With the offer of vehicles found in the BMW 2 Series and the subcompact models this series offers, buyers are spoiled for choice. However, for those looking for a simple hatchback, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is the choice. Though not one without caveats, hence why we’ll take a look at BMW 2 Series Active Tourer problems.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer was first revealed in 2014, though concepts for this model have been made in 2012 and 2013. The car is a two-row subcompact executive MPV with a front wheel drive. The design utilizes a 5-door hatchback body style, providing ample space.
The first generation of the BMW 2 Series Active tourer lasted from 2014 until 2021. During this period of time, the car was equipped with options of both petrol and diesel engines. Petrol variants include 1.5 L B38 I3 turbo, and 2.0 L B48 I4 turbo. Diesel engines include 1.5 L B37 I3 turbo and 2.0 L B47 I4 turbo. However, the vehicle would also get a plug-in hybrid petrol variant in the form of a 1.5 L B38A15M0 petrol I3 turbo.
The second generation started in 2021 and has seen little changes. It has lost the 1.5 L B37 I3 turbo option from its engine choices, however. The generation also utilizes the xDrive four-wheel drive which provides another choice of specifications for those looking into BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer Problems
Among the issues of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, we can find fuel system problems, transmission issues, and coolant leaks. Separately, a peculiar problem with the car’s airbags could prove dangerous for passengers as well.
- Fuel system problems
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has had issues with fuel systems that generally affect fuel pumps and fuel injectors. Either of them can cause quite a few problems for the general drive of the car. Poor performance and fuel efficiency are key concerns.
However, getting fewer miles out of our tank isn’t the only concern. The malfunction of these components can make our car’s engine suffer damage as well. The longer the problem persists the likelier we are to experience such issues.
- ABS problems
Airbags in BMW series 2 cars have been initiated a recall. Especially the older models, whose airbags could heavily malfunction. The volatile ammonium nitrate within the airbags, which is used to inflate them quickly, can deteriorate over time. [1]
Once it does, instead of properly inflating the airbag, it will cause the canister containing it to explode. The resulting shrapnel can be life-threatening while the compromisation of the airbag itself already causes heavy risks to anybody within the affected vehicle.
- Coolant leak
One of the more concerning issues of the BMW Active Tourer includes coolant leak problems. The problem affects the diesel engines of BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. The concern involves a potential glycol leak from the EGR system. This can cause a number of problems but the biggest concern is the possibility of fire. [2]
Recalls tied to this problem were issued for vehicles built between 2013 and 2018. Though 2018 and 2019 year models also have a recall for the same issue. With the fire hazard concerns staying the same. The warning signs of a coolant leak should be acted on as soon as possible.
- Transmission issues
BMW 2 series active tourer didn’t escape the transmission issues that seem to affect several similar models. Active Tourer maintains this particular issue across its many years of production. It’s not singularly present but the problems of transmission generally have the same symptoms if not causes. [3]
These are reduced drive, worse handling, and starting issues. Some specifics include dual-clutch transmission hesitation to start, which makes the car far worse to even get going.
It’s also possible that the issue will have the car jerk on start-up, making the start of each drive uncomfortable. The automatic transmission has also seen its fair share of problems, specifically ones that make shifting rough or not happen at all.
Solutions to BMW 2 Series Active Tourer Problems
With the number of issues, we also require some solutions to help the vehicle ensure the issues. Additionally, we will do much better in cutting costs if we can apply some DIY solutions. Though there aren’t many, we can do the following.
The issues with coolant leaks should be officially solved by professionals. However, we can get a chance to preemptively notice this problem. Make sure to consistently check your radiator, coolant reservoir cap, water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator hoses.
These components are the most frequent cause of coolant leak issues so paying attention to them is important. If your vehicle is suffering from the aforementioned EGR system issues, we should also pay attention to smoke or loose parts of the manifold of the cooler. This will ensure that the problem is taken care of before it becomes worse.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will likely end up suffering the transmission issues as noted above. Part of this can be mitigated or reduced in frequency by consistently refilling your transmission fluid. This will help the vehicle’s transmission function smoother in general so it’s good practice to maximize the smoothness of your drive.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer Problems
The warranty and recalls are the best friend of anybody suffering from car problems like this. Some issues have very high repair costs. The warranty and recalls can easily cut those down considerably. With some of the examples above like the coolant leak affecting recent car models, your vehicle may still be supported by the recall. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to check.
Related: BMW 116i Problems
Conclusion
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a vehicle with many benefits but a few defects to pay attention to. Though certain issues may have been solved previously, it pays to double-check if you are buying this vehicle. There are a few ways to regulate the problems that aren’t defect-related too, which we should make full use of.
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