2013 BMW X1 Gear Not Displaying and No Response When Starting?
3 Answers
2013 BMW X1 gear not displaying and no response when starting as follows: 1. Main faults: BMW models equipped with the 6HP21 series automatic transmission mainly experience faults in three major areas: torque converter, mechatronic unit, and mechanical unit. These are common issues with the 6HP21 transmission, and after the vehicle reaches a certain mileage, these three modules are likely to exhibit some faults to varying degrees. 2. Specific symptoms: The specific fault manifestations include: jerking, collision-like sensations; impact when engaging or shifting gears, stalling when engaging gears; vehicle slipping, inability to accelerate, weak or no power when starting; abnormal noises, overheating, and other fault phenomena. 3. Solution: If not repaired in time, it poses a significant safety threat, so it is essential to address any faults promptly when they occur.
I used to drive an old BMW and encountered a similar issue where the gear indicator lights on the dashboard wouldn't turn on, and pressing the start button didn't get any response from the car. Back then, I found out it was due to a drained battery because BMW's electronic systems are quite sensitive—when the battery is weak, both the gear position sensor and the starting system can fail. I recommend you check the battery first: try turning on the headlights, and if they appear dim or don't light up at all, it's likely a battery issue. You can ask for help to jump-start the car with jumper cables; if it starts, then go replace the battery. If that doesn't work, it might be a faulty gear position sensor, which is quite common in BMW X1s, especially in older cars with aging wiring. I ended up replacing the sensor to fix the problem. To prevent such issues, make it a habit to ensure the gear is in 'P' (Park) before turning off the engine. If you still can't figure it out, have it towed to a professional shop for inspection—avoid repeatedly attempting to start the car, as it could cause further damage.
When the gear indicator doesn't display and the car fails to start, it's usually an electronic or control system malfunction. For your 2013 X1, first check these common points: Test the key fob battery - if it's a keyless start system, low battery may cause recognition failure. Then inspect the fuse box, locate the engine start and transmission-related fuses (typically near driver's footwell), pull them out to check for burns, and try replacing with identical models. Also measure battery voltage - below 12 volts may cause issues. Additionally, BMW's gear position sensors are prone to dirt or failure (located near gear lever), somewhat tricky to remove but DIY-able. I've also encountered loose relays during repairs - gently tapping the wiring box might help. Always consult the manual before repairs for safety. If these don't work, wiring tests or module replacement may be needed - visit a repair shop early to avoid bigger expenses.
