BMW X1 Injector Failure: Symptoms and Solutions

Hey there! I've got some experience with BMWs, having dealt with similar issues on my 2016 BMW X3. I'd say I have some decent car knowledge, not an expert but I've learned quite a bit over the years. My X3 showed almost identical symptoms, jerking, excessive fuel consumption, and those nasty black smoke puffs. Turned out it was a loose connection in the wiring harness going to one of the injectors. The workshop found it during diagnostics, basically, the plug wasn't making proper contact due to some corrosion. Fixed it for about 95 Euro, mostly labor costs for tracking down the exact connection and cleaning/reseating it properly. Car's been running smooth since then. Before I can give more specific advice though, could you share: Current mileage on your X1? Any warning lights on the dash? When did these symptoms first appear? Have you had any recent work done on the fuel system? Let me know these details and I might be able to help more specifically!

Thanks for the detailed response! My X1's currently at 192143 KM and just had its service last month. No recent fuel system work though. The check engine light started flashing about a week ago, right when the jerking began. Glad to hear your issue was just a wiring problem, that's definitely easier on the wallet than replacing injectors! Did your mechanic need any specialized diagnostic tools to find that loose connection? I'm hoping mine's something similarly straightforward, but I'm a bit worried since the symptoms are getting worse each day. Might need to get it checked sooner rather than later.

Yeah I totally get your concern! When these symptoms hit my X3, I was worried sick too. Since you mentioned the check engine light's flashing, that's actually more urgent than what I dealt with, mine was just steadily on. My mechanic used their BMW-specific diagnostic computer to pinpoint the issue. It's worth noting though that with your mileage being higher than mine was (mine was around 160000 KM when this happened), and especially with that flashing check engine light, you might be looking at something more serious than my loose connection. I learned the hard way that flashing check engine lights usually mean the engine's misfiring, which could damage your catalytic converter if you keep driving. I'd strongly suggest getting it to a workshop ASAP, like, within the next day or two if possible. Don't make my initial mistake of driving around with it for a week! The symptoms getting worse daily is another red flag. While my issue was pretty consistent, yours sounds like it's degrading. Since you just had a service last month, maybe give that workshop a call? They might spot something they noticed during the service that could be related. Quick tip, try to avoid heavy acceleration until you get it checked. That's what the mechanic told me, and it makes sense since that's when you're seeing the smoke.

Thanks for the heads up about the flashing light being more serious, that's definitely got me more concerned now. You're right about not waiting around; I've actually just called my workshop and they can squeeze me in tomorrow morning. Better safe than sorry, especially with that catalytic converter warning. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, even though my issue might be different. I'll definitely take it easy on the drive to the workshop, no heavy acceleration as you suggested. I'll probably post an update once I find out what's actually wrong with it. Thanks again for all the info!