Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has developed from a rear-wheel-drive, 3 Sequence–primarily based crossover into a contemporary, tech-filled compact SUV. However with that evolution comes a variety of possession experiences. On this information, we’ll break down every era of the BMW X1, although it’s nonetheless fairly younger within the patchwork of BMW’s historical past. We’ll spotlight the commonest points to look at for and rank them by total reliability.
First Technology BMW X1 (E84)
The BMW X1’s debut era was a brief one within the US: it was solely on sale between late 2012 and 2016. It’s additionally fairly a bit totally different from the opposite X1 generations in that it’s rear-wheel drive. In truth, being primarily based on the modern 3 Sequence of the time makes it arguably probably the most dynamically participating X1 you may get. Powertrain choices consisted of an N20 turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a a lot hotter N55 turbocharged inline-six. Each are usually dependable mills.
With the four-cylinder fashions (28i) you’ll need to look ahead to a timing chain recall that affected each one of these first era vehicles. Assorted oil leaks — notably one which develops across the turbocharger — are additionally considerably widespread. N55-powered vehicles will ultimately want a cost pipe and can probably be on their second gasoline pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling techniques also needs to be handled with additional consideration on both powertrain. xDrive fashions are additionally extra sophisticated, since they’ve a switch case, which appears to be a daily failure level for higher-mileage examples.
Exterior the driveline, the first-generation BMW X1 doesn’t have a ton of issues. This period of BMW autos is holding up nicely by way of inside high quality. The most important points you’ll discover right here will not be particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 12 months outdated autos. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 provides a strong stability of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t probably the most dependable, it’s very probably probably the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Technology BMW X1 (F48)
The second era BMW X1 is certainly the simplest to buy. BMW solely supplied the US market a four-cylinder mannequin, which relied on a B46 inline-four and both front- or all-wheel drive. Fortunately, the B46 is essentially the identical because the B48 engine with some slight variations in emissions controls. Regulate coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll probably be wonderful with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is an honest concept in the event you’re the preventative upkeep kind, however they’re not even that large of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a recognized situation to look out for on the check drive: apparently, these items burn via engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations via the chassis when making sharp, full or near full lock is likely to be indicators that the automobile wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line ought to be changed as nicely. Word this can solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Apart from that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably protected purchase. No inside points or electrical points are broadly sufficient reported to make them one thing to be instantly cautious of. Nonetheless, there was a B pillar recall that impacts airbag deployment. You’ll positively need to guarantee has been taken care of.
Third Technology BMW X1 (U11)
The most recent era of the BMW X1 simply got here out in 2023, so there isn’t an entire lot to say right here but. The automobile comes with a B48 inline-four regardless of which one you purchase; though there are vital mechanical enhancements within the motor for the X1 M35i xDrive mannequin to make 312 horsepower. A bigger turbocharger, bolstered crankshaft, bigger primary bearings, new pistons, and a unique compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nonetheless, the faster fashions can even probably have been pushed extra aggressively, so be sure you examine intently earlier than taking one house. Apart from that, the standard B48 stoutness continues right here. Be conscious of oil, coolant, and cost pipe. Curiously, the U11 additionally had a B pillar recall for a really related airbag deployment situation. So, be sure that’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Technology is the Most Dependable?
General, we predict the F48 BMW X1 is the most secure guess out of the bunch. However there’s a little bit of an asterisk there. The primary-gen is a much better driving expertise. And the U11 may actually show to be a extra dependable automobile over time — notably with that hotter B48 engine. As normal, bear in mind these breakdowns are common tips and the automobile you’re might have all, none, or totally different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection in the event you aren’t certain what you’re on the lookout for — it’ll most likely prevent 1000’s.
