BMW X1 AWD Problems: Transfer Case Crisis?

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars and had a very similar issue with my 2016 BMW X3 last year. Those symptoms sound really familiar, especially the AWD warnings and jerking. In my case, it turned out to be an ABS sensor malfunction that was causing havoc with multiple systems, the AWD, transmission control, and stability systems are all interconnected. Luckily, my regular workshop found this during a diagnosis while it was still under extended warranty, so it didn't cost me anything. They replaced the faulty ABS sensor and recalibrated the system, which fixed everything. Before we jump to conclusions though, could you share: How many miles are on your X1? When did these symptoms first appear? Have you noticed any other warning lights specifically? Any recent work done on the car? This info would help me understand if you're dealing with the same issue I had. BMWs can be tricky with their integrated systems, where one fault can trigger multiple symptoms.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got 33573 KM on the clock, and these symptoms started right after my latest service. The thing is, my situation seems a bit different from yours, I'm also getting a transmission warning light along with the AWD and stability control warnings. Feels more like a transfer case issue than just a sensor, especially with that jerking feeling during acceleration. Really hoping it's not gonna be a major repair, but at least I've got some leads now to discuss with my mechanic. Any other thoughts based on these details?

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details, that actually changes my initial thoughts quite a bit. Since you mentioned the symptoms started right after service, and you're getting that transmission warning light that I didn't have, I'm thinking this might be something different from my ABS sensor situation. Looking back at my own BMW experience, I did actually have another issue a few months before the ABS sensor problem where the transfer case fluid got contaminated during a service. The symptoms were pretty similar to what you're describing, especially that jerking during acceleration. The transmission warning light is what makes me think this might be your issue too. In my case, they had to flush the transfer case and replace the fluid. They also found some metal shavings in there, which wasn't great news. The whole job cost me quite a bit, but it was way better than having to replace the entire transfer case. Given that the timing lines up with your service, I'd definitely suggest getting back to whoever did the work and having them check if anything went wrong during the service. Could be as simple as contaminated or wrong fluid being used. You might want to have them check the transfer case fluid level and condition while they're at it. Just my two cents based on what happened with my car. Keep us posted on what you find out!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! You've actually got me pretty worried now about that service connection. I just called my mechanic and mentioned what you said about the transfer case fluid, and they agreed it could definitely be related to the recent service. They're going to check it first thing tomorrow morning, and they're being really good about it since it started right after they worked on it. This jives with what I've been feeling, that jerking during acceleration was making me nervous about bigger transmission problems, but contaminated fluid would explain everything. Really hoping it's just that and not actual transfer case damage. The metal shavings you mentioned have me concerned though. I'll definitely get them to check the fluid condition carefully. I'll update the thread once I know what's actually wrong. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it's given me a much better idea of what to discuss with the workshop!