Is the 2020 BMW X1 Three-Cylinder Engine Prone to Severe Vibration?
2 Answers
2020 BMW X1 three-cylinder engine vibrates severely. BMW X1 Three-Cylinder Engine Technology: BMW's three-cylinder engine technology is quite average, especially in controlling vibration and noise issues, where it has consistently underperformed compared to the General Motors group. Many owners of three-cylinder X1 models report that the engine produces significant noise and vibration during cold starts, which are more noticeable than those of typical four-cylinder engines. These issues improve somewhat after the engine warms up. Additionally, this three-cylinder engine generates considerable noise when operating at high RPMs. Three-Cylinder Engine Performance: The power output of BMW's three-cylinder engine is relatively weak. This 1.5T engine can only produce 140 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque. While many compact family cars are equipped with 1.5T engines, the X1's heavier curb weight, combined with this 1.5T engine being less powerful than comparable 1.5T models, results in significantly weaker acceleration capabilities at high speeds compared to the 2.0T models.
The B38 three-cylinder engine in the 2020 BMW X1 does have inherent vibration issues. With one less cylinder than a four-cylinder engine, the piston movement is unbalanced. Even though BMW added balance shafts and optimized engine mounts, you can still feel slight steering wheel tremors during start-up or at traffic lights. Especially when the AC compressor kicks in, the entire dashboard vibrates, and you can even see drinks shaking in cups placed on the passenger seat. The first two years with a new car are tolerable, but as rubber components age, idle vibrations become more noticeable. Some owners have improved the situation by adding sound insulation in the engine bay, but the fundamental solution is regular replacement of engine mounts. It's recommended to pay special attention to low-speed crawling conditions during test drives.
