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, although it’s nonetheless fairly younger within the patchwork of BMW’s historical past. We’ll spotlight the most typical points to observe for and rank them by general 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 probably 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 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 technology vehicles. Assorted oil leaks — significantly one which develops across the turbocharger — are additionally considerably widespread. N55-powered vehicles will finally want a cost pipe and can doubtless be on their second gas pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling methods must also 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.
Outdoors the driveline, the first-generation BMW X1 doesn’t have a ton of issues. This period of BMW automobiles is holding up properly when it comes to inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here should not particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 yr previous automobiles. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 presents a strong stability of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t probably the most dependable, it’s very doubtless probably the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Era BMW X1 (F48)
The second technology 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 doubtless be advantageous with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is an honest concept for those who’re the preventative upkeep kind, however they’re not even that massive of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a recognized problem to look out for on the check 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 could be indicators that the automotive wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line ought to be changed as properly. Notice this can solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Except for that, although, the F48 X1 is a fairly protected 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 need 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 a complete 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 essential bearings, new pistons, and a distinct compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nevertheless, the faster fashions may even doubtless have been pushed extra aggressively, so be sure you examine carefully earlier than taking one house. Aside from that, the standard 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 problem. So, guarantee that’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Era is the Most Dependable?
General, we expect the F48 BMW X1 is the most secure wager 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 automotive over time — significantly with that hotter B48 engine. As standard, keep in mind these breakdowns are basic 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 for those who aren’t certain what you’re searching for — it’ll in all probability prevent 1000’s.
