2017 BMW X1 Complaints

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 05/31/2026

I am reporting a recurring safety warning on my 2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i. The vehicle repeatedly displays the message “Secure vehicle against rolling” on the dashboard even though the gear selector indicates that the vehicle is in Park. A diagnostic scan with BlueDriver also recorded BMW fault code 420106 – “Shift Lock Solenoid: Unlock stuck.” The warning has returned multiple times and appears to indicate a problem with the vehicle’s Park/shift-lock or parking-lock recognition system. Because this warning concerns the possibility of the vehicle rolling while parked, I consider it a potential safety issue. Until the problem is diagnosed and repaired, I have been using the electronic parking brake every time I park as an additional precaution. The vehicle otherwise recognizes the Park position and has remained drivable, but the warning continues to reappear. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether this issue is occurring in other BMW X1 vehicles and whether it may involve a defect in the gear-selector, shift-lock, parking-lock, or related sensing system. Vehicle: 2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ENGINE — Filed 07/23/2026

The BMX1 overheated while parked and on with no warning of any levels being low or any obvious issues for it to overheat. I just saw the starter and overheated recall which led me to check my suv.

SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE — Filed 03/20/2026

What You’re Noticing (and Why It Matters) 1. Engine Mounts Wearing Out Engine mounts can wear over time, but premature failure (early loosening, vibration, clunking) can point to: Defective parts Poor design for that model year This is a common complaint in some BMW models, especially as mileage increases. 2. Brake System & Sensor Issues Warning lights staying on even after replacing sensors can mean: Faulty wiring or control module (not just the sensor itself) Ongoing system miscommunication BMW braking systems rely heavily on electronics, so one issue can trigger repeated alerts. 3. Oil Gasket / Housing Leaks You mentioned oil leaking from a plastic housing—this is important. BMW engines (including the X1) often use: Plastic oil filter housings Plastic cooling components These are known to: Crack from heat over time Cause oil leaks and coolant loss This isn’t always clearly explained in sales descriptions. 4. Plastic Engine Components Many modern engines use plastic parts for: Weight reduction Fuel efficiency But downside: More prone to cracking, warping, or leaking Especially under high heat conditions ️ Should There Be a Recall? For something to become a recall through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it must: Be a widespread defect Pose a safety risk (not just wear and tear) Right now: Some of these issues (like oil leaks or mounts) are often treated as maintenance or design concerns, not recalls Brake system failures could qualify if they affect stopping safety—but only if widely reported and proven defective

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 10/01/2025

Secure vehicle against rolling error

WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE — Filed 06/19/2024

I am writing to formally file a report regarding the severe mechanical damage to the vehicle I purchased on June 14th, 2024, identified as A 2017 BMW- X1 sDrive28i, with VIN NUMBER [XXX] . It has come to my attention that this damage was not disclosed at the time of purchase, which constitutes a violation of consumer protection laws. As a consumer, I have the right to receive truthful and accurate information about the products I purchase. The failure to disclose significant mechanical issues is a violation of the Federal Trade Commission's regulations and applicable state consumer protection laws, including the prohibition against deceptive acts and practices. This vehicle poses as a safety risk to myself, and other's. Specifically, I have experienced the following issues with the vehicle: 1. Leaking oil 2. Loud engine. 3. Overheating. 4. Suspension issues. 5. Control arm alignment. 6. Shock and strut assembly. 7. Wheel alignment. 8. Turbocharger alignment 9. Engine assembly. I've encountered all of these issues since the sale of the vehicle in 2024. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 10/04/2025

Every time I get in the vehicle or turn the vehicle off I get a message "Secure vehicle against rolling contact service specialist". Even if I press the emergency brake it still continues, this appears to be a known problem with the BMW X1 and not sure if it will cause my car to roll away.

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN — Filed 07/29/2025

My car suddenly displayed a drivetrain malfunction error, and I cannot identify the reason because the car was driving normally in a residential area.

ENGINE — Filed 12/17/2024

PRESSURE TESTED COOLING SYSTEM, FOUND OIL FILTER HOUSING TO BE LEAKING COOLANT, REPLACE OIL FILTER HOUSING WITH BOTH SETS OF GASKETS

ENGINE — Filed 11/12/2024

Engine motor mounts failed

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN — Filed 01/30/2024

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X1. The contact received a notification letter of BMW Campaign Number: SIB 01 02 24(Evap System Purge(Vent) Valve Extended Limited Warranty). The contact stated that while reversing, the vehicle hesitated and vibrated while the engine revved. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that upon shifting to drive(D), the vehicle responded as intended. The vehicle was taken to a collision center, where an unknown diagnosis was made, and an unknown repair was performed; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

ENGINE — Filed 12/29/2023

1. Failed Engine, coolant, temperature sensor; missing COOLANT LEVEL SENSOR. Avail for inspection. 2. My car failed multiple occasions to show a warning light that almost got me and others hurt or cause a catastrophic incident on freeway. 3. The issues confirmed after months of several complaints, inspected per BMWUSA at Santa Monica BMW, I was provided December 5, 2024 print out of "MISSING COOLANT LEVEL SENSOR, failed temp sensor warning lights, ODD. " 4. No. 5. There were NO WARNING lamps, messages. I have always received warning messages: OIL level low, WIPER fluid low, BATTERY low, KEY battery low, TIRES low inflate, BULB malfunction. The first issue revealed 2021 routine oil filter service. BMW technician at The Haus, alerted me "urgent, water pump leaking, low coolant, go back to Sherman Oaks BMW where I got the car, pump under warranty!" I was confused, why no warning light? Sherman Oaks replaced water pump, coolant hoses under warranty. 2022, shocked to learn water pump coolant leaking during another routine oil service. No warning lights! SHERMAN OAKS tried to charge me 3200.00. BMWUSA replaced 2nd pump under warranty. December 2023, cold weather, my heater stopped working, no warning light. Next day MY ENGINE/CAR DIED ON FREEWAY. Terrified, no warnings on dash. Cars speeding past me as I sat trying to start car. Heavy car Finally accelerated with new roaring engine sound, no warning light. Drove slowly off freeway. Bob Smith BMW "turn engine off!!" TAKE BACK TO SHERMAN OAKS BMW. January 2024, BMWUSA ( Madison ) instructed via email Sherman Oaks BMW to inspect, why are there no warning lights??? They refused to put in writing. I was told check my coolant monthly. Replaced oil/coolant hose. November 2024, BMWUSA instructed Santa Monica BMW, inspect, why are there no warning lights? I finally received a print out, " No Coolant Level Sensor," "failed temp sensor." "bring in monthly," and "I wouldn't put a child in your car."

AIR BAGS — Filed 06/29/2025

On [XXX] [XXX] was operating her 2017 BMW X1 traveling northbound on [XXX]. While driving in the middle lane, her vehicle was struck on the right side. The point of impact was the right front passenger side, extending toward the rear passenger area. The force of the collision was significant enough to eject the right front passenger tire from the vehicle. Despite the severity of the impact, the right front passenger airbag failed to deploy. As a result of the collision and the car’s failure to properly respond to the crash, [XXX] sustained injuries that required hospitalization. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/29/2025

My 2017 BMW X1 has a faulty gear selector torsion spring that triggers a “secure vehicle against rolling” warning. This is a known issue that MINI has acknowledged and extended warranty coverage for, despite using the same part. Many BMW owners are experiencing the same failure, which could lead to a rollaway risk if not addressed. BMW should issue a recall or extend coverage for affected vehicles.

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/25/2025

X1 gear shifter is causing a Transmission waring - and comment to secure vehicle with parking brake when stopped. Consult Service center. I have spoken with BMW mechanic and other mechanic who have stated that it is common issue with X1 and Mini's that use same shifter. A spring breaks off in the shifter. Mini - issued a large warranty extension but it appears BMW has not.

ENGINE — Filed 04/24/2025

The car overheated seemingly out of nowhere. About 8:25 AM on the date of the incident I noticed my heat wasn't blowing hot. I figured I just didn't let the car warm up enough. I began to drive home after work at approximately 4:00pm and the warning yellow light came on stating "drive moderately, at risk of overheating). I slowed down and drove very gently. The warning light went away. A few minutes later it came back on so I slowed down again. I was on back roads and not driving fast anyway. I then turned to go home and at the beginning of a bridge the light turned from yellow to red and said pull over. I couldn't pull over on a bridge but pulled off as soon as I was able, about three minutes later. I coasted into the nearest parking lot and had the car towed to the dealership. Their determination was it was leaking coolant from the oil filter housing area. They removed the intake manifold and repaired the car. I'm not sure exactly what was done. I want to know if the overheating was due to the ongoing recall of the coolant systems in the BMW. If so, I want to know why my car wasn't included in the recall and why a remedy wasn't performed. Receipt of the estimate was April 26, 2025

POWER TRAIN — Filed 05/01/2025

The warning light “Secure vehicle against rolling” appears when the gear is shifted into park. An additional message reads: “Transmission: Secure vehicle with parking brake when stopped. Consult service center.” It has been verified that the gear is indeed mechanically in the park position. Upon further investigation, I discovered numerous BMW X1 owners reporting this same issue on various online forums. The common cause appears to be a broken spring inside the gear shifter. This spring normally activates a switch that notifies the vehicle's electrical system that it’s in park. When the spring fails, the system does not register this correctly, triggering the warning. After contacting BMW North America customer service, I was directed to visit an authorized service center. The estimated repair cost is around $3,000 to replace the gear shifter—despite the fact that this problem matches dozens of other complaints already submitted to the NHTSA. I'm filing this report to contribute to the growing number of similar complaints from BMW X1 owners in hopes that the issue will be formally acknowledged and addressed.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 04/03/2023

Car experiences a very rough idle at start and often stalls after being placed in gear. This can happen after car starts moving. I drive this car and am experiencing regular stalls after taking off.

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 03/17/2025

"Secure vehicle against rolling" warning light comes on when vehicle's gear is shifted into park. Additional information displayed states, "Transmission: Secure vehicle with parking brake when stopped. Consult service center." Confirmed vehicle's gear is mechanically shifted into park. Researched issue, and found many BMW X1 owners posting to various online forums stating root cause is due to a broken spring in the gear shifter that is supposed to toggle a switch informing the vehicle's electrical system that the vehicle is shifted into park. Hence the warning message. My vehicle is currently mechanically sound with no issues. My fear is that I have no way of knowing when a real issue does occur because the warning message is constantly displayed. I am submitting this complaint to add to the 100+ other NHTSA complaints that have already been filed for this issue by other BMW X1 owners with the hope that action will be taken to address it.

STRUCTURE — Filed 09/13/2023

This week, again, the rear hatch came down on me as I was loading groceries and while I tried to fend it off, giving me a bruise on my lower arm The rear hatch door randomly closes while I am loading/unloading the rear of the X1. In the past I thought it might be the key fob being bumped in a purse or pocket, but NO. It happens randomly. It beeps its warning thank goodness, but has put me, my grandchildren, and others helping load at risk several times since we purchased this car in 2017. I thought this might be peculiar to my car alone, but now see others with the same complaint! I will not let my grandchildren stand around the back of the car when loading. BMW will be sued by someone, bet on it, if it hasn't already happened, if any child or animal is injured due to this problem. The force was strong enough to bump and bruise an adult, let alone a child! My dealer listened to my complaint, but offers no solution...I have no paperwork to this effect. This is a safety and public relations nightmare for BMW that it has not been addressed already...

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 03/05/2023

I recently experienced Sudden Unintended Acceleration while driving my BMW X1. While turning the vehicle to park in a spot, the vehicle suddenly took off and collided with a pillar. There were four separate incidents in my town alone (Charlottesville, VA) in recent months where a BMW SUV experienced this problem. While I cannot completely rule out pedal misapplication, I would like to note that I do not think this is the case and this has not happened to me in 15 years of driving. I have recently had the battery and the break pads replaced. Please make a note of this problem and if you see a pattern, please investigate. What is the probability that all four building collisions in a parking lot in a small town involve a BMW SUV?

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 09/21/2022

Three months after purchasing my 2017 BMW X1, the back hatch without warrant inadvertently starting closing, at one time almost closing on my just about 3 year old granddaughter. there was no movement and the key was placing remotely on a table. Soon after, while opened, it came down on my sisters hand. Then on Sept. 21, while removing groceries from the trunk, it started beeping and rapidly came down on my head and neck while I tried to hit the open button, causing a concussion and swelling on my neck. I have had to go on short term disability from work to deal with the long term effects of the concussion. I informed BMW North America immediately, had them do an inspection. Although the report was sent to me stating SIB states to replace Control Unit, Smart Opener for closing concern, BMW takes no responsibility and refused to pay to replace the unit.

AIR BAGS — Filed 06/16/2022

The contact owns a 2017 BMW X1. The contact stated his wife was driving at 35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed to slow the vehicle down however her purse got entrapped near the brake pedal and accelerator pedal causing her to crash into the vehicle in front who was stopped. The air bags failed to deploy and the seat belt failed to retract. The contacts wife collided with the steering wheel due to the impact. The contact's wife suffered chest injuries where a doctor later confirmed she had a cracked sternum. A police report was filed, and the vehicle was towed to a Collison Center. The dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,000.

STRUCTURE — Filed 01/08/2019

THE TRUNK STARTS CLOSING BY ITSELF, 100S OF EXAMPLES ON THE INTERNET FOR THIS HAPPENING.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE — Filed 01/01/2019

THE REAR TRUNK OF THE CAR STARTS CLOSING BY ITSELF. I INJURED MY HAND DUE TO SUCH SUDDEN CLOSURE. THIS PROBLEM IS ALL OVER THE INTERNET WITH THOUSANDS OF CUSTOMERS HITTING IT AND BMW IS NOT ACKNOWLEDGING OR FIXING THE ISSUE.

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 04/02/2018

THE TAILGATE CONSISTENTLY CLOSES ON ITS OWN. WITHOUT MY FOOT EVEN BEING NEAR THE SENSOR THAT IS LOCATED UNDER THE BACKEND. T HAS SLAMMED ME IN A BACK A FEW TIMES WHEN I'VE HAD MY HEADPHONES IN AND DID NOT HEAR THE BEEPING. I WON'T EVEN LET MY KNEES GET ANYTHING OUT OF IT. THE DEALERSHIP IN FL HAS ALLEGEDLY FIXED IT BUT CONTINUES TO DO IT. IT DID IT ON THE DEALERSHIP AS WELL. I MOVED IN AND CONTINUE TO DO IT TOOK IT TO A DEALERSHIP HERE IN PENNSYLVANIA AND THEY SAY NOTHING IS WRONG. WHEN IT HIT YOU IN THE BACK IT HURTS REALLY BAD.