Models · BMW
BMW X6 F16 buying guide
The second BMW X6, built from 2014 to 2019 alongside the F15 X5, with which it shares its engines and drivetrain. Most UK cars are straight-six diesels, with an eight-speed automatic and xDrive four-wheel drive on every version.
The versions
- xDrive30d (258PS) and xDrive40d (313PS): 3.0 straight-six diesel (N57)
- M50d: tri-turbo 3.0 straight-six diesel (N57S), 381PS
- xDrive50i: 4.4 twin-turbo V8 petrol (N63), 450PS
- Eight-speed automatic and xDrive four-wheel drive on all models; the X6 M has its own page
What to check on a F16 X6
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The diesel EGR cooler recall
What to look for: Before you travel, give the chassis number to a BMW dealer, or use BMW's online recall check, and ask whether any recall is outstanding. Ask for the paperwork if the seller says it's been done.
Why it matters: The xDrive30d and xDrive40d built from March 2014 to June 2015 were recalled because coolant could leak from the exhaust gas recirculation cooler, creating a fire risk. Most have been done by now, but confirming it is quick.
Shudder on tight turns
What to look for: In a car park, drive slowly at full lock in both directions. The car should turn smoothly with no judder, hopping or binding through the floor, and no drivetrain warning message.
Why it matters: Low-speed judder on tight turns is the usual sign of a worn xDrive transfer box. The X6 shares its xDrive system with the F15 X5, where the transfer case fluid can age quickly and judder is reported. BMW doesn't schedule a fluid change, but independent specialists recommend one, and four matching tyres help.
xDrive50i: coolant leaks from the top of the V8
What to look for: On the V8 petrol, with the engine cold, check the coolant level and look on top of the engine, in the middle between the two cylinder banks, for dried coolant crust. Note any sweet smell after the drive.
Why it matters: The N63 V8 in the xDrive50i, the same engine family used in the X5, is prone to coolant leaks from a pipe on top of the engine. It's a known repair, and a steady coolant level is what you want to see.
Also in the full guide
- Oil level on the diesels
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F16 X6
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.