Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has developed 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 technology of the BMW X1, though 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 Era BMW X1 (E84)
The BMW X1’s debut technology 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 actual fact, being based mostly on the modern 3 Collection of the time makes it arguably essentially the most dynamically partaking 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 wish to look ahead to a timing chain recall that affected every one of these first technology 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 seemingly be on their second gas pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling programs must also be handled with further consideration on both powertrain. xDrive fashions are additionally extra sophisticated, since they’ve a switch case, which appears to be an everyday 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 automobiles is holding up nicely when it comes to inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here will not be particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 yr outdated automobiles. Assume worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 provides a stable steadiness of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t essentially the most dependable, it’s very seemingly essentially the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Era BMW X1 (F48)
The second technology BMW X1 is unquestionably the best 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. Control coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll seemingly be tremendous with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is a good concept should you’re the preventative upkeep sort, however they’re not even that large of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a identified situation to look out for on the check drive: apparently, this stuff 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 may be indicators that the automotive wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line ought to be changed as nicely. Observe this may solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Other than that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably secure purchase. No inside points or electrical points are broadly sufficient reported to make them one thing to be instantly cautious of. Nevertheless, there was a B pillar recall that impacts airbag deployment. You’ll positively wish to guarantee has been taken care of.
Third Era BMW X1 (U11)
The latest technology of the BMW X1 simply got here out in 2023, so there isn’t an entire lot to say right here but. The automotive comes with a B48 inline-four irrespective of which one you purchase; though there are important mechanical enhancements within the motor for the X1 M35i xDrive mannequin to make 312 horsepower. A bigger turbocharger, strengthened crankshaft, bigger fundamental bearings, new pistons, and a special compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nevertheless, the faster fashions may also seemingly have been pushed extra aggressively, so be sure to examine intently earlier than taking one dwelling. Aside from that, the same old B48 stoutness continues right here. Be conscious of oil, coolant, and cost pipe. Apparently, the U11 additionally had a B pillar recall for a really related airbag deployment situation. So, make it possible for’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Era is the Most Dependable?
Total, 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 might actually show to be a extra dependable automotive over time — notably with that hotter B48 engine. As common, bear in mind these breakdowns are normal pointers and the automotive you’re could have all, none, or totally different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection should you aren’t positive what you’re on the lookout for — it’ll most likely prevent 1000’s.
