2019 BMW X1 recalls & problems

Recent owner complaints

• Oct 12, 2026Steering
  While releasing the manual telescope lever on my 2019 BMW X1 (under 75k miles) to adjust the steering wheel, the steering column completely bypassed its factory structural travel stop and jammed rock-solid in the farthest extended position and will not budge. The steering wheel is now physically wedged against my torso, making it impossible to maintain the federally recommended 10-to-12-inch safety clearance from the driver's airbag. Independent mechanics have refused to touch the vehicle due to the liability and safety risks of breaking the collapsible column or for fear of accidentally deploying the airbag. This is a manufacturing and design defect that directly compromises the vehicle's…
• Oct 7, 2026Structure › Body
  On [XXX] at approximately [XXX], I was driving my 2019 BMW X1 northbound on the [XXX] in Manhattan at a steady highway speed when the powered rear liftgate unexpectedly opened approximately halfway without any intentional activation. The key fob was stationary in the center cupholder. I did not activate any liftgate controls. I became aware of the opening after hearing wind noise and another motorist honking. A folding cart and a child’s travel car seat fell from the cargo area onto the highway. I subsequently returned and recovered both items near the concrete median. The cart sustained substantial damage. I did not witness a collision and am unaware of any third-party injury or property…
• Apr 24, 2026Power train
  My car began shaking at low speeds when turning. Brought it to a mechanic to investigate and they performed a recommended manufacturer alteration on the car related to rear differential vent. That did not fix the issue and mechanic said a full rear differential replacement was required and it was a safety issue. If the rear differential failed while driving it could cause a serious accident. He suggested that the manufacturer knew there was an issue because they had this upgrade in their service literature. My concern is that the manufacture knew of a potential safety defect and did not initiate a recall. My car has 58k miles which in my opinion should not put it at risk for major…
• Sep 5, 2025Engine
  A recall was issued for similar vehicles (X1) but ended with the 2018 model year (Recall 24V-608). This issue continues to be present in the 2019 model year. The thermostats in subsequent year models continue to leak, presenting a hazard. An engine warning lamp triggered an inspection at BMW Honolulu which identified the thermostat leak issue requiring “immediate attention.” In addition, BMW engine mounts in the same model year vehicle have failed in less than 6 years of operation which could present a significant operational hazard. This issue was identified at the same time as the thermostat issue referenced previously. A similar dealer recommendation of “immediate attention,”…
• Nov 12, 2024 · 44,770 milesElectrical system
  The contact owns a 2019 BMW X1. The contact stated that the emergency call error light illuminated the instrument panel. In December of 2024, the contact received notification regarding an extended warranty coverage for the battery to be replaced. The contact was unable to immediately take the vehicle to the dealer due to other reasons. Once the contact was able to take the vehicle to the dealer, the contact was informed that the time frame for the Battery Extended Warranty coverage for the replacement of the battery had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The manufacturer opened a case and decided to cover 50% of the cost for the repair. The…
• Jun 15, 2023Electrical system
  SOS Malfunction For the past two years, I have received a notice on my dashboard that there is a problem with the Emergency Call System. However, the message appears intermittently for weeks or months at a time.211/400
• Nov 4, 2024 · 39,673 milesEngine and engine cooling
  The contact owns a 2019 BMW X1. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for an oil change and was informed that the vehicle was leaking coolant. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling, the contact became aware that there was coolant on the ground underneath the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer determined that the water pump had failed. The dealer confirmed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The water pump was replaced. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer referred the…
• Sep 1, 2023Electrical system
  Emergency call (SOS) system is malfunctioning. This prevents the vehicle from communicating if an accident happens. BMW service stated the problem could be caused by water leaking on to the telematics control unit from the shark fin antenna, which would require replacing the unit. The TCU is located under the head liner beneath the shark fin. The head liner has to be removed to diagnosis and replace the TCU. This is poor engineering placement makes the fix difficult and very costly. The life saving feature is compromised!

Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.