BMW X2 Rough Running and Limp Mode: Common Causes & Fixes

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars, and I actually dealt with something very similar on my 2016 BMW X1 last year. Had almost identical symptoms, rough running, jerking, CEL, and limp mode. Took it to my regular workshop, and they found a leak in the exhaust system near the manifold. Got it fixed for about 265 Euro, and it's been running smooth since then. From what you're describing, it sounds like it could be the same issue, but I'd need to know: Have you noticed any unusual exhaust sounds? Did you get any specific error codes from the CEL? Do you hear any ticking noises when the engine's running? My mechanic also mentioned that similar issues sometimes pop up on the X3 model as well. Let me know these details, and I might be able to share more specific info about what helped in my case.

Just had my last service about 3 months back at 56103 KM and experienced something really similar! It turned out to be a faulty ignition coil in my case. The symptoms were spot on with what you're describing, the jerking, rough running, and limp mode were exactly what I dealt with. My mechanic replaced the coil and spark plugs as a preventive measure, and it solved the problem completely. The whole job cost around 400 including parts and labor. Might be worth checking that first before diving into more complex issues like exhaust leaks. Let me know if you need any more details about what exactly they did to diagnose it.

Hey again! Thanks for sharing your experience with the ignition coil issue. You know what's funny? After I wrote about my exhaust leak, I actually remembered that I had a similar ignition coil problem about two years ago on my X1! Can't believe I forgot to mention that. The symptoms were practically identical, same jerking, rough running, everything. The exhaust leak I mentioned earlier was a separate issue, but yeah, these coils can definitely cause all those problems you're describing. Mine acted up around 55000 KM mark too, pretty close to your mileage. Had the same fix, new coil and plugs. Cost was pretty similar as well. Really good point about checking the simpler stuff first. These BMWs can throw all sorts of misleading symptoms, and sometimes we jump to the worst conclusions. When my coil went bad, I was convinced it was something way more serious (and expensive!). By the way, after replacing those parts, did you notice any difference in fuel consumption? Mine definitely improved after the fix. Just curious if you had the same experience.

Thanks for the follow-up! Yeah, you're totally right about these BMWs being tricky with symptoms. Actually, now that you mention fuel consumption, I definitely noticed an improvement after the coil and plugs were replaced. I was getting about 15-20% better mileage, which was a nice bonus I wasn't expecting. The funny thing is, before I got it diagnosed, I was also convinced it was something major. Was already preparing myself for a massive repair bill! Really glad my mechanic checked the basics first. Appreciate you sharing both your experiences with the exhaust and coil issues. Think I'll get my car checked out tomorrow, and I'll make sure they look at the ignition system first. Will let you know what they find, but betting it's going to be exactly what we've discussed here. Thanks again for all the insight!