Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has advanced from a rear-wheel-drive, 3 Collection–based mostly 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, regardless that 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 reality, being based mostly on the up to date 3 Collection 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 typically 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 automobiles. Assorted oil leaks — notably one which develops across the turbocharger — are additionally considerably widespread. N55-powered automobiles will ultimately want a cost pipe and can possible be on their second gas pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling techniques must also be handled with additional consideration on both powertrain. xDrive fashions are additionally extra difficult, since they’ve a switch case, which appears to be a daily failure level for higher-mileage examples.
Outdoors the driveline, the first-generation BMW X1 doesn’t have a ton of issues. This period of BMW automobiles is holding up nicely when it comes to inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here are usually not particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 yr outdated automobiles. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 presents a strong steadiness of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t probably the most dependable, it’s very possible probably the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Technology BMW X1 (F48)
The second era BMW X1 is unquestionably the best to buy. BMW solely provided 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. Keep watch over coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll possible be high-quality with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is an honest thought in case you’re the preventative upkeep kind, however they’re not even that huge of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a recognized concern to look out for on the take a look at drive: apparently, this stuff burn by means of engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations by means of the chassis when making sharp, full or near full lock is perhaps indicators that the automobile wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line needs to be changed as nicely. Notice this may solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Apart from that, although, the F48 X1 is a fairly secure purchase. No inside points or electrical points are extensively 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 irrespective 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, strengthened crankshaft, bigger essential bearings, new pistons, and a unique compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nonetheless, the faster fashions can even possible have been pushed extra aggressively, so ensure you examine carefully earlier than taking one house. Apart from that, the same old 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 comparable airbag deployment concern. So, be sure that’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Technology is the Most Dependable?
General, we expect 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 definitely show to be a extra dependable automobile over time — notably with that hotter B48 engine. As ordinary, bear in mind these breakdowns are normal pointers and the automobile you’re taking a look at could have all, none, or totally different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection in case you aren’t certain what you’re in search of — it’ll most likely prevent hundreds.
