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thomasfriedrich2

BMW X1 Stalling Issues: Fuel Regulator Problems?

Hi all, need some help with my 2018 BMW X1. Having serious issues with the engine, stalling and fluctuating RPMs at idle, plus the check engine light is on. Power feels reduced and throttle response is sluggish. I suspect it might be the fuel volume regulator, but looking to hear from anyone who's dealt with similar symptoms. What was the actual problem and how did your mechanic fix it? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

4 comment(s)

jonathanflame65

I had a very similar issue with my 2016 BMW X3 last year. I have some experience working on cars, but this was beyond my DIY abilities. My symptoms were almost identical, rough idle, power loss, and CEL. Took it to my trusted workshop and after diagnostics, they found the high-pressure fuel pump was failing. Total repair cost was 1510 Euro including parts and labor. Since the fix, the car has been running perfectly. Before I share more specific details about the repair, what's your mileage and have you noticed any other symptoms? Also, have you scanned for error codes? This could help confirm if we're dealing with the same issue. The X1 and X3 share many components, so I might be able to offer more targeted advice based on your situation.

thomasfriedrich2 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! My X1 just hit 186069 KM and had its last service about 3 months ago. I haven't scanned for codes yet, but those symptoms you described match exactly what I'm experiencing. That's really helpful to know about the high-pressure fuel pump, definitely sounds like it could be the same issue. Did you notice any specific sounds or vibrations before the pump completely failed? Just trying to confirm if I'm dealing with the same problem before heading to the workshop.

jonathanflame65

Hey there! Yes, I remember dealing with this exact situation with my X3. Actually, now that you mention it, I did notice some distinct symptoms before the high-pressure fuel pump completely gave out. There was this subtle whining noise coming from the engine bay, especially noticeable during cold starts. Also, I experienced unusual vibrations through the steering wheel when accelerating from a stop. One thing I forgot to mention in my earlier reply, before taking it to the workshop, I tried using premium fuel for a couple of fills, thinking it might help. It seemed to improve things slightly for a day or two, but then the problems came right back. Your mileage is pretty similar to what mine was when the pump failed (I was around 180,000 KM). Given the age of these cars and the similarities in our symptoms, I'd bet you're dealing with the same issue. The high-pressure fuel pump is a known weak point in these engines. Quick tip, before you head to the workshop, try to record any unusual sounds with your phone. It really helped my mechanic pinpoint the issue faster. Also, if you're experiencing the same whining noise I mentioned, that's pretty much a dead giveaway for the fuel pump problem. Definitely get those error codes read though. Would be interested to know if you get the same ones I had, might save you some diagnostic time at the shop.

thomasfriedrich2 (Author)

Thanks so much for all that detailed information! The whining noise you mentioned, I've actually been hearing that too, especially in the morning! I didn't think much of it initially, but now it makes total sense. And yes, I've noticed those steering wheel vibrations as well. Really starting to sound like we had identical issues. I'll definitely record the sounds before heading to the workshop, that's a brilliant tip. And you're right about the error codes, I'll get those checked first thing tomorrow. I've got a with a diagnostic tool who can help me out. The premium fuel tip is interesting too, I actually tried that last week and had the same experience as you. Slight improvement at first, then right back to the same problems. Given all these matching symptoms and similar mileage, I'm pretty convinced it's the high-pressure fuel pump. At least now I can go to the workshop with a better idea of what I'm dealing with. Thanks again for all your help, really saved me a lot of worry and guesswork!

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