The BMW X1 is a luxury compact SUV that started out as a 2013 model year.
As is the case with any vehicle, this model is susceptible to alarm-related problems.
If your X1’s alarm system keeps going off, this article should have the information you need…
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Why Does My BMW X1 Alarm Keep Going Off?
A BMW X1 alarm is usually triggered by a faulty hood switch or door switch as these sensors are prone to defects or damage through years of use. Other common causes include issues with the remote communication system, battery problems, and incorrectly installed aftermarket equipment.
1. Faulty Hood Switch
A malfunctioning hood switch often leads to unintentional alarm triggers in this vehicle model.
This switch is usually integrated into the hood latch mechanism.
As a vital component of the vehicle’s alarm system, this small electronic device determines the hood’s status – open or closed.
Faults, looseness, or dirt accumulation in the switch can result in incorrect signals being sent to the vehicle’s computer, which in turn can activate the alarm unnecessarily.
- Open the hood and locate the hood switch.
- Check for any clear signs of damage, rust or loose connections.
- Give the hood switch a thorough cleaning (with contact cleaner), as dirt and grime can cause issues.
- With the right tools, you can test the switch with a continuity tester.
If you’re mechanically skilled, consider purchasing a new hood switch online for DIY replacement. Otherwise, it’s best to consult a local mechanic.
Here are what X1 owners said on BimmerForums.com:
“The hood switch is a common cause for this problem. For diagnosis you could try disconnecting to see if the problem goes away…”
“If it is the hood switch, you can unplug it & see if the false alarms go away. If that is the problem, before you purchase a new hood switch, put something in the hood sound deadening material where the hood sensor plunger hits the deadening material…”
2. Faulty Door Switches
Faulty door switches are a common cause of random alarms. If damaged, faulty, or dirty, they can send false readings thereby triggering the alarm.
Door switches are a common point of failure as they are subject to wear and tear due to the doors being continually opened/closed/slammed etc.
The door latches and door switches can get dirty too which can cause issues, so the first thing you should do is give all door latches a good clean and spray some WD-40 on the latch and work it in to see if that helps.
Also check the wiring leading from the body into the door for any signs of damage, it should be in a flexible hose on the hinge side of the door.
If you suspect the alarm issues are linked to the door switch, ask your dealer to run a diagnostic test to try and pinpoint the fault.
Related: 8 Most Common BMW X1 Problems (Explained)
3. Issues with the Remote Communication System
Sometimes, poor reception leads to a communication error between the X1 and the BMW app. Failing to receive the correct vehicle status may force the SUV to activate its security alarm.
A quick fix often involves refreshing the app’s status. This can be done by pulling down from the top of the app screen, prompting it to fetch the latest information from the vehicle.
To prevent similar issues, ensure both your vehicle’s software and the BMW app are up-to-date.
If issues persist, consider a professional diagnostic check. BMW service centers can examine the system more thoroughly, identifying any underlying issues not immediately apparent to the user.
Here is what one owner said on BimmerPost.com:
“[The alarm going off] happens to me too sometimes with the app. But only when parked in a garage with bad reception/signal…”
4. Loose or Bad 12V Battery Connections
Improper or loose connections of the 12V battery can lead to various issues, including the unintended activation of your X1’s alarm.
Such connections often suffer from accumulation of dirt or corrosion.
Regular driving and the resultant vibrations can loosen the battery terminals.
Always turn off the engine before attempting any battery maintenance.
Follow the general guidelines below if you plan to make the assessment yourself:
- Examine the battery for any indications of wear, such as dirt, rust, or corrosion.
- Detach the battery, starting by loosening the clamp nuts with a wrench.
- Always disconnect the negative clamp, identified by a ‘-’ sign, first.
- Use a toothbrush soaked in a baking soda and water solution to clean the terminals. Rinse with distilled water and dry thoroughly.
- When reconnecting the battery, make sure the connections are secure and tight.
“The most common [cause of alarm issues] is the battery being low voltage or faulty, I would get the battery tested first.” – JustAnswer.com
5. Drained 12V Battery
A weak car battery can lead to several issues, including unintended alarm activation.
It’s advisable to get your battery checked for its health, which is often a low-cost or free service at places like AutoZone.
Alternatively, you can conduct a self-assessment using a multimeter (refer to the guide at the end of the article below).
Typically, a functioning 12V battery should register between 12.6 and 12.8 volts, whereas a failing one will show below 12 volts.
Here is what one X1 owner said on BimmerForums.com:
“Is your battery fully charged? I had this [alarm] issue with a low battery.”
6. Key Fob Running on Low Battery
A common cause of mysterious alarms is a low key fob battery. Similarly, if the fob is dirty or dusty this can also cause alarm issues.
Give the inside of your fob a clean and replace the battery to eliminate this possible cause. It’s worth spending a bit extra for a good brand of battery.
- To open your key fob, stick your prying tool into the slit or gap between the two halves of the outer casing and gently apply upward pressure to pop open the device.
- Remove the battery.
- Give the key fob a good clean to remove any dirt or fluff – a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol should do the trick.
- Check for damage, rust or loose connection (you may need a new key fob depending on what you find).
- Be sure to insert the new battery facing the right way up.
- Assemble the outer casing of your key fob by clamping them back together.
7. Faulty Key Fob
Another reported cause of nuisance alarms on this vehicle is a faulty key fob.
If you have 2 remotes, try taking the battery out of one and use the other for a while.
If the alarm problems persist, and you have tried cleaning the inside of the fob(s) and changing the battery, the best thing to do is speak with your dealer.
8. Incorrectly Installed Aftermarket Alarm
An incorrectly installed or faulty aftermarket alarm system is a common cause of nuisance alarms.
Aftermarket alarms are typically far more complex than any factory-installed equipment which makes them more prone to issues.
They may also have been installed by incompetent individuals.
If you are experiencing issues with an aftermarket alarm, the best thing to do is speak with a reputable auto electrician.
9. Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
A faulty body control module can cause a wide range of issues including nuisance alarms.
- The BCM is in charge of electrical communication from different electronic systems.
- This includes the alarm system, lock-unlock functions, climate control etc.
- If you have a faulty BCM you may notice other electrical glitches too
- This can include intermittent operation of various electrical functions, such as the horn, lights, wipers and instrument cluster dials
The signals sent from the door and hood are sent to the BCM to be interpreted and it is a core part of the alarm system.
The BCM can be connected to a diagnostic scan tool which should uncover any errors or show a lack of communication with the main computer.
If in doubt, speak to your local dealer or a reputable mechanic to carry out the tests for you.
10. Damaged Wiring
Damaged electrical wiring can cause a wide range of problems, it can often be tricky to pinpoint too and you may need to have an auto electrician run some diagnostic tests.
In some instances, rodents may have chewed through an electrical wire.
11. Motion Sensor Detection
The X1’s alarm system may inadvertently be triggered by the motion detection system.
To prevent false alarms caused by motion detection inside the vehicle, such as when leaving pets inside, owners can deactivate the interior motion sensor.
This is typically done by pressing the lock button on the key fob a second time after initially locking the vehicle.
12. Animals Climbing On The Vehicle
If your alarm has been set off in the middle of the night, it may have been by an animal climbing on the vehicle.
States such as Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Texas, Wisconsin, and Carolina have large wild raccoon populations.
Have a look for footprints on the hood and the roof.
If you have a CCTV system, examine the footage. These animals usually appear during the night.
13. Not Closing Doors, Hood, or Trunk Properly
Something as simple as not properly closing the doors, hood, or trunk will inevitably trigger the alarm.
Make sure to check if you have closed every point of entry of your vehicle to avoid accidentally tripping your vehicle’s alarm.
Alternative Suggestions
Check for Recalls or TSBs
By entering your car’s VIN number on BMW’s recall page or the NTHSA’s Safety Issues & Recalls page you can determine whether or not there is a TSB or recall for your vehicle and if there is you’ll want to get it addressed.
A recall is issued by a vehicle manufacturer for issues that are safety-related, while a TSB covers components that may be malfunctioning but don’t compromise the safety of the vehicle.
Disconnect the Battery
Sometimes mysterious alarm problems can disappear with a simple reboot, there are no guarantees here but it’s worth a try.
Disconnect the battery for 20 seconds and this resets many of the electronics in the vehicle.
Check For Warning Messages
When the alarm occurs can you see any lights or warning messages on the instrument panel?
This can give a clue as to what’s causing the alarm e.g. ‘Hood Ajar’.
Take it to a BMW Dealership
If needed, take your BMW to the dealership.
Tell them you are NOT paying for a check on what the problem might be.
Ask them if they will check it for free.
Most dealerships and other places do quick/initial diagnosis for no money as they plan to make money for the repair of your vehicle.
If your unit is still under warranty then they should fix and resolve the issue for free.
How to Test the 12V Battery
How to Test the Battery:
- Before testing, remove the surface charge from the battery, this allows for an accurate reading.
- Simply turn on the headlights for 2 minutes then turn off.
- Set the multimeter dial to the ’20 Volts’ setting.
- Make sure the car is turned OFF.
The multimeter will have a red probe and a black probe.
- The red probe is for making contact with the positive terminal.
- The black probe is for making contact with the negative terminal.
Measure across the battery terminals.
- The meter should display a reading, if the battery is fully charged the voltage should be between 12.2 and 12.6 volts.
- Anything under 12V and the battery should be charged or replaced.
Related: BMW X2 Alarm Going Off? (13 Common Causes)
Sources
https://www.bmwusa.com/owners-manuals.html
https://cdn.dealereprocess.org/cdn/servicemanuals/bmw/2016-x1.pdf
https://www.bmwusa.com/safety-and-emission-recalls.html
