BMW X1 Timing Issue? Power Loss + Valve Noise Problems

Hi there! I have some experience working on cars and had a very similar issue with my 2013 BMW X3 last year. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I went through, engine light, sluggish performance, and that annoying ticking noise. Turned out my crankshaft sensor was failing. Had it diagnosed at my regular workshop and they confirmed it was throwing sensor-related codes. I initially tried resetting the ECU, but the problem came back within days. Finally had to bite the bullet and get the sensor replaced, cost me around 340 Euro for parts and labor, but the car's been running perfectly since. Before I can give more specific advice, could you share: How many miles/kilometers on your X1? Are there any specific error codes showing? Does the ticking noise get worse when the engine warms up? I know BMWs pretty well (also owned a 3 Series previously), so happy to help further once you provide more details.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My X1 has 87365 KM and had its last service about 4 months ago. The ticking noise actually stays pretty consistent, doesn't get worse with warm-up. Haven't pulled the error codes yet, but planning to get that done this weekend at my friend's workshop. Your crankshaft sensor story is super helpful, definitely sounds similar to what I'm experiencing. It's good to know the fix wasn't overly complicated or crazy expensive. I'll update the thread once I get those codes read. Really appreciate the detailed response!

Hey again! Really glad I could help before. You know, after reading your latest update about the consistent ticking noise, I'm actually starting to think your issue might be a bit different from what I initially experienced with my X3. In my case, the ticking actually did get worse when warm, which was a telltale sign of the crankshaft sensor. The fact that your noise stays consistent makes me wonder if it might be related to the timing chain system instead. My actually had this on his X1, very similar symptoms to what you're describing. The timing chain tensioner was the culprit in his case, and it was causing that steady metallic noise you mentioned. Definitely a good call getting those codes read this weekend. When you do, keep an eye out for any P0016 or P0017 codes, these are typically related to the timing system. Could you maybe record the noise with your phone? It'd help to hear what you're dealing with. And yeah, don't worry too much about the mileage, 87k km isn't really that high for these engines. Once you get those codes, give me a shout. We can figure out if it's heading down the same path as my previous sensor issue or if it's something else entirely. Keep us posted!

Thanks for the follow-up! You've actually made me feel a bit better about the whole situation. I managed to record the noise this morning on my phone, tried to capture it both at startup and after running for a few minutes. You're right that it might be the timing chain system rather than the sensor, especially since the noise pattern is different from what you experienced. The more I think about it, the more I remember the service technician mentioning something about checking the timing chain during my next major service. Maybe I should have paid more attention to that! I'll definitely watch for those specific codes you mentioned (P0016/P0017) when I get it checked this weekend. The timing chain tensioner issue your had, was it an expensive fix? Just trying to mentally prepare myself for what might be coming. Thanks again for all your help. Really great to get advice from someone who knows these cars inside out. I'll update you once I have those codes!