What the BMW X1 VIN decoder shows
The X1 is BMW’s smallest SUV. In the US it has been sold since the 2013 model year, in three generations, with rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive depending on the year. Our decoder shows:
- Exact model: for example sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive35i or M35i xDrive. BMW encodes the model type in characters 4 to 7.
- Generation: E84, F48 or U11, based on the model year and model code.
- Engine: 2.0L turbo four or, on the 2013–2015 xDrive35i, 3.0L turbo six.
- Drivetrain: two-wheel drive (sDrive) or xDrive all-wheel drive.
- Model year and assembly plant: from characters 10 and 11.
- Open safety recalls: any recall on record with NHTSA for that exact VIN.
BMW X1 generations in the US
| Generation | US model years | Layout | Main US models |
|---|---|---|---|
| U11 | 2023–present | Front-engine, all-wheel drive only in the US | xDrive28i, M35i xDrive |
| F48 | 2016–2022 | Front-wheel-drive base, optional xDrive | sDrive28i, xDrive28i |
| E84 | 2013–2015 | Rear-wheel-drive base, optional xDrive | sDrive28i, xDrive28i, xDrive35i |
Good to know: “sDrive” does not mean the same thing on every X1. On the 2013–2015 E84 it is rear-wheel drive. On the 2016–2022 F48 it is front-wheel drive. The VIN confirms which one you are looking at.
Which X1 do you have? Models and engines
A badge can be changed or removed. The VIN cannot. Compare what the decoder shows with this table:
| Model | US model years | Engine | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| M35i xDrive (U11) | 2025–present | 2.0L turbo four, high output | All-wheel drive |
| xDrive28i (U11) | 2023–present | 2.0L turbo four (B48) | All-wheel drive |
| xDrive28i (F48) | 2016–2022 | 2.0L turbo four (B46/B48) | All-wheel drive |
| sDrive28i (F48) | 2016–2022 | 2.0L turbo four (B46/B48) | Front-wheel drive |
| xDrive35i (E84) | 2013–2015 | 3.0L turbo inline-six (N55) | All-wheel drive |
| xDrive28i (E84) | 2013–2015 | 2.0L turbo four (N20) | All-wheel drive |
| sDrive28i (E84) | 2013–2015 | 2.0L turbo four (N20) | Rear-wheel drive |
The electric iX1 is not sold in the US. Options such as the M Sport package are not part of the VIN. See “Options and window sticker” below.
How to read a BMW X1 VIN
Every X1 has a 17-character VIN. Here is an example:
WBX 73EF0 6 P 5 123456
Example VIN for illustration only.
| Characters | In this VIN | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 · WMI | WBX | BMW AG, Germany, for SUVs (multipurpose passenger vehicles). The 2013–2015 X1 starts with WBA. |
| 4–7 · Model type code | 73EF | BMW’s type code. It identifies the exact model and drivetrain, for example sDrive28i vs xDrive28i. |
| 8 · Vehicle code | 0 | Additional vehicle information such as the restraint system. |
| 9 · Check digit | 6 | A calculated value that confirms the VIN is valid. It can be a number from 0 to 9 or the letter X. |
| 10 · Model year | P | The model year: P is 2023. |
| 11 · Plant code | 5 | The BMW assembly plant. |
| 12–17 · Serial number | 123456 | The unique production number of that vehicle. |
X1 WMI codes and plants
| WMI | Built by | Which X1 |
|---|---|---|
WBX | BMW AG (SUV) | 2016–2022 F48 and 2023-and-newer U11, built in Germany. The current X1 is built at BMW’s Regensburg plant. |
WBA | BMW AG | 2013–2015 E84, built at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany. |
Source: NHTSA vPIC (WBX = BMW AG, multipurpose passenger vehicle).
BMW X1 model year codes
The 10th character shows the model year. Codes for every X1 sold in the US:
| Code | Year | Code | Year | Code | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
D | 2013 | H | 2017 | N | 2022 |
E | 2014 | J | 2018 | P | 2023 |
F | 2015 | K · L | 2019 · 2020 | R · S | 2024 · 2025 |
G | 2016 | M | 2021 | T | 2026 |
BMW X1 recalls
Recalls are issued for specific VINs, so two X1 of the same year can have different results. Repairs for safety recalls are free at any BMW center, even if you are not the first owner. Important X1 campaigns include:
- Integrated brake system (2024–2026): several recalls cover 2023–2024 X1 because the integrated braking system can lose power brake assist or affect ABS and stability control. This is the most important item to check on a newer X1.
- Driver airbag (2023): some 2022–2023 xDrive28i were recalled because the driver’s front airbag may not deploy as intended.
- Seat belts and B-pillar (2023–2025): some 2023 and 2025–2026 X1 were recalled for rear or front seat belt issues, and some 2025 X1 for weak B-pillar reinforcements.
- Electric water pump (2024): 2013–2015 X1 with the 2.0L engine were recalled because a poorly sealed water pump connector can short-circuit if water gets in, increasing the risk of fire.
Enter the VIN above to see every recall on record for that exact vehicle and whether it is still open.
Common BMW X1 problems by generation
These are issues that owners and independent mechanics often report. They don’t affect every X1, but they are worth checking on a used one:
| Generation | Often reported | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| U11 (2023–) | Brake system recalls and software updates on early vehicles | All brake recalls completed, warning lights off, infotainment working |
| F48 (2016–2022) | Oil and coolant leaks with age; worn run-flat tires | Leaks, tire condition and age, service history |
| E84 (2013–2015) | Timing chain wear on the N20 four (28i); oil filter housing and valve cover gasket leaks; water pump failure | Timing chain and water pump records, oil leaks, water pump recall done |
How to verify an M35i or xDrive
The M35i and xDrive versions cost more, and the outside differences are small. To check:
- Decode the VIN and read the model name and engine it returns.
- Compare them with the badge and the seller’s listing.
- Check the drivetrain: an xDrive X1 will show all-wheel drive in the decode.
- If the VIN says xDrive28i but the X1 is badged M35i, it is not that model.
Where to find the VIN on a BMW X1
- Dashboard: on the driver’s side, visible through the lower windshield.
- Driver’s door pillar: on the label on the B-pillar when the door is open.
- Under the hood: also stamped in the engine bay on many models.
- Documents: title, registration and insurance card.
Buying a used BMW X1: checklist
- The VIN on the dashboard, door pillar and title all match.
- The model, engine and drivetrain from the VIN match the badge and the listing.
- No open safety recalls, especially the brake system recalls on 2023–2024 models.
- No salvage, flood or rebuilt title brand, and odometer readings that go up steadily.
- Service records, including oil changes at the recommended interval.
- On a 2013–2015 X1 28i, ask about the timing chain and the water pump recall.
- Check the tires: many X1 use run-flat tires, which cost more to replace.
- Check what is left of the factory warranty or BMW Certified Pre-Owned coverage.
- A pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist.
Before you buy, run a full vehicle history check to see title brands, accidents, odometer readings and past sales, or see a sample report.
Options and window sticker
The VIN shows the model, engine, drivetrain, plant and year. Factory options such as the M Sport package, Premium Package, driver-assistance packages or paint color are stored in BMW’s build record, not in the VIN. A BMW center can look them up by VIN.
BMW X1 VIN FAQs
Where is the VIN on a BMW X1?
On the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield, and on the label on the driver’s door pillar. It is also on the title, registration and insurance card.
What does a BMW X1 VIN start with?
2016 and newer X1 start with WBX, BMW’s code for SUVs built in Germany. The 2013–2015 X1 starts with WBA.
How do I know which X1 generation I have?
Check the model year (10th character). 2023 and newer is the U11, 2016–2022 is the F48 and 2013–2015 is the E84.
Is the BMW X1 sDrive front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive?
It depends on the year. The 2013–2015 sDrive28i is rear-wheel drive. The 2016–2022 sDrive28i is front-wheel drive. Since 2023, the US X1 is only sold with xDrive all-wheel drive.
Does my BMW X1 have an open recall?
Enter the VIN at the top of this page. We check NHTSA records and show any recall that applies to that exact vehicle.
Is the BMW iX1 sold in the US?
No. The electric iX1 is sold in other markets, but US X1 models are gas-powered.
Is the BMW X1 VIN decoder free?
Yes. Decoding the specs and checking recalls is free with no sign-up. A full vehicle history report is a separate paid option.
Other BMW models
See all codes in the BMW VIN decoder.
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Sources: NHTSA (VIN standards, WMI codes and recalls) and BMW model information. Recall data updated October 8, 2026. HistoryByVIN is not affiliated with BMW. BMW and the BMW logo are trademarks of their owner.