BMW X1 reliability
The BMW X1 fails its MOT less often than most cars 6 to 10 years old: 17.6% of 46,569 tests failed in 2023, against 24.4% on average.
40 DVSA recalls for the BMW X1
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
Replace the Driver’s Airbag – Takata PSDI-5
Affected vehicles may be fitted with a drivers airbag which may deploy with too much explosive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released into the cabin. It has the potential to fatally or seriously injure vehicle occupants.
Fix: Affected vehicles will have the airbag replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 38,466 vehicles
Takata Driver and/or Passenger Airbag Recall (Global VINs)
Affected vehicles are already included in Safety Recalls within the markets they have previously resided in. The vehicles may be fitted with a driver and/or passenger airbag/s which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury which could prove fatal to people in the vicinity.
Fix: Vehicles will have the affected airbags checked and if necessary replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 1,233 vehicles
Seat Belt Rear Outer Seats
On affected vehicles either one or both of the outer most rear seats may not have been manufactured correctly and the sensitivity sensor may be deformed. If the sensor is not functioning correctly there is a risk the seat belt may not operate as intended.
Fix: On affected vehicles the affected seatbelts will be checked and replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 127 vehicles
Front Seat Belt Retractor
On affected vehicles the front seat belts may have damage to the torsion bar caused during manufacture. The retention function of the seat belt may not perform as expected in the event of an accident.
Fix: Affected vehicles will have the affected seatbelts replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 352 vehicles
Checking the B-Pillar U11
Affected vehicles may have a B-Pillar which may have been produced using incorrect materials.
Fix: Affected vehicles will have an inspection conducted and if an affected B-Pillar is found it will be replaced with a component of the correct specification.
Recalled models: X1 · 1,322 vehicles
Hydraulic Brake System Unit Replacement
On affected vehicles the brake servomotor was improperly welded. The weld seam might not withstand the stresses caused under high brake pressure leading to a requirement for a higher brake effort increasing the braking distance.
Fix: Affected vehicles will have the hydraulic unit of the brake system replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 33 vehicles
Check Driver’s Airbag for Conversion Takata SDI & PSDI-5
Affected vehicles may have had a retrofit or conversion of the airbag using a previously recalled airbag variant which if deployed may do so with excessive force causing sharp metal fragments to be released this may cause serious injury possibly fatal to people in the vicinity. The original factory fitment airbag for the vehicle is not affected.
Fix: Vehicles will have the airbag checked and if necessary replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 100 vehicles
Integrated Braking System
On certain vehicles the Integrated Brake (IB) system may be impaired due to contamination between electrical contacts.
Fix: Vehicles that may be affected by contamination are required to have the vehicle’s software updated which can detect signal interference before it occurs. If symptoms are detected you should refrain from use of the vehicle and the affected Integrated Brake (IB) system component will be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 21,244 vehicles
Checking the Seat Mechanism of the Left Front Seat U11
On affected vehicles the seat mechanism of the front left seat may not have been manufactured within accordance to specifications It is possible that an incorrectly sized rivet was used during production. As a result the mechanism may fail in the event of an accident.
Fix: On affected vehicles the front left seat mechanism will be checked and if necessary replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 1 vehicles
Replacing the Backrest Frame of the Front Left Seat
On affected vehicles the welding of the recliner adjustment on the backrest of the left front seat may not have been performed to specification potentially resulting in insufficient locking of the backrest.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the Left front seat backrest will be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 6 vehicles
Replace VANOS bolts N51 N52 N55
On affected vehicles overtime the aluminium screws can loosen or break on the adjustable variable camshaft timing (VANOS) units potentially resulting in engine emergency mode being activated.
Fix: On affected vehicles the eight aluminium screws will be replaced if evidence of faulty screws is found then the VANOS adjustment unit will also be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 1 vehicles
Integrated Braking System
On affected vehicles an unexpected loss of hydraulic brake assistance may occur and may result in a different pedal behaviour under specific conditions an extended braking distance may be experienced and ABS/Stability control may be impaired
Fix: On the affected vehicles the Integrated Brake System will be replaced
Recalled models: X1 · 8,202 vehicles
On some diesel vehicles glycol leakage from the EGR-Cooler may occur. In very rare cases this could lead to the melting of the Intake manifold and in very rare cases result in a possible fire.
On some diesel vehicles glycol leakage from the EGR-Cooler may occur. In very rare cases this could lead to the melting of the Intake manifold and in very rare cases result in a possible fire.
Fix: Initial warning letter with advice to be sent with follow up Letter to call in vehicles for rectification work to be carried out on the affected vehicles once parts are available. The EGR cooler will be replaced with an optimised component.
Recalled models: X1 · 4,923 vehicles
In rare cases the lower section of the outer seat belts may have been trapped behind the lower part of the C-pillar interior trim panels.
In rare cases the lower section of the outer seat belts may have been trapped behind the lower part of the C-pillar interior trim panels.
Fix: Check the fitment of the rear seat belts and if applicable release any trapped components.
Recalled models: X1 · 1,963 vehicles
A possible degradation of the propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
A possible degradation of airbag propellant tablets could lead to an over-aggressive combustion in the event the airbag is activated which may cause the inflator body to rupture.
Fix: On affected vehicles the drivers airbag module will be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 4 vehicles
One or both of the front panoramic sunroof drain tubes may be cracked this could result in water entering the interior of the vehicle. The wiring harness and body control unit (BCP) can be exposed to water and damaged.
One or both of the front panoramic sunroof drain tubes may be cracked this could result in water entering the interior of the vehicle. The wiring harness and body control unit (BCP) can be exposed to water and damaged. If water enters the BCP control unit the electrical function could be impaired.
Fix: On the affected vehicles both front drain tubes will be checked and if required the tubes repaired.
Recalled models: X1 · 77 vehicles
The high-pressure fuel rail may not have been produced according to specifications
The high-pressure fuel rail may not have been produced according to specifications.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel rail.
Recalled models: X1 · 1 vehicles
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold
Undetected EGR System leaks may cause thermal activity in the intake manifold.
Fix: The engine management control unit (DDE) will be programmed with improved software incorporating the latest OBD functionality.
Recalled models: X1 · 322,745 vehicles
The exhaust gas recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler may leak over time and cause thermal incident.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the EGR cooler module will be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 319,399 vehicles
The micro gas generator within the front seatbelt's retractor may have been damaged
The micro gas generator within the front seatbelt�s retractor may have been damaged and may not act according to the specification in the event of an accident.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the front seatbelts will be checked and replaced if they are found to have been damaged
Recalled models: X1 · 2,018 vehicles
The material quality of the screws used for seat belts and rear seats may not be to specifications.
The material quality of seat and seatbelt screws may not be according to specification.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the screws will be replaced in specific locations on the seat belts or rear seats.
Recalled models: X1 · 38 vehicles
Remaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit
A possibility of impurities contained in the HV batteries may cause short circuit.
Fix: Testing of battery charge cycles and replacement of the HV cells where necessary.
Recalled models: X1 · 2,665 vehicles
Remaining particles in the cells of the high voltage battery can cause a short circuit
In very rare cases welding beads were not always completely removed in the cleaning process during battery production.
Fix: Test and replace the High Voltage batteries if affected.
Recalled models: X1 · 871 vehicles
The exhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak over time
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Module cooler could leak over time
Fix: The EGR cooler will be inspected on the affected vehicles and replaced if evidence of leaking is found.
Recalled models: X1 · 71,128 vehicles
The air bag control unit may have been equipped with a defective sensor for the rollover detection
The air bag control unit may have been equipped with a defective sensor for the rollover detection.
Fix: The Airbag control unit (ACSM4i) will be replaced on the affected vehicles.
Recalled models: X1 · 189 vehicles
The steering gear tie rod may not have been assembled with the required spherical washer
The steering gear tie rod may not have been assembled with a required spherical washer
Fix: Both steering gear tie rods will be checked and if affected tie rod/s and accompanying swivel bearing/s will be replaced
Recalled models: X1 · 19 vehicles
Rear lights may be fixed with incorrect securing nuts
The rear lights of affected vehicles might be fixed with securing nuts which may not have been produced to supplier specifications.
Fix: The rear lights will be checked and if necessary replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 3,722 vehicles
Exhaust gas recirculation module cooler could leak
The EGR cooler may leakpresenting a fire risk
Fix: A visual inspection of the EGR cooler to check for leaks and excessive build-up of deposits. The EGR cooler will be replaced on all affected vehicles
Recalled models: X1 · 225,449 vehicles
Software fault with crankshaft sensor
The affected vehicles may be equipped with a crankshaft sensor with a software fault. The crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the crankshaft transmitter due to an improper firmware level. The firmware does not compensate sufficiently the temperature gradients and the magnetic field strength of the sensor electronic. If the crankshaft sensor cannot process the signal values from the transmitter the Digital Diesel Electronic (DDE) will notice that and change to the emergency operation mode. The emergency mode will be displayed by the check control message �engine malfunction�. The driver may notice a rough running engine and a reduced driving power (70%). However an engine stalling during driving conditions cannot be excluded.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the crankshaft sensor will be replaced with a new version.
Recalled models: X1 · 4,025 vehicles
Front axle swivel bearings may not have been produced to specification
Due to a fault in the supplier production process the swivel bearings on the front axle of the affected vehicles may not have been produced to specification. Due to an insufficient heat treatment the fracture strain has been reduced. The affected swivel bearings could break causing loss of wheel guidance during driving.
Fix: On the affected vehicles both swivel bearings will be checked and if necessary replaced with a part produced to specification.
Recalled models: X1 · 100 vehicles
Plug in contact cable may malfunction
The positive battery cable to the front distribution box behind the glove box can become damaged by vibrations and frictional corrosion. This may cause a loss of electrical connection to the distributions box. Symptoms include being unable to gain entry or start the car but the most common are a flickering instrument panel or uneven engine performance. However if the electrical connection is completely lost this will also affect the operation of the vehicles lighting systems; e.g. sidelights or hazard warning lamps.
Fix: On affected vehicles carry out a suitable repair to the battery cable positive cable.
Recalled models: X1 · 311,848 vehicles
Front passenger airbag maynot deploy correctly
It is possible a recess on the inside of the instrument panel was not machined correctly. The recess is the predetermined break point of the instrument panel when the front passenger airbag is activated. If the milling has not been carried out correctly the proper deployment of the front passenger airbag cannot be ensured.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the milling of the predetermined break point. Where necessary the instrument panel will be replaced.
Recalled models: X1 · 7,948 vehicles
Driveshaft universal joint may break
Due to insufficient strength the front universal joint in the rear front universal joint of the rear prop shaft may fail.
Fix: On affected vehicle replace the universal joint with a modified version
Recalled models: X1 · 10,849 vehicles
Plug in contact cable may malfunction
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be made aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles with petrol engines and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Recalled models: X1 · 36,410 vehicles
Airbag may not deploy
A recess on the inside of the fascia panel may not have been correctly machined . This recess affects the deployment of the front passenger's air bag and it may not deploy as intended.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace fascia panel.
Recalled models: X1 · 2 vehicles
Airbags may not deploy
The igniter for the certain airbag modules may not have been correctly manufactured which may affect air bag deployment in the event of a collision.
Fix: Where necessary replace affected airbag modules.
Recalled models: X1 · 668 vehicles
Engine emergency mode may be activated during driving
The screws retaining the variable camshaft timing (VANOS) housing may loosen and under certain circumstances the heads may break off. This can lead to the VANOS leaking oil internally and adversely affect the valve timing adjustment. If found to deviating from targeted data the engine emergency mode will be activated. This will be indicated by a distinct change in engine running. The orange engine management warning lamp and a check message; On vehicles with N51/N52 engines this will appear at ignition recycle on N55 engine it will display immediately.
Fix: Repalce bolted connection of the VANOS adjustment unit
Recalled models: X1 · 2,967 vehicles
Loss of drive
It is possible that over a period of time the bolt securing the clutch cover/pressure plate may become loose. The drive should be warned of this by the behaviour of the clutch noise from it or inability to select gears. Under certain conditions complete loss of drive could occur which could place the driver and occupant of the vehicle in a prone position.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the clutch bolts.
Recalled models: X1 · 4 vehicles
Engine may cut out
It is possible that the connection between the B+ cable and the Power Distribution Box can become damaged by wear and heat which is caused by high current flow and high contact resistance. Normally this will result in a non-start situation after parking the vehicle. However it is possible that this could in extreme cases occur whilst the vehicle is in motion. The driver should be make aware of the issue by flickering of the instrument cluster (dash) or an engine mis-fire; but if the driver does not then the engine could cut-out without warning.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the cable/connection with a more robust item.
Recalled models: X1 · 36 vehicles
Eps may not perform as specified
Due to a component in the integrated control module not being to specification it is possible power steering assistance may fail. If this happens the EPS warning lamp will illuminate and a check control message will appear on the dashboard display. Directional control will be maintained albeit with additional driver input.
Fix: Recall vehicles likely to be affected to replace the steering box.
Recalled models: X1 · 701 vehicles
Checking a BMW X1 before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.