Buying a used 2018 BMW X1? Check these 4 recalls first
This is the busiest S 1000-era X1 year on record. Four recalls apply, led by a critical-severity steering tie rod that may break and a high-severity crankshaft sensor fault that can stall the engine, plus taillights that can loosen and roof pillar trim that may not cushion head impact. NHTSA carries 59 owner complaints — unverified reports — citing 6 crashes, 2 fires, and 6 injuries, concentrated in structure (22), electrical (8), and air bags (6).
Before you buy
- Get the 17-character VIN from the seller and run it at nhtsa.gov/recalls. It shows which recalls are still unrepaired on that exact car.
- Get written confirmation the steering tie rod recall was completed, and have the steering and front suspension inspected.
- Ask whether the crankshaft sensor recall was done and whether the car has ever stalled while driving.
- Inspect taillight mounting and roof pillar trim, and ask about any airbag or structural repairs given the complaint pattern.
- Open recalls are repaired free at any BMW dealer, whoever owns the car — an open recall is a to-do item, not a bill.
Recalls covering the 2018 BMW X1
| Recall | Area | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| BMW and MINI steering tie rod may break | Steering | critical |
| BMW and MINI crankshaft sensor fault can stall engine | Engine And Engine Cooling | high |
| BMW X1 taillights can loosen or fall off | Exterior Lighting | medium |
| BMW X1 roof pillar trim may not cushion head impact | Structure | medium |
What owners have reported to NHTSA
59 complaints filed for this model year, including 6 mentioning a crash, 2 a fire and 6 injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, and popular models collect more of them simply because more are on the road.
| Problem area | Complaints | Recall in this area? |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 22 | Yes |
| Electrical System | 8 | None found |
| AIR Bags | 6 | None found |
| Engine | 5 | Yes |
| Visibility And Wipers | 4 | None found |
| Steering | 3 | Yes |