RoadVitals

2020 BMW X1 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
13
Latest Jul 29, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
8
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
2

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2020 BMW X1, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Powertrain (other)421.1%
  • Engine315.8%
  • Fuel system315.8%
  • Electrical210.5%
  • Seat belts210.5%
  • Brakes210.5%
  • Driver assistance210.5%
  • Airbags15.3%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X1. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated to 10 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. During the failure, the messages, "Chassis Stabilization: Drive Moderately," "Collision Warning System Malfunction," "Pedestrian Warning Reduced," and "Drivetrain: Continued Driving Possible" were displayed. The vehicle was pulled over into a remote emergency lane and driven 10 miles to an exit. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a short circuit to ground at the throttle body. The contact was informed that the throttle ground wire and controller needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,000.

NHTSA ID 11753485 · filed Jul 29, 2026

Wastegate actuator turbo failure. Causes sudden loss of power to engine. Turbo function impacted. Drivetrain malfunction warning on dashboard. No prior warning sent. Problem with wastegate has been confirmed by Independent Service Center. Found similar issue with BMW E-Series Model 530e xdrive sedan Production dates 2/22/17-6/18/20 which extended warranty to 15 yr/150000 miles for same part. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11646229 · filed Mar 4, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Wastegate actuator turbo failure. Causes sudden loss of power to engine. Turbo function impacted. Drivetrain malfunction warning on dashboard. No prior warning sent. Problem with wastegate has been confirmed by Independent Service Center. Found similar issue with BMW E-Series Model 530e xdrive sedan Production dates 2/22/17-6/18/20 which extended warranty to 15 yr/150000 miles for same part. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11646229 · filed Mar 4, 2025

On Sept 8, 2021, on I-5, North of Marysville, WA, a truck threw a rock through the lower radiator of our X1. We lost all coolant and car was hauled to BMW, Seattle on 9/9/21. On 9/10 service rep Josh Logan advised: "We confirmed that it does not come with a guard, but when you order a new part, that does come in conjunction." and that: "no warranty coverage, as it does not cover damages, so you would have to go through your insurance for that one." We did so and USAA covered the amount above the $1000 deductible. It is unacceptable that the need for the rock shield was clearly a known condition, yet when damage occurred due to it not being installed from new, that the replacement was not covered under warranty. First Name: [XXX] Last Name: [XXX] Email Address: [XXX] Phone Number: [XXX] Preferred Contact Method: Email Address: [XXX] City: [XXX] State: [XXX] ZIP Code: [XXX] Own a BMW: Yes Year: 2020 Series: X Model: X1 xDrive28i VIN: [XXX] Month Purchased: November Year Purchased: 2020 INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

NHTSA ID 11436620 · filed Oct 13, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X1. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated to 10 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. During the failure, the messages, "Chassis Stabilization: Drive Moderately," "Collision Warning System Malfunction," "Pedestrian Warning Reduced," and "Drivetrain: Continued Driving Possible" were displayed. The vehicle was pulled over into a remote emergency lane and driven 10 miles to an exit. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a short circuit to ground at the throttle body. The contact was informed that the throttle ground wire and controller needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,000.

NHTSA ID 11753485 · filed Jul 29, 2026

The fuel tank got punctured on the freeway causing the car to lose power. The problem seems that BMW plastic fuel tank is located on the right side at the bottom of the car so any stone or particle on the freeway can puncture the plastic tank from the bottom causing no fuel and the car losing power. Seems like that is problem with design and BMW is aware of it since the new models of the car starting 2023 have an extra underbody protection for the fuel tank which is missing on the previous year models.

NHTSA ID 11666751 · filed Jun 13, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I had a series of concerning incidents with my car. The trunk door was getting stuck halfway, but I was able to close it after turning on the engine. I also encountered a malfunction error on the backup camera, a Drive Train warning sign, and the car alarm going off by itself. The most alarming issue was when the car started smoking and then caught fire underneath the hood near the driver's side windshield. Thankfully, my father and I were able to put out the flames with a water hose before calling 911 to report the incident to the fire department. The car is considered a total per Geico Insurance.

NHTSA ID 11611674 · filed Aug 29, 2024

it all started with the Battery and Powertrain and lound Loud niose from under my vehicle and my rear tail light code default. service forgetting to put the clamps back on i took the vehicle back from service and drove over 200 miles when the code for the above mention malfuntion appeared again they admitted the negilence of the service team...from that point on they my car was in and out of service for weeks at a time from September 2023 until Febuary 2024. I endlessly tried to resovle reimbursement and prove my vehicle was unsafe to drive and manufacture defects. i also consulted corporate several times submitting claim and nothing was esculated or followed up. listed below are the issues I have experienced on sevaral trips in my vehicle.I am in panic state each and every time I drive this vehicle. the codes and invetigation numbers are associted with the creen shots I obtained with the service machanics virtual video of my visits: 10228427 B220222 10177616 B010419 10176377 B610520 10228428 B120723 1024907 B611305 10178993 B160319 My Request would be a Brand Buy Back or my Rights for claim under Indiana lemon law consumer act.

NHTSA ID 11590598 · filed May 24, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I got my BMW X1 in December of 2020 and currently has 21,000 miles. I've notice unusual wear and tear on the driver side seatbelt so I brought it into the dealer but all they said was that it needs to be replaced. I don't think this is a normal wear and tear because as I've said, I only drove this vehicle for 21,000 miles. The tear is expanding and I believe this can be a serious safety issue during an accident or sudden stops. I was concerned if this was an issue to similar vehicles or if it's just my vehicle.

NHTSA ID 11590316 · filed May 23, 2024

I was in a front end crash at approximately 30 to 35 miles per hour and airbags did not deploy nor did the seatbelt lock. My chest hit the steering wheel and I was transported by EMS to hospital. Nothing was broken. I had a bruise upper right chest but my pain is in my sternum which is not visibly bruised but is very sore and my activity and mobility is impaired. My radiator was busted and car was towed by local police department to tow yard which is where it is right now. Soon to be moved to a repair center as the police report becomes available. It has not been inspected at this point. Just want to make the issue known.

NHTSA ID 11429002 · filed Aug 13, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

it all started with the Battery and Powertrain and lound Loud niose from under my vehicle and my rear tail light code default. service forgetting to put the clamps back on i took the vehicle back from service and drove over 200 miles when the code for the above mention malfuntion appeared again they admitted the negilence of the service team...from that point on they my car was in and out of service for weeks at a time from September 2023 until Febuary 2024. I endlessly tried to resovle reimbursement and prove my vehicle was unsafe to drive and manufacture defects. i also consulted corporate several times submitting claim and nothing was esculated or followed up. listed below are the issues I have experienced on sevaral trips in my vehicle.I am in panic state each and every time I drive this vehicle. the codes and invetigation numbers are associted with the creen shots I obtained with the service machanics virtual video of my visits: 10228427 B220222 10177616 B010419 10176377 B610520 10228428 B120723 1024907 B611305 10178993 B160319 My Request would be a Brand Buy Back or my Rights for claim under Indiana lemon law consumer act.

NHTSA ID 11590598 · filed May 24, 2024

On 7/1/22, my Vehicle Alert came on advising that the front brake pads need replacement and to schedule an appointment within 1,000 miles. I called the same day to schedule an appointment with my local dealer. However, the next available date was on 7/13/22. I specifically requested an earlier date, but that was the only available slot they had. I brought my vehicle in on 7/13/22 (alert now says schedule an appointment within 800 miles so i had driven 200 miles) and was given an estimate to replace the front brake pads. On the same day, i get a call from the dealer service advisor that the front rotors also needs replacement as they were damaged due to continued driving with worn down brake pads. They also advised the engine mount was cracked and leaking. My safety concern is that the alert should have came on sooner as I called to schedule an appointment the same day the alert came on but the only available time for almost two weeks later. There should have been a more urgent alert (i.e. replace within 50 miles) as I would have then made separate arrangements immediately. Alternatively, the alert should come on much earlier in the brake pads' wear detection. Instead, I was unknowingly driving my vehicle with dangerously damaged rotors due to the false sense of safety as the alert said schedule appointment within the next 1000 miles and I had only driven 200 miles. This put not only my safety at risk but others on the road as well should my brakes have failed. A crash would have been more dangerous in light of the cracked engine mount and leak. I understand brakes are wear and tear and customer pay but i feel that the alert system design and logic needs to be looked at as non-savvy drivers rely on them to make appointments accordingly.

NHTSA ID 11492346 · filed Nov 4, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2020 BMW X1. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated to 10 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. During the failure, the messages, "Chassis Stabilization: Drive Moderately," "Collision Warning System Malfunction," "Pedestrian Warning Reduced," and "Drivetrain: Continued Driving Possible" were displayed. The vehicle was pulled over into a remote emergency lane and driven 10 miles to an exit. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a short circuit to ground at the throttle body. The contact was informed that the throttle ground wire and controller needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,000.

NHTSA ID 11753485 · filed Jul 29, 2026

I had a series of concerning incidents with my car. The trunk door was getting stuck halfway, but I was able to close it after turning on the engine. I also encountered a malfunction error on the backup camera, a Drive Train warning sign, and the car alarm going off by itself. The most alarming issue was when the car started smoking and then caught fire underneath the hood near the driver's side windshield. Thankfully, my father and I were able to put out the flames with a water hose before calling 911 to report the incident to the fire department. The car is considered a total per Geico Insurance.

NHTSA ID 11611674 · filed Aug 29, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

I was in a front end crash at approximately 30 to 35 miles per hour and airbags did not deploy nor did the seatbelt lock. My chest hit the steering wheel and I was transported by EMS to hospital. Nothing was broken. I had a bruise upper right chest but my pain is in my sternum which is not visibly bruised but is very sore and my activity and mobility is impaired. My radiator was busted and car was towed by local police department to tow yard which is where it is right now. Soon to be moved to a repair center as the police report becomes available. It has not been inspected at this point. Just want to make the issue known.

NHTSA ID 11429002 · filed Aug 13, 2021

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .