2022+ · 1.5L B38 3-cylinder turbo petrol (136 hp / 100 kW)
BMW's latest compact SUV built on the front-wheel-drive FAAR platform. Modern, spacious, and practical family car with comprehensive safety tech. The B38 engine is generally reliable when maintained, but the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) has documented jerky behavior at low speeds and is the subject of a class-action lawsuit in the US. Main concerns: DCT transmission hesitation and delayed response (up to 7 seconds reported), integrated brake system recall affecting 2023-2024 models, iDrive 8 software glitches including CarPlay disconnects and system crashes, and aggressive auto start-stop that cannot be permanently disabled without coding. Too new for comprehensive long-term data, but early warranty claims show transmission and electrical issues are most frequent.
Class-action lawsuit alleges up to 7-second delay from standstill, jerky low-speed operation · more· less
BMW switched from an 8-speed torque converter automatic to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in 2023. This has proven controversial. A US class-action lawsuit alleges the DCT can take up to 7 seconds to respond to throttle inputs, making the car "life-threatening" when pulling out of intersections. Common complaints include jerky operation in stop-and-go traffic, hesitation from standstill, and rollaway in unintended directions. Early warranty data shows transmission issues are among the most frequently reported problems. DCTs are inherently less smooth at low speeds than torque converters. If under warranty, software updates may help. Severe cases may require mechatronic unit replacement (€2,000-4,000). This is a known design characteristic rather than a defect on individual cars.
Integrated brake system malfunction€0 - €2,500
Official recall for welds breaking in brake servomotor, loss of power assist · more· less
BMW recalled 2,401 examples of 2023 X1 xDrive28i built between August 2022 and October 2023. Welds in the integrated brake control module servomotor can break, causing loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. ABS and DSC may also fail. Mechanical braking remains functional and parking brake automatically engages to assist. Dealers replace the integrated brake module free of charge. Parts shortages reported - some owners waited 4+ months for repairs. Check if your VIN is affected and recall completed. Replacement parts from initial recall also require replacement due to expanded recall scope.
System reboots while driving, Apple CarPlay disconnects, navigation freezes · more· less
iDrive 8 is BMW's newest infotainment system and has documented stability issues. Common problems include random system reboots causing blank screen while driving (sometimes multiple consecutive reboots), chronic Apple CarPlay connection loss, navigation system crashes and map freezes, SiriusXM presets disappearing monthly, and touchscreen becoming unresponsive. Pattern typically starts with minor Bluetooth glitches, progresses to system instability, then hard crashes requiring reboot. Most issues resolve with software updates (free) or hard reset (hold volume knob 20-30 seconds). Severe cases may require dealer software reflash (€150-300) or rarely module replacement (€800+). Keep system updated via over-the-air updates. Many owners report frustration with over-reliance on touchscreen and lack of physical climate controls.
Notoriously troublesome when dirty, single faulty sensor disables entire system · more· less
BMW X1 parking sensors are known to fail prematurely when exposed to dirt or water. A single faulty sensor is enough to disable the entire Park Distance Control system. Clean sensors regularly to extend life. Diagnosis: with transmission in reverse, hold finger half-inch from each sensor - functional sensors emit faint clicking sound. Professional replacement averages €730-770 in US, €145 in UK. OEM sensors cost €118, aftermarket €10-30. DIY is possible - on U11 requires removing undertray and wheel arch liner, then reaching behind bumper. Sensors don't require programming but may need fault code clearing.
Plastic coolant components fail from thermal cycling, "ghost leaks" difficult to spot · more· less
The B38 (and related B48) engines suffer coolant system issues common to modern BMW modular engines. Most common failure points: oil filter housing gasket/O-rings (typically around 60,000-70,000 km), electric water pump (70,000-100,000 km), and coolant vent line between cylinder head and expansion tank. Early B38/B48 engines had problematic oil filter housing part number 11428596283. Symptoms include coolant warning light, coolant smell, or visible puddles under car. "Ghost leaks" are common - coolant disappearing without obvious leak. Diagnosis requires pressure testing. Oil filter housing repair: €400-600 (3 hours labor, requires oil and coolant drain). Water pump replacement: €700-1,400. Use only BMW-approved coolant when refilling.
Auto start-stop system over-aggressive behavior€0 - €200
Shuts off engine at every stop, cannot be permanently disabled without aftermarket coding · more· less
BMW's auto start-stop system on U11 X1 is notoriously aggressive and resets to "on" every drive cycle. Must be manually disabled each trip via button press or menu navigation. Causes hesitation and jerking during low-speed driving, especially with DCT transmission. Many owners find this the most annoying "feature." BMW no longer allows dealers to code permanent disable on newer models. Workaround: disable traction control (not DSC) which also disables start-stop. Aftermarket coding with BimmerCode app may work but BMW has locked down many coding functions on newer vehicles. Some owners report success coding "remember last setting" but effectiveness varies by software version. Not a reliability issue but significant quality-of-life annoyance.
Parasitic draw from electronics, cars may not start after 7-10 days parked · more· less
Modern BMWs with extensive electronics can experience battery drain issues. "Increased battery discharge while stationary" warning indicates voltage drop and non-essential systems (windows, seats, sunroof) are disabled to preserve battery. Common causes: devices plugged into 12V outlets (dashcams, phone chargers), faulty comfort access module, defective junction box, or aftermarket devices drawing power when car sleeping. AGM batteries don't tolerate being fully flattened. Solutions: unplug all 12V devices, enable "Deep sleep mode" in vehicle settings (Apps > Vehicle apps > System settings), check battery age (replace if 5+ years), ensure replacement battery properly coded to vehicle. New battery costs €200-300, professional installation and coding €400-500. If persistent, have dealer diagnose parasitic draw.
Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)€400 - €800
Typical direct-injection issue, requires walnut blasting every 60,000-80,000 km · more· less
The B38 uses direct fuel injection which sprays fuel directly into cylinders. This means intake valves don't get washed with fuel and carbon deposits build up over time. Symptoms: rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, reduced fuel economy, misfires. Preventive walnut blasting recommended every 60,000-80,000 km. Professional walnut blasting costs €400-600 at independent shops, €600-800 at dealers. This is normal maintenance for direct-injection engines, not a defect. Cannot be prevented but using quality fuel and occasional Italian tune-up (sustained high-RPM driving) may slow buildup.
Too new for comprehensive reliability data
The U11 X1 launched in 2022, so long-term reliability data is limited. Early warranty claims show transmission behavior and electrical/infotainment glitches are most common complaints. The B38 engine itself is proven and generally reliable when maintained. The new DCT transmission is the primary concern - this is a known characteristic that affects all units, not isolated failures. Most issues are covered under warranty (4 years/80,000 km in Europe). If buying used, verify all recalls completed and test transmission behavior extensively during test drive.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete BMW dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (not BMW's extended 30,000 km - should be 10,000-15,000 km maximum).
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds, rattles, or rough idle.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, panel gaps.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including city traffic, highway, and stop-and-go conditions.
Specific for this vehicle
DCT transmission behavior in stop-and-go traffic
Critical: Spend at least 15 minutes in slow traffic. Test throttle response from complete stop. Note any hesitation, jerking, or delay (1+ seconds is concerning, 5-7 seconds is lawsuit-level). Test with Auto Hold engaged and disengaged. This is the single most important check for this vehicle.
Verify integrated brake system recall completed (2023-2024 models)
Contact BMW dealer with VIN. Recall 24V-104 affects xDrive28i built Aug 2022 - Oct 2023. Expanded recall may affect additional models. Do not purchase until verified completed.
iDrive 8 system stability test
Test Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connection. Navigate through multiple menus. Start navigation route. Play music via Bluetooth. Watch for system freezes, reboots, or crashes. Check if software is up to date.
Check for coolant leaks and level
Inspect engine bay for coolant residue, especially around oil filter housing (passenger side). Check coolant expansion tank level when cold. Brown or milky appearance indicates contamination.
Test all parking sensors and cameras
Engage reverse and approach obstacles. All sensors should beep. Check front sensors in tight spaces. Test 360-degree camera if equipped. Clean sensors first if issues detected.
Battery health and electrical system
Check battery age (label on battery or via diagnostic scan). Test all electrical systems: windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof, climate control. Look for "increased battery discharge" warning in vehicle status.
Auto start-stop behavior
Test system at multiple stops. Note if engine restarts smoothly or with hesitation. While annoying, this is not a defect - just be aware you'll need to disable it every drive.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Integrated brake system malfunction (2023-2024)Verify completed - CRITICAL
Driver's front airbag deployment (2023 built Aug-Feb)Verify completed
Second-row seat belt pinch (2023 xDrive28i/M35i)Verify completed
Contact BMW dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The integrated brake recall is expanded and ongoing - parts shortages reported. Some dealers quote 4+ month wait times for brake module replacement. Multiple software recalls also issued but not all owners notified.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (Europe)2 years unlimited km
Powertrain warrantyCheck regional variations
Corrosion perforation warranty12 years
BMW Premium Selection (used cars)Up to 2 years, available
2022-2024 models may still be within original factory warranty depending on registration date. European BMW warranty is typically 2 years with unlimited kilometers (varies by country - Netherlands follows this standard). Extended warranty available through BMW dealers. Given documented DCT and electrical issues, extended warranty worth considering if buying used outside factory coverage.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.