BMW X1 Lemon Law: Problems, Complaints, & Recalls

The BMW X1 is a luxury crossover that debuted in 2009. Many consumers rave about this model. However, some consumers have reported BMW X1 problems. 

At Robison Lemon Law Group LLC, we help car owners who purchase defective vehicles. If you bought a BMW X1 that continues to have problems, we may be able to help you file a lemon law claim. For more information, please reach out to us. 

What Safety Issues Affect the X1?

There have been at least 19 BMW X1 safety recalls reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These recalls are related to various safety issues, including:

Defective Seat Belts

BMW issued a recall in April 2023 based on pinched seat belts that did not function properly. The automaker noted that the interior trim panel may have pinched the seat belts during X1 assembly. Since the seat belts were faulty, they increased the risk of injury during a crash. 

Defective Airbags

In February 2023, BMW recalled some of its X1 vehicles due to airbag problems. The automaker indicated that the front driver’s airbag may have been manufactured improperly. This defect can cause the airbag to deploy incorrectly. 

Defective Tail Lights 

BMW once recalled X1 models due to faulty tail light hardware. The automaker pointed out that this hardware may have been contaminated, which could cause tail light attachment brackets and housing to crack. If this happened, an X1’s tail lights could loosen or fall off the vehicle. 

The team at Robison Lemon Law Group LLC understands X1 safety issues. Our law firm is committed to helping X1 owners get compensation if they need to file a lemon law claim based on a safety problem. For more information, please get in touch with us.  

What Are the Problem Areas with the BMW X1?

Problems areas that have been reported with the BMW X1 include:

Timing Chain 

Some BMW X1 models have an N20 turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that is prone to timing chain failures. The engine’s timing chain has a plastic chain guide that can wear out quickly. It may even break apart. 

Engine Seals and Gaskets

BMW X1 engine problems extend beyond the timing chain. The N20 and N55 engines used in the first-generation BMW X1 tend to leak. These engine leaks can come from defective valve covers, oil filter housing, and front and rear main seals. 

Cooling Parts

The BMW X1’s cooling system contains parts that are made out of plastic. These parts are susceptible to wear and tear. Over time, they can become brittle, to the point where they can cause the electric water pump to fail, which leads to overheating. 

Alternator

The alternator charges a car’s battery and powers the vehicle’s electrical system. Some X1 owners have reported electrical faults due to a faulty alternator. These faults can cause the vehicle’s headlights to dim, engine hesitation, and other safety issues. 

Muffler and Wheel Housing

The X1’s muffler may be susceptible to excessive rust. Some X1 owners have reported rust appearing around the muffler as early as one year after their purchase. In addition, X1 owners have reported rust accumulating on their vehicles’ wheel housing in as little as 8,000 miles.   

If you are dealing with a faulty X1, do not wait to report the issue. You can notify BMW about any problems you notice, and the manufacturer should address them immediately. Also, you can view BMW safety and emission recalls and get any X1 recall repairs you need for free. 

Is the X1 a Reliable BMW SUV?

The 2023 BMW X1 received a score of 86 out of 100 from J.D. Power and Associates in terms of quality and reliability. This score is considered “great.” Also, J.D. Power noted that the 2023 X1 ranked first overall among small premium SUVs. 

Generally, X1 models have received positive ratings in terms of quality and reliability from J.D. Power. Dating back to 2013, J.D. Power’s lowest score for the X1 based on quality and reliability came in 2020. At this time, the X1 scored a 71 for quality and reliability, which is considered “average.” 

If you are concerned about BMW X1 problems, it pays to perform plenty of research. This allows you to weigh the pros and cons of the X1 versus other SUVs. Then, you can make an informed decision about whether an X1 is exactly what you want. 

Tips to Help You Deal with BMW X1 Problems

At the first sign of an X1 problem, report the issue to the manufacturer. You can then get help to resolve the problem before it escalates. If the manufacturer refuses to address the issue, you can pursue legal options. 

You can take advantage of the lemon law in your state if you have recurring X1 issues. For example, if you report X1 turbo failure to the manufacturer but the problem is not resolved after multiple repair attempts, you may be able to file a lemon law claim. With help from a lemon law attorney, you can request compensation based on your vehicle defect. 

Robison Lemon Law Group LLC has a proven track record in lemon law cases. Our team can review your case and help you decide if it is in your best interests to file a claim. To get started, please contact us today.