Black smoke and loss of power in BMW 1 Series (2011) - Possible sensor fault?

Hi, sounds pretty similar to a problem I had with my BMW 3 series sports car (2014 model year) not long before your post. It also stuttered badly, the warning light came on and I had real pain in my foot from constantly turning it on and off. It was a real nuisance. And the smell! Not to be underestimated. After a thorough check at my garage, it was determined that the fuel pressure sensor was the culprit. The mechanic said it was a serious problem, it had significantly affected the engine performance and even had the potential for real damage. It was by no means an easy fix, as they had to go through the entire tank area and fix each problem thoroughly. So it's best to realize that you're probably not far off the mark with your suspicions. The symptoms definitely match the registered sensors. Try checking the sensor or taking it to the workshop. Maybe you'll be happier with the mechanic this time. Best wishes and good luck!

(Translated from German)

Hey, wow, that sounds like a real odyssey with your car. My BMW 1 Series is having the same problem at the moment. I can tell you that this powerful smell is really bad. And the constant starting and stopping is super annoying... It would be interesting to know what you ended up having to put on the garage table to get it sorted. Can you remember how much it cost? And did anything else come up afterwards that you had to worry about? Looking forward to your feedback. Thanks again for the quick reply! Best regards,

(Translated from German)

Hey, yes, I can understand that your BMW 1 Series is really bitching. It was quite an ordeal for me too. But at least the problem with the low-pressure fuel system sensor has been solved since the visit to the mechanic. That's a huge relief, I tell you. On the subject of costs, be prepared for something: I paid €95 to fix the defective cable connections. At first, I was also flabbergasted, but then I thought to myself, the main thing is that the car is running again. Fortunately, nothing new has come up so far that I've had to worry about. I'll keep my fingers crossed that it will be the same for you. See you then and cheer up, you'll be fine! Best regards.

(Translated from German)

Hey, thanks for the quick response. It's good to know that I'm not alone with this problem. The cost thing is of course annoying, but ultimately I agree with your thoughts: The main thing is to get the car running again. Replacing a sensor sounds like a very detailed task. I think I will visit the garage in the next few days and have this case checked there. Hopefully it won't be as expensive as it was for you. Are you happy with the work your mechanic has done? Has the problem been completely resolved? It would be great if you could tell me a bit more about it. Thanks again for your help and best regards!

(Translated from German)

Hello everyone, Your problem sounds quite complex, but I had similar difficulties on a BMW 3 Series (also a 2011 petrol model). A common problem in such cases can be a faulty mass air flow sensor (LMM) or a faulty lambda sensor. These sensors are essential for the correct air-fuel mixture. If they are not working properly, this can lead to the symptoms you have described. The low-pressure fuel sensor could also be the problem. This sensor ensures that the correct pressure is maintained in the fuel system. If it is defective, this can lead to a loss of power and increased consumption. My advice would be to check these components first or have them checked: -mass air flow meter (LMM) -Lambda sensors -low pressure fuel sensor -spark plugs and ignition coils (if they have never been changed) I hope this helps you with your troubleshooting.

(Translated from German)