Models · BMW
BMW X1 E84 buying guide
The first X1, built from 2009 to 2015 with sDrive rear-wheel drive or xDrive four-wheel drive, and a facelift in 2012. Most UK cars are N47 diesels, with four- and six-cylinder petrols also offered.
The versions
- Diesels: 2.0 four-cylinder (N47) in 16d, 18d, 20d, 23d and 25d forms
- Petrols: 2.0 four-cylinder (N46) in the 18i, and the 2.0 turbo N20 in the 20i and 28i from 2011
- Early six-cylinder petrols (xDrive25i and xDrive28i) to 2011
- sDrive rear-wheel drive or xDrive four-wheel drive
- 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic on earlier cars, and 8-speed automatic from 2011
What to check on a E84 X1
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Timing chain rattle on the diesel
What to look for: Ask for the engine to be started from cold. Listen at the back of the engine, where it meets the bulkhead, for ticking, knocking or rattling on start-up or when the revs drop back. On the drive, a small black puff under hard acceleration is normal; other smoke is not. Ask whether the timing chain has been replaced.
Why it matters: Owners of the 2.0 diesel have reported stretched and snapping timing chains, and a chain that snaps causes serious engine damage. On the N47 the chain runs at the gearbox end, so replacing it is a big job. Many cars have already had the chain done, and that invoice is a strong point in a car's favour.
The diesel EGR cooler recall
What to look for: On an sDrive20d or xDrive25d built from May 2011 to April 2015, ask whether the EGR cooler recall work has been done, or check with a BMW dealer using the VIN.
Why it matters: BMW recalled these diesels because the EGR cooler could leak coolant, which with the heat of the system could cause a fire risk. The recall was later extended. Most cars have been done, but it's quick to confirm.
Engine bolt recall (cars built before November 2011)
What to look for: On an earlier car, ask for evidence of the engine bolt recall, and watch for an engine management light on the drive.
Why it matters: Four engine bolts could loosen and let oil leak into a sensitive area, which can bring on the engine warning light. The recall replaces them. It's a free fix and most have been done.
Also in the full guide
- Heavy steering (cars built before July 2012)
- Power supply recall (cars built to August 2011)
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E84 X1
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.