The 2016 BMW X1 has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 159 complaints with NHTSA, including 1 crash, 1 fire, 4 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Unknown Or Other (64 reports).
2016 BMW X1 recalls
B-Pillar May Not Absorb Head Impact in a Crash
The upper interior B-pillars in these vehicles may not absorb enough energy if an occupant's head strikes them during a crash.
Driver's seat belt may not lock properly in a crash
The driver's seat belt retractor on certain 2016-2017 BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles may not lock as designed.
Steering Gearbox May Fail, Risking Loss of Control
The steering gearbox in these vehicles may have been manufactured with incorrect parts.
Most common 2016 BMW X1 problems
Problem areas named in the 159 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Unknown Or Other | 64 |
| Power Train | 33 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 18 |
| Structure | 17 |
| Electrical System | 13 |
| Engine | 8 |
| Service Brakes | 8 |
| Steering | 4 |
| Air Bags | 4 |
| Suspension | 4 |
What owners report
Known HVAC-produced moisture drainage issue that cause water to get trapped inside the system and cabin air filter housing, causing significant mold or mildew to grow on the filter itself and spread spores through cabin ventilation system and contaminates air inside cabin which poses serious health hazards.
- Roof and pillars I have been having for almost a year when trying to open and slide on the track. It is harsh and noisy. - Engine oil filter housing and coolant leak. This issue is critical. Finally on April 10, 2025 I ended spending $1007.52 to get the housing replaced to stop the ongoing drip drip effect. - Steering gear box. This issue remains despite the fact that I replaced struts. For almost a year since I bought the vehicle, there appears to be a clunking type noise especially when going over rail tracks on the road where I am forced to almost come to a complete stop to let the car go over the tracks out of fear of sustaining damage.
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 BMW X1. The contact stated that it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 81,295, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 135,400.
About 24 months back the sunroof curtain of my BMW X1 started having problems when I retract or operate it. It used to make stretching noises when I tried to open my sunroof and after a few times I heard a crackling noise and before I can stop it the curtain tore. Initially it was a small tear, so it did not bother much but over time the curtain completely left the guide/rail on one side and started sagging. Given it is a sunroof the curtain is as long as the vehicle and so now it is sagging to a point that it obstructs driver's visibly in back mirror. BMW won't do anything about it saying it is out of warranty and ultimately to avoid accidents I had to remove the curtain completely. I also
My 2016 BMW X1 28i is leaking coolant. I am also getting a smell of something burning inside the car when driving. This is consistent with problems associated with the 2024 recall for water pump. I was told by my dealership that my vehicle was not one affected by the recall. I think it might be one that is. The vehicle could catch fire if there is a failure of the wiring.
2016 BMW X1 questions
Does the 2016 BMW X1 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2016 BMW X1: B-Pillar May Not Absorb Head Impact in a Crash; Driver's seat belt may not lock properly in a crash; Steering Gearbox May Fail, Risking Loss of Control. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 BMW X1?
Based on 159 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Unknown Or Other (64), Power Train (33), Visibility/Wiper (18).
How do I check if a recall on my 2016 BMW X1 has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.