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helmutmiller64

BMW X1 Auto Start-Stop Failure, Engine out of nowhere Dies

Hey all! Having some trouble with my 2017 BMW X1 (38,670 km, gas engine). The start-stop system suddenly stopped working, and I'm getting warning lights in the speedometer. The engine's been shutting off out of nowhere, and there's an error code stored. Had a not-so-great experience with my last mechanic, so I'm a bit hesitant about where to take it. Has anyone experienced similar issues with their X1? What was the diagnosis and repair cost? Looking for recommendations on reliable mechanics who know their way around BMWs. Thanks in advance!

4 comment(s)

kevin_storm7

I had a similar issue with my 2014 BMW X3 last year. The symptoms were nearly identical, unusual engine shutoffs and warning lights. Turned out the battery was severely degraded and couldn't maintain proper voltage, which affected multiple systems including the start-stop feature. The diagnosis revealed that high temperatures had accelerated the battery wear. The repair required a new AGM battery and a battery registration procedure using a BMW-specific diagnostic tool. It wasn't just a simple battery swap, the car's computer needed proper programming to recognize the new battery. It's definitely a serious issue that needs immediate attention as it can leave you stranded or cause additional electrical system damage. Make sure to find a shop with BMW-certified technicians and proper diagnostic equipment. Don't try to solve this with a regular battery replacement at a general auto parts store. After the fix, all systems returned to normal operation, and I haven't had any issues since. Given your symptoms, I'd bet you're dealing with the same problem.

helmutmiller64 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful, as my X1's symptoms sound exactly like what you described. I'm relieved to hear it might just be a battery issue rather than something more complicated. Quick question, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole fix? Also, just curious if you've had any other electrical gremlins pop up since getting it sorted?

kevin_storm7

Hey again! Just wanted to update you about the costs since you asked. I got my X3 fixed and paid 290 € for the whole thing, this covered the new AGM battery and the programming work. And I've got some good news to share, the start-stop system is working perfectly now. It's such a relief! You know what's really great? I haven't had a single electrical problem since getting it sorted. Not one warning light, no unusual shutdowns, nothing. The car's running like a dream. The mechanic said the old battery was totally shot, which was causing all those weird issues. When they checked it out, the battery was so discharged it was affecting pretty much everything. Getting that new battery properly installed and registered to the car's computer made all the difference. Trust me, once you get it fixed, you'll be amazed at how many little quirks just disappear. Just make sure whoever works on it knows their BMWs, that battery registration bit is super important. They can't just slap a new battery in there and call it done.

helmutmiller64 (Author)

Thanks so much for the detailed info! I actually just got back from the mechanic today, and you were spot on about everything. I finally got the courage to take it in after our chat, and guess what? It was definitely the battery! The whole ordeal ended up costing me about 320 €, a bit more than yours but still totally worth it. The mechanic I found was really knowledgeable and walked me through the whole process. He showed me how the old battery was causing all those unusual shutdowns and warning lights. What a relief to finally have it fixed! Took it for a good test drive, and the start-stop system is working perfectly again. No more anxiety about unusual engine shutoffs! It's amazing how one failing part can cause so many weird issues. Really appreciate everyone's help here. Sometimes it's just about finding the right mechanic who knows what they're doing. Mine even gave me some tips about battery maintenance going forward. Who knew a battery could cause such headaches?

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