Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has advanced from a rear-wheel-drive, 3 Sequence–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, regardless that it’s nonetheless fairly younger within the patchwork of BMW’s historical past. We’ll spotlight the most typical 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 completely different from the opposite X1 generations in that it’s rear-wheel drive. In reality, being based mostly on the up to date 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 typically dependable mills.
With the four-cylinder fashions (28i) you’ll wish 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 ultimately want a cost pipe and can seemingly 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 sophisticated, since they’ve a switch case, which appears to be an everyday 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 autos is holding up nicely by way of inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here usually are not particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 12 months outdated autos. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 gives a stable steadiness of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t probably the most dependable, it’s very seemingly probably the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Era BMW X1 (F48)
The second technology BMW X1 is certainly 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. Regulate coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll seemingly be positive with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is a good concept in the event 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 identified concern to look out for on the check drive: apparently, these items burn by way of engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations by way 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 must be changed as nicely. Observe it will solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Other than that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably protected purchase. No inside points or electrical points are extensively 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 undoubtedly 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 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 vital 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 will even seemingly have been pushed extra aggressively, so be sure to examine carefully earlier than taking one dwelling. Apart from that, the same old B48 stoutness continues right here. Be aware of oil, coolant, and cost pipe. Apparently, 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 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 definitely show to be a extra dependable automotive over time — significantly with that hotter B48 engine. As traditional, bear in mind these breakdowns are normal pointers and the automotive you’re could have all, none, or completely different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection in the event you aren’t positive what you’re in search of — it’ll most likely prevent 1000’s.
