Last updated: 2026-03-04
2019 BMW X1 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 BMW X1 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 10 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (F48).
Recalls
3
Complaints
10
Complaint Rate
5.6
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$915
About avgMajor Repair Risk
8%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
3 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (F48).
- Redesigned for the 2016 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 2nd generation X1 (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
Second generation (F48)
Should You Buy the 2019 BMW X1?
The 2019 BMW X1 scores 72/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2019 is year 4 of the Second generation (F48).
With 10 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (4). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 BMW X1, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2018 BMW X1 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Low major repair risk (8%)
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- Moderate recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (4 complaints)
- STRUCTURE: Owners of the 2019 BMW X1 report issues related to the availability of recall... (2 complaints)
Compare 2019 BMW X1 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- STRUCTURE (2)
- SUSPENSION (1)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
The 2019 BMW X1 has 3 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 20.3
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
3
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 BMW X1 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2019 BMW X1. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STEERING
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 BMW X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, 2019 X2 xDrive28i, MINI Cooper S Convertible, Countryman, and John Cooper Works Countryman vehicles. The steering gear tie rod may have been assembled incorrectly, which may result in excessive wear of the tie rod end, eventually causing it to break.
Consequence
A broken steering tie rod would lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the tie rods and ball joints as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525.
STRUCTURE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2016-2019 X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles. In the event of a crash where the occupants head contacts the B-pillar, the pillar may not absorb an adequate amount of the impact. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
Consequence
In the event of a crash, the insufficient impact absorption can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the vertical trim pieces on the upper portion of the interior B-Pillars, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 1, 2019. Second notices will be sent as parts become available, starting on September 27, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018-2019 BMW X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i vehicles. Contaminated hardware may cause the attachment brackets of the taillight housings to crack, causing the lights to loosen or possibly detach from the vehicle.
Consequence
If a taillight detaches from the vehicle, it would no longer provide the required lighting to following traffic, or it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will properly secure the taillights, free of charge. The recall began March 28, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2019 BMW X1 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.7%
Safety Technologies
BMW X1 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$915
vs $859 avg for luxury compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.7
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
8%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2019 BMW X1
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test emergency call (SOS) system for error messages
- Inspect for coolant leaks under the vehicle
- Check for water damage near the telematics control unit
- Verify completion of structural recall repairs
- Inspect moonroof for any signs of damage or stress
Check Any 2019 BMW X1's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 X1 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific BMW X1 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2019 BMW X1 Common Problems by Component
10 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 BMW X1 frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly concerning the emergency call (SOS) system. Common symptoms include the emergency call error light illuminating on the dashboard and intermittent messages indicating a malfunction in the system, which some owners have experienced for extended periods. One complaint noted a complete vehicle shutdown with flashing dashboard lights at approximately 17,000 miles, posing a potential safety risk. Another complaint links the SOS malfunction to possible water damage from the shark fin antenna, affecting the telematics control unit. These issues typically arise around 17,000 to 44,770 miles, with some reports indicating difficulty in obtaining timely warranty repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical system concerns and the associated safety implications.
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 BMW X1 report issues related to the availability of recall parts for structural repairs. Complaints frequently mention delays in obtaining the necessary parts for NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V349000, with both dealers and the manufacturer unable to provide a timeline for when parts will be available. No failures or symptoms have been experienced by the owners at the time of reporting, and no specific mileage or timeline patterns are noted. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of vehicle control associated with this issue. Buyers should be aware of potential delays in recall repairs due to parts availability.
SUSPENSION
1 complaintA 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,” suggests the severity of the issue. This vehicle has been properly serviced at BMW Honolulu since it was purchased as a certified pre-owned vehicle from BMW Honolulu on October 22, 2022.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaintThe 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 contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 39,673.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintThe moonroof spontaneously exploded while traveling on interstate highway at 65 mph. I was in the open and no vehicles were near me. I was showered in glass but uninjured because I was wearing a brimmed hat. I could have but did not lose control of the vehicle. There was no warning or other indicator of the problem. The dealership inspected and replaced at no cost to us. No police or insurance involvement.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe car is equipped with Driving Assistant. BMW Active Driving Assistant is a collection of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies. Active Driving Assistant includes forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. BMW Active Driving Assistant systems help a driver to avoid a collision. The package includes advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that are increasingly common as standard equipment for mainstream and luxury brands alike. Forward-collision warning monitors for obstacles ahead, and with Active Driving Assistant the technology can also identify pedestrians in the vehicle’s path. If the driver fails to brake, the automatic emergency braking system engages to stop or slow the BMW before impact. Be sure to understand that with Active Driving Assistant, the automatic braking works only at lower city speeds. On faster-flowing highways and freeways, the driver must respond to potential collision situations. ( https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-bmw-active-driving-assistant ). The car was involved in a rear end collision striking the vehicle in front of it on May 28, 2021 at approx. 11:36 AM (picture attached). The car was on York Road near [XXX] being driven in heavy lunch-hour traffic when the accident occurred. My wife, [XXX], was driving the vehicle. She is named on my auto insurance policy. She was taken to the hospital via ambulance to Belvedere/Sanai Hospital at 2401 West Belvedere Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215. She sustained a broken sternum, major bruising and lacerations on her arms and legs. The vehicle was towed to a holding yard (Linhard's Towing, 11013 York Road, Cockeysville, MD 21030) by the police due to the air bags deploying. The steering wheel, drivers lower leg and passenger side curtain air bags deployed. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
When Do 2019 BMW X1 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst BMW X1 Years
Best BMW X1 Years to Buy
The best BMW X1 year is 2021 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (74/100) and 2025 (73/100).
BMW X1 Years to Avoid
The worst BMW X1 year is 2023 with a score of 64/100, primarily due to service brakes, hydraulic (21) issues.
See full BMW X1 years-to-avoid analysis →BMW X1 Reliability Score Trend
BMW X1 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 71/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
BMW X1 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 BMW X1 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 BMW X1?
How many recalls does the 2019 BMW X1 have?
Is the 2019 BMW X1 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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