2013-2023 BMW X1 Problems: 8 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2013-2023 model years · 980+ owner reports · Updated May 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 980+ owner reports, the 2013-2023 BMW X1 has 8 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure ($2,000-$4,000 repair) and N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1 ($2,500-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure with 420 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $300 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 8 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1

40K-80K

Front Suspension Bushing & Control Arm Wear - F48 X1

50K-80K

N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure

60K-100K

Transfer Case Failure - xDrive Models E84/F48 X1

60K-100K

Coolant Leaks - Water Pump & Thermostat - F48 X1

60K-100K

Oil Leaks - Valve Cover & Oil Filter Housing - F48 X1

60K-100K

025K50K75K100K mi

Community Reported

420 owners

On the 2013-2015 BMW X1 N20, the N20 turbocharged four-cylinder in E84 X1 models is prone to premature timing chain guide wear and failure. Plastic chain guides become brittle and can break, causing chain slack, jumped timing, and potential catastrophic engine damage. Most failures occur between 60,000-100,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore, Buick LaCrosse

Common Symptoms

Rattling or whining noise from front of engine on cold start
Check Engine light with timing-related codes
Rough idle or misfires
Reduced engine power
Engine stalling at idle
Metal shavings in oil during oil change

How to Fix

Replace timing chain, guides, tensioner, and both sprockets as a complete kit. The repair requires removing the front of the engine and is labor-intensive. Updated guide materials are available. Preventive replacement at 80,000 miles is recommended for high-mileage N20 engines.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 420+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeUse OEM or Genuine BMW timing chain kit for N20 engines (Genuine BMW #11318648732)
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Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $4,000

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420+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence420 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2013-2015 BMW X1, the N20 2.0L turbocharged engine in 2013-2015 X1 models suffers from premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically between 40,000-80,000 miles. The single-row timing chain design is inadequate for the engine's power output and torque. Chain stretch causes timing to jump, leading to rough running, poor performance, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain breaks. BMW issued a class action settlement covering 8 years/100,000 miles. This is identical to the N20 timing chain issue in 328i, 428i, and other N20-powered models.

This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore, Buick LaCrosse

Common Symptoms

Rattling noise from engine on cold start (first 5 seconds)
Check engine light with timing correlation codes (P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019)
Rough idle or misfires
Loss of power or hesitation on acceleration
Engine won't start after chain failure

How to Fix

Complete timing chain kit replacement including chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets. Must be performed by experienced BMW technician. Preventive replacement recommended at 60,000-80,000 miles. BMW extended warranty to 8 years/100,000 miles under class action settlement. Upgraded reinforced chain kit available from aftermarket suppliers. Labor is 8-12 hours due to tight engine bay in X1.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeBMW OEM Timing Chain Kit (11318648732KT) - complete replacement with all components (IWIS/Genuine BMW #11318648732KT2)
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UpgradeFCP Euro lifetime warranty timing chain kit - popular choice for preventive replacement (FCP Euro Lifetime Warranty Timing Chain Kit)
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TipCheck if your VIN is covered under class action settlement - BMW will cover costs up to 100k miles
NoteDo NOT ignore chain rattle - complete failure will cause catastrophic engine damage ($15k+)

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,500

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

350 owners

On the 2013-2022 BMW X1, the oil filter housing gasket on X1 models (both N20 and B48 engines) is a common failure point. The gasket hardens and shrinks over time due to heat cycling, causing oil to leak onto the serpentine belt and exhaust components. This can create burning oil smell and potential fire risk.

This issue also affects: BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 4 Series

Common Symptoms

Burning oil smell especially after highway driving
Oil dripping onto serpentine belt causing squealing
Oil puddle under passenger side of engine
Low oil level warnings
Visible oil residue around oil filter housing
Smoke from engine bay

How to Fix

Replace the oil filter housing gasket and clean all affected surfaces. Also inspect and replace the oil cooler gasket if present. Use only OEM-quality gaskets as aftermarket gaskets tend to fail prematurely. Typical repair takes 2-3 hours.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 350+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeOEM Victor Reinz oil filter housing gasket set (Victor Reinz #11428637821)
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Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

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350+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence350 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2016-2023 BMW X1 B-series, the F48 X1 commonly develops coolant leaks from the electric water pump and thermostat housing. The electric water pump (auxiliary pump) is a wear item that typically fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The thermostat housing develops cracks or seal failures, causing coolant leaks. Symptoms include coolant loss, low coolant warnings, and visible leaks. The electric water pump is critical for preventing overheating when the engine is off or during cold starts. This is a common issue across many BMW models with B-series engines.

This issue also affects: Audi A4 allroad, Audi Q5, Audi Q7

Common Symptoms

Low coolant warning on dashboard
Visible coolant leak under vehicle
Overheating warning or temperature gauge rising
Sweet smell (coolant) from engine bay
White smoke from exhaust (severe leak)
Heater not working properly

How to Fix

Replace failed water pump or thermostat housing. Electric water pump replacement is 2-3 hours labor. Thermostat housing is 1-2 hours. Always use BMW-approved coolant (blue or orange, do not mix). Properly bleed cooling system after repair to prevent air pockets. Inspect all coolant hoses during repair and replace if cracked. Preventive replacement of water pump at 80,000 miles recommended.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeContinental/VDO electric water pump for B48 engine (11518678905, $160-350) - OEM supplier, more reliable than cheap aftermarket pumps. (Continental/VDO #11518678905)
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UpgradeGenuine BMW thermostat housing assembly for B48 engine (11537644811, $150-250) - replace when doing water pump as labor overlaps significantly. (Genuine BMW #11537644811)
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NoteDo NOT drive with overheating warning - can warp cylinder head and require $5k+ repair
TipCheck coolant level monthly - early leak detection prevents overheating damage

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2016-2023 BMW X1, the F48 X1 (2016-2023) with B46/B48 engines commonly develops oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket. The plastic valve cover warps from heat cycles, causing the gasket to fail and leak oil onto the exhaust manifold. The oil filter housing (integrated into the block) also develops leaks from its gasket. These are wear items that typically fail between 60,000-100,000 miles. Oil drips onto hot exhaust components, causing burning oil smell but rarely causing major issues if addressed promptly.

This issue also affects: BMW 5 Series, BMW X2, Cadillac Escalade

Common Symptoms

Burning oil smell, especially after driving
Visible oil on valve cover or around oil filter housing
Low oil level warning (slow leak)
Oil residue on engine bay components
Smoke from engine bay when engine is hot

How to Fix

Replace valve cover gasket and/or oil filter housing gasket as needed. Valve cover replacement is 2-3 hours labor. Oil filter housing gasket is 1-2 hours. Both are routine maintenance items on B-series engines. Use OEM gaskets for best longevity. Clean oil residue from engine bay after repair. Monitor oil level regularly to catch leaks early.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeGenuine BMW N20 valve cover with integrated PCV (11127588412, $200-350) - complete assembly replacement is more reliable than gasket-only repair on N20 engines. (Genuine BMW #11127588412)
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UpgradeElring oil filter housing gasket (11428637821) - OEM supplier quality at fraction of BMW-branded price. Includes all seals needed. (Elring #11428637821)
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TipFix oil leaks promptly - oil on exhaust can cause fires in rare cases
TipWhen replacing valve cover, also check PCV valve and replace if needed

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

210 owners

On the 2013-2022 BMW X1, the xDrive transfer case actuator motor in X1 models can fail, causing loss of all-wheel drive functionality. The electric motor that engages the front axle wears out or its internal gears strip. Failure is often sudden and accompanied by drivetrain warning messages.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Acura CL, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Drivetrain malfunction warning on dashboard
4x4 warning light illuminated
Loss of power to front wheels
Grinding or clicking noise from under vehicle
Vehicle feels unstable in slippery conditions
Reduced traction in snow or rain

How to Fix

Replace the transfer case actuator motor (also called the servo motor). The transfer case itself usually does not need replacement. Ensure the transfer case fluid is changed at the same time. Some owners report success with rebuilt actuators at lower cost.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 210+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeOEM transfer case actuator motor for BMW xDrive (Genuine BMW #27107643751)
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Typical repair cost:$800 - $1,800

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210+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence210 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2013-2023 BMW X1, bMW xDrive (AWD) X1 models use an electronically-controlled transfer case that commonly fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The transfer case contains an actuator motor and clutch pack that wear out from normal use. Symptoms include grinding noises, AWD malfunction warnings, and the vehicle being stuck in FWD mode. The actuator motor is a common failure point and can be replaced separately, but complete transfer case failure requires full replacement. This issue affects all xDrive X1 models (both E84 and F48 generations).

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Acura CL, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Grinding or whining noise from under vehicle
AWD malfunction warning on dashboard
Transfer case failsafe program message
Vehicle stuck in front-wheel drive only
Vibration during acceleration
Fluid leak from transfer case area

How to Fix

Diagnose specific failure point. Transfer case actuator motor can be replaced separately ($800-1,200) if caught early. Complete transfer case replacement required for internal failures ($2,500-4,000). Regular transfer case fluid changes every 50,000 miles may extend life. Some owners install aftermarket upgraded actuator motors for better durability. Common wear item on high-mileage xDrive models.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeBMW OEM transfer case actuator motor - most common failure, cheaper than full transfer case (FCP Euro Transfer Case Actuator Repair Kit)
View on Amazon
TipChange transfer case fluid every 50k miles - BMW says "lifetime" but preventive changes help
NoteDon't drive with transfer case warnings - can damage transmission and differential

Typical repair cost:$800 - $4,000

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2016-2023 BMW X1, the F48 X1 front suspension control arm bushings wear out prematurely, especially in areas with rough roads or potholes. The rubber bushings crack and tear, causing clunking noises over bumps and poor handling. Front lower control arms with integrated bushings are the most common failure. BMW uses rubber bushings that degrade over time and with exposure to road salt. Symptoms typically appear after 50,000-80,000 miles. This is a wear item and not uncommon for BMW suspension components.

Common Symptoms

Clunking or knocking noise over bumps
Loose or imprecise steering feel
Uneven tire wear
Vibration through steering wheel
Vehicle pulls to one side
Failed inspection due to worn bushings

How to Fix

Replace worn control arms or bushings. Most shops replace complete control arms (with integrated bushings) rather than pressing in new bushings alone. Alignment required after replacement. Inspect all suspension components while vehicle is lifted. Consider replacing both sides even if only one shows symptoms to avoid repeat labor costs. Use OEM or quality aftermarket parts (Lemforder, Meyle HD) for longevity.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeMeyle HD front suspension overhaul kit (3160500135/HD) - heavy-duty replacement with improved durability over OEM rubber bushings. Includes control arms and bushings. (Meyle HD #3160500135/HD)
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UpgradeGenuine BMW front strut mount (31336892617) - replace when doing control arm work as labor overlaps. Common wear item on F48 X1. (Genuine BMW #31336892617)
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TipReplace both sides at once - saves labor and prevents doing job twice
TipAlways get alignment after suspension work - prevents tire wear

Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,500

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW X1 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 980+ owner reports, the 2013-2023 BMW X1 has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure, N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1, Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the BMW X1 reliable?

The 2013-2023 BMW X1 has 8 known issues documented across 980+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure and N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common BMW X1 problems?

Repair costs for known BMW X1 issues range from $300 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure, typically costs $2,000-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year BMW X1 is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the BMW X1. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2013-2023 BMW X1 with 8 documented issues documented across 980+ owner reports.

What is the 2013-2015 BMW X1 N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure?

The N20 turbocharged four-cylinder in E84 X1 models is prone to premature timing chain guide wear and failure. Plastic chain guides become brittle and can break, causing chain slack, jumped timing, and potential catastrophic engine damage. Most failures occur between 60,000-100,0… Repairs typically run $2,000-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2013-2015 BMW X1 N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1?

The N20 2.0L turbocharged engine in 2013-2015 X1 models suffers from premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically between 40,000-80,000 miles. The single-row timing chain design is inadequate for the engine's power output and torque. Chain stretch causes timing to… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2013-2022 BMW X1 Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak?

The oil filter housing gasket on X1 models (both N20 and B48 engines) is a common failure point. The gasket hardens and shrinks over time due to heat cycling, causing oil to leak onto the serpentine belt and exhaust components. This can create burning oil smell and potential fire… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2022 BMW X1 Transfer Case Actuator Motor Failure?

The xDrive transfer case actuator motor in X1 models can fail, causing loss of all-wheel drive functionality. The electric motor that engages the front axle wears out or its internal gears strip. Failure is often sudden and accompanied by drivetrain warning messages. Repairs typically run $800-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2023 BMW X1 Transfer Case Failure - xDrive Models E84/F48 X1?

BMW xDrive (AWD) X1 models use an electronically-controlled transfer case that commonly fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The transfer case contains an actuator motor and clutch pack that wear out from normal use. Symptoms include grinding noises, AWD malfunction warnings, and… Repairs typically run $800-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Coolant Leaks - Water Pump & Thermostat - F48 X1?

The F48 X1 commonly develops coolant leaks from the electric water pump and thermostat housing. The electric water pump (auxiliary pump) is a wear item that typically fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The thermostat housing develops cracks or seal failures, causing coolant leak… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Front Suspension Bushing & Control Arm Wear - F48 X1?

The F48 X1 front suspension control arm bushings wear out prematurely, especially in areas with rough roads or potholes. The rubber bushings crack and tear, causing clunking noises over bumps and poor handling. Front lower control arms with integrated bushings are the most common… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: low.

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Oil Leaks - Valve Cover & Oil Filter Housing - F48 X1?

The F48 X1 (2016-2023) with B46/B48 engines commonly develops oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket. The plastic valve cover warps from heat cycles, causing the gasket to fail and leak oil onto the exhaust manifold. The oil filter housing (integrated… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: low.

All 8 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2013-2015 BMW X1: N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2013-2015 BMW X1: N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2013-2022 BMW X1: Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2016-2023 BMW X1: Coolant Leaks - Water Pump & Thermostat - F48 X1#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2016-2023 BMW X1: Oil Leaks - Valve Cover & Oil Filter Housing - F48 X1#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2013-2022 BMW X1: Transfer Case Actuator Motor Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2013-2023 BMW X1: Transfer Case Failure - xDrive Models E84/F48 X1#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2016-2023 BMW X1: Front Suspension Bushing & Control Arm Wear - F48 X1#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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Other BMW Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW X1 problems?

Is the BMW X1 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common BMW X1 problems?

What year BMW X1 is the most reliable?

What is the 2013-2015 BMW X1 N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure?

What is the 2013-2015 BMW X1 N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1?

What is the 2013-2022 BMW X1 Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak?

What is the 2013-2022 BMW X1 Transfer Case Actuator Motor Failure?

What is the 2013-2023 BMW X1 Transfer Case Failure - xDrive Models E84/F48 X1?

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Coolant Leaks - Water Pump & Thermostat - F48 X1?

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Front Suspension Bushing & Control Arm Wear - F48 X1?

What is the 2016-2023 BMW X1 Oil Leaks - Valve Cover & Oil Filter Housing - F48 X1?