BMW X1 Parking Brake Failure Triggers Multiple Systems

Hey there! I had something really similar happen with my 2019 BMW X3 last year. I have some experience working on cars, but with these electronic issues, I knew I needed professional help. My symptoms were almost identical, parking brake failed, hill assist gone, and those annoying warning lights all over the dash. Took it to my trusted workshop, and it turned out the electric motor in the brake caliper was completely dead. They replaced the defective motor and recalibrated the system. Cost me around 505 Euro, but it fixed everything. What's your mileage on the X1? Also, does it make any unusual sounds when you try to engage the parking brake? This info would help understand if you're dealing with the same issue. Just a heads up, don't drive too long with these symptoms. I learned that ignoring electronic brake issues can lead to bigger problems with other systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's at 154957 KM, and yes, I get a clicking noise when trying to engage the brake. Had my last service about 2 months ago and everything was fine then. Think I'll follow your advice and get it checked out ASAP, don't want to risk any bigger issues. Just hoping it's the same motor problem and not something more complicated. Really appreciate the detailed breakdown of what happened with yours, gives me a good idea of what to expect at the workshop.

Hey again! Thanks for the follow-up. Yeah, that clicking sound you're describing is exactly what I heard with mine before it completely failed. With your mileage being similar to what mine was when it happened (I was around 160K), it's looking more and more like the same issue I had with the brake caliper motor. Good call on planning to get it checked soon. When mine started acting up, I waited about a week before taking it in, and honestly, I wish I hadn't delayed. The symptoms got worse pretty quickly, and I started noticing the traction control going wonky too. Just a tip from my experience, when you take it in, make sure they check the wiring harness connection to the motor as well. My mechanic found some minor corrosion there, and cleaning that up was part of the fix. Might save you some trouble down the road. Keep me posted on what they find! Always interesting to compare notes on these issues, especially since these electronic parking brakes seem to be a common weak point in our BMWs.

Thanks so much for the extra details! That tip about the wiring harness is super helpful, I'll definitely mention it when I take it in. Actually, I've already called the workshop and they can see me tomorrow morning, so I'm not taking any chances. You've really put my mind at ease about this whole situation. The similarity between our cases, especially with the clicking sound and mileage, makes me feel better about what to expect. I was worried it might be something major with the whole brake system, but it sounds more manageable now. I'll probably spend the evening backing up my car carefully into my garage just to be safe until the appointment. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and follow-up tips, it's made this whole situation a lot less stressful!