no measurable effect on engine performance.
Output bearings in the rear differential develop a whine at cruising speed, typically after 100,000+ km · more· less
The rear differential output bearings can develop wear over time, producing a hum or whine most audible between 3,000-4,000 rpm at steady cruising speeds, typically in fifth or sixth gear. The noise changes when lifting off the throttle. This is more common on RWD M140i models that have been driven hard. Many owners report driving 50,000+ km with the noise without further deterioration. However, leaving it too long risks damage to the more expensive ring and pinion gears. Bearing replacement costs €800-1,200 at a specialist, while a full differential rebuild runs €1,500-2,000.
The 6-speed manual clutch wears faster than expected, especially on tuned cars · more· less
BMW fitted a clutch delay valve (CDV) to protect the gearbox, which intentionally increases clutch plate wear to reduce gearbox stress. On stock cars, clutch life is typically 80,000-120,000 km depending on driving style. Tuned M140i models with increased torque can burn through a clutch much sooner. Symptoms include clutch slip under hard acceleration, a high biting point, or difficulty engaging gears. OEM clutch replacement costs €1,200-1,500 at an independent specialist. An upgraded clutch (Sachs Performance or similar) costs €1,500-2,000 installed and is recommended if the car is tuned. This only applies to manual gearbox cars.
Reliable for a performance car, but coolant system needs watching
The B58 engine in the M140i is widely regarded as one of BMW's most reliable modern engines, and high-mileage examples with 200,000+ km exist without major powertrain issues. The main concerns are the cooling system weak points (OFHG and vent hose) which are a known design weakness across all B58 applications, and the PCV diaphragm which BMW partially addressed with a warranty extension. The ZF 8HP automatic is extremely robust, and even the 6-speed manual is dependable when not abused. With proactive maintenance and regular coolant level checks, the M140i is a rewarding long-term ownership proposition.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Takata airbag inflator replacement (various production dates)
Verify completed
Seatbelt pretensioner wiring harness (2016-2018 production)
Verify completed
PCV valve cover warranty extension (SIB 01 14 23) — 15 years/240,000 km coverage
Check eligibility with BMW dealer
Contact a BMW dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The PCV warranty extension is particularly important as it can save significant repair costs on the valve cover assembly.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years, 3 years from Nov 2016)
Expired on all M140i models
PCV valve cover extended warranty
15 years / 240,000 km from first registration
Rust perforation warranty (12 years)
May still apply on 2016-2019 cars
All M140i models are outside their original factory warranty. However, the PCV valve cover warranty extension (15 years/240,000 km) may still be active — verify with a BMW dealer using the VIN. This covers the PCV diaphragm failure which is one of the most common B58 issues.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.