BMW X6 Best and Worst Years (Top Picks!)

Since 2008, the BMW X6 luxury crossover SUV has been manufactured. This vehicle has undergone numerous modifications and improvements over the years, making it a well-liked option among auto aficionados. 

Using data and real-world examples, this article will examine the top and bottom BMW X6 years. 

To offer you a thorough picture of the advantages and disadvantages of this car throughout its manufacturing history, we will be looking at elements like performance, dependability, and customer feedback. 

VIDEO: The All New BMW X6

BMW X6 Best and Worst Years

The BMW X6 has had two generations, the first (E71) from 2008 to 2014 and the second (F16 and G06) from 2015 to the present, according to Motorsandmanstuff.com. The best and worst years for the BMW X6 are challenging to determine. When choosing a vehicle, it’s crucial to put dependability and safety first. A BMW X4, similar to the X6, can live longer with routine care, such as waxing the car twice a year, claims EnginePatrol.com. According to VehicleHistory.com, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 BMW X3 a 5-star overall safety rating, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a “Good” grade. Nevertheless, the 2020 BMW X3 has been the subject of ten formal recalls, one of which concerned battery debris that might ignite an electrical fire. To ensure the dependability and safety of a BMW X6, it’s critical to stay informed about any official recalls or safety concerns and perform regular maintenance and any required repairs.

Which Years of the BMW X6 Are the Most Reliable?

A general assessment of the BMW X6’s reliability throughout its manufacture is challenging. However, broad patterns in the reliability of several BMW X6 model years may be seen.

Let’s examine some of the most dependable model years below. 

2016 BMW X6

A luxury crossover SUV that customers favorably received upon release is the 2016 BMW X6. 

Reviews of this model year’s customer satisfaction often highlight its svelte look, potent engine, and cozy inside. 

Many also praise the X6’s agile steering and lively handling, which make it a joy to drive.

Consumer Reports and J.D Power have given the 2016 BMW X6 an above-average reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5. This model year is relatively reliable and has fewer reported issues than older models.

Owners most frequently report the infotainment system and the automatic transmission faults. These problems are not pervasive, though, and are minor.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not evaluated the X6.

Although there are several driver-assistance technologies, no published accident test results exist. 

Nevertheless, all variants of the SUV come with front and back parking sensors, and the rearview camera offers a great view of what is behind the vehicle.

Additional driver-assist options from the BMW Assistance Plus Package may be purchased for a fee. These qualities consist of the following:

• Blind-spot observation
• Warning for lane deviation
• Ahead of crash caution (with pedestrian detection)
• Emergency braking on demand

The 2016 BMW X6 includes a standard 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and 4-year/50,000-mile free regular maintenance, which may allay dependability worries.

It’s also crucial to remember that BMW has not issued any recalls for this particular model. This simplifies the purchasing process and draws attention to the model year’s superior reliability rating.

Overall, trustworthy customer satisfaction ratings are provided for the 2016 BMW X6. 

But before making a purchase, it is crucial to look into a particular car’s maintenance history and have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.

2017 BMW X6

The 2017 BMW X6 luxury crossover SUV received positive customer reviews for its sporty handling, robust engine options, and sumptuous interior. 

For its dynamic driving style and nimble handling, which make it enjoyable to drive for all automobile aficionados, the X6 garnered excellent ratings from critics.

The 2017 X6 garnered excellent marks for its opulent interior and cutting-edge technologies. The X6 includes numerous cutting-edge driver assistance technologies as standard equipment, including:

• Warning for lane deviation
• Emergency braking on demand
• an afterimage camera

However, some reviews noted that the 2017 X6’s luggage capacity is less than that of rivals in its class and that headroom in the back seats is restricted.

In terms of dependability, the 2017 BMW X6 received generally positive evaluations. The 2017 X6 received an above-average reliability rating of four out of five from Consumer Reports and J.D Power. 

The group also noted that 2017 X6 owners had reported fewer problems than owners of earlier models.

The X6 still needs to undergo crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, just like the 2016 model. But there are other safety features available.

The 2017 BMW X6 offers the driving experience one would anticipate from a BMW, although it could be more effective at moving passengers and cargo. The interior of this BMW is beautiful, though, and it is expected to be more dependable than average.

In conclusion, people enjoy the 2017 BMW X6 for its sporty driving characteristics and opulent cabin. 

Compared to prior versions, it also enjoys a solid reputation for dependability and has fewer owner-reported issues.

It’s essential to keep in mind, meanwhile, that the cargo space is smaller than that of other cars in its class and that headroom in the back seats is constrained.

Which BMW X6 models ought to be avoided?

When buying a secondhand car, knowing which model years to avoid will help you make a wise choice. In addition, it can assist you in determining which vehicles have a history of being more reliable and which are more prone to experience issues. 

Even though the BMW X6 is generally regarded as a high-quality car, some model years have more reliability issues than others, and more faults have been reported. 

The BMW X6 years you should avoid are covered in more detail in this section.

2009 BMW X6

The 2009 BMW X6 is a high-end crossover SUV that combines a coupe and an SUV since it has a coupe-like, athletic look as well as the functionality and adaptability of an SUV.

Consumers had conflicting feelings about the X6 when it was initially introduced. 

Others criticized it for being overly pricey and lacking practicality, while some commended its distinctive style and remarkable performance.

The X6 was one of the most costly SUVs initially introduced. Therefore, one of the primary criticisms of the 2009 X6 was its excessive price. 

At the time of its release, it was one of the most expensive SUVs on the market, which made it unattainable to many consumers.

Furthermore, some questioned the need for a cargo room, claiming that the athletic appearance and sloping roofline lost some practicality.

Despite these critiques, many consumers were lured to the X6’s distinctive look and firm performance.

 The X6 was available with various engines, including a powerful V8 with quick acceleration and smooth handling. 

Without a doubt, there are positives about this model year. However, the vehicle can be considered outdated and has received over ten recalls, about the following:

• Airbags
• Engine and engine cooling
• Fuel system
• Brakes

Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, while others have reported problems with the electrical system. 

Additionally, a handful of owners have reported issues with the suspension and steering. 

Overall, consumers have primarily varied opinions on the 2009 BMW X6. While some questioned its exorbitant cost and lack of utility, others praised its distinctive design and outstanding performance. 

However, some users have noted that there have been a few dependability problems with the X6, which is likely associated with its age. 

BMW has a solid reputation for manufacturing reliable vehicles, and the X6 is no different. Nevertheless, before buying any car, it’s crucial to research any known problems.

2011 BMW X6

The 2011 BMW X6 is a high-end crossover SUV with a negative reputation for dependability. 

The engine, fuel system, and electrical difficulties are just a few of the troubles associated with this particular model year.

Several owners have also encountered difficulties with the 2011 X6, citing concerns with the water pump, oil leaks, and turbocharger malfunction.

A potential fuel pump issue was the subject of one of the biggest recalls for the 2011 BMW X6.

During one of the 12 recalls, over 20,000 vehicles were recalled because of a flaw that increased the chance of an accident by causing the engine to stall. 

Although BMW launched a recall to rectify the fault, it serves as a warning of the possible problems that can develop with this model year.

That said, it’s no surprise that the 2011 BMW X6 m competition reviews based on customer satisfaction needed to be more consistent.

While some critics complimented the X6 for its sporty performance and potent engine choices, others condemned its lackluster reliability and reported issues.

Numerous owners criticized how often their vehicles broke down, how costly the repairs were, and how frequently they needed to see the mechanic.

Some even claimed the car spent more time being repaired than on the road.

At approximately 70,000 miles on the clock, there have been reports of an overheating engine and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System light that continues to be illuminated, indicating that the tire pressure may be too insufficient for safe driving.

It is advised against purchasing the 2011 BMW X6 m50i due to this issue alone because it could provide a risk.

While it’s vital to remember that only some cars from that year will have a comparable experience, it is always advised to carefully investigate a specific car’s history and check it out by a qualified mechanic before committing to a purchase. 

To minimize wear and tear, it’s also crucial to maintain your car and have regular maintenance performed on it.

Ultimately, the 2011 BMW X6 has received the most grievances of any previous model year, which is why it is on this list.

What Are Some Typical Problems With the BMW X6 Models?

The BMW X6 is a mid-size luxury SUV that stands out from its rivals owing to its excellent cabin and attractive design. 

Additionally, the BMW X6 is more straightforward to operate than other vehicles in this segment and delivers performance at a top level.

But what are a few of the BMW X6’s typical issues along with other BMW model?

While it is generally considered a high-quality vehicle, there are a few common issues that owners and mechanics have reported. 

Some of the most typical common issue/common problems with the BMW X6 include the following:

• Diesel engine issues
• Loose tailgate spoiler
• Rattling doors
• Broken Isofix Mounting Point
• Loss of brake power
• Battery problems

How Safe Is BMW X6?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 BMW X5 four out of five stars for overall safety and four out of five ratings for the front driver and passenger side in frontal crash tests, according to MotorBiscuit.com. Additionally, the X5 has airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control built into its design.

However, there is little information on the safety of various BMW X6 model years in circulation. Therefore, prioritizing safety with impressive performance and dependability is crucial when choosing a car. According to VehicleHistory.com, the NHTSA awarded the 2020 BMW X3 a 5-star overall safety rating, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it a “Good” grade. (IIHS).

Additionally, it’s critical to be informed about any formal recalls or safety issues. For instance, the 2020 BMW X3 has seen ten official recalls, one of which was because of battery debris that might ignite an electrical fire.

As a result, BMW X6 owners may contribute to ensuring their and their passengers’ safety by prioritizing safety and keeping abreast of any official recalls or safety concerns.

Reliability of BMW X6

The BMW X6 has a long-term quality rating of 9.6 out of 100, which is lower than the average rating of 43 for all makes and models, according to WithClutch.com. It’s crucial to remember that this ranking compares all cars, not just those with the same body style or class trim of BMW cars.

According to VehicleHistory.com, the BMW X3, which resembles the X6 in some ways, has seen ten official recalls for the 2020 model year, one of which was because of battery debris that might start an electrical fire.

To ensure the dependability and safety of a BMW X6, it’s critical to stay informed about any official recalls or safety concerns and perform regular maintenance and any required repairs.

Based on the lifespan of other vehicles in BMW’s SUV series, EnginePatrol.com estimates that the BMW X4, comparable to the X6, will have a reasonable lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles. When choosing a car, it is advised to put dependability and safety first and to keep abreast of any official recalls or safety issues.

How To Find The Best Deals on BMW X6?

To find the best deals on a BMW X6, comparing lease deals, prices, and incentives from different dealers is recommended. For the 2022 BMW X4 and 2022 BMW X3 models, information on incentives and rebates is available on Edmunds.com.

For comparison purposes, U.S. News Best Cars give details on lease offers, sticker costs, and incentives for the 2023 BMW X3.

Additionally, it is advised to prioritize dependability and safety when choosing any car, stay informed about any official recalls, and pay attention to any safety concerns. The BMW X6 has a long-term quality rating of 9.6 out of 100, which is lower than the average rating of 43 for all makes and models, according to WithClutch.com.

CustomersTherefore, customers can get the most terrific deal on a BMW X6 by comparing the available offers and considering the vehicle’s dependability and safety.

Additionally, it is advised to search internet discussion boards like BimmerFest BMW Forum for advice from current BMW X6 owners.

Tips for Maintaining your BMW X6

It’s critical to perform routine maintenance and required repairs on a BMW X6. Regular maintenance procedures, such as changing the air and oil filters, can help the car last longer.

At the absolute least, oil and air filters must be replaced every 15,000 miles, according to FourWheelTrends.com. Prioritizing safety and dependability is also crucial, as is keeping abreast of any official recalls or security issues. For example, the 2020 BMW X3 has had ten formal recalls, according to VehicleHistory.com, one of which concerned battery debris that might ignite an electrical fire.

Therefore, it is advised to steer clear of the worst years and consider the most recent generations of vehicles, such as the G06 model from 2019, which has won praise for its handling and road performance, according to VehicleHistory.com.

A BMW X6’s life can be prolonged, and its dependability is ensured by performing routine maintenance, exercising caution when driving, and being informed of any official recalls or safety issues.

Additionally, advice from current BMW owners can be found on online communities like BimmerFest BMW Forum.

How Can You Tell Whether Something Is a Lemon?

Purchase a vehicle history report.

There is no better initial step when purchasing a used car than to obtain a car history report. Two well-known services offer this information for little money: Anyone looking to purchase a used car will find the information provided by CarFax and AutoCheck extremely helpful.

The reports let you know the number of past owners, whether or not it had any accidents, how frequently it required maintenance, and the current title.

The final section is among the most crucial since it contains the lemon label, which attests that the car followed the correct legal procedures to be designated as a lemon.

However, in some areas, dealers must inform a customer if the vehicle is a manufacturer buyback, which is a reliable way to determine whether a vehicle has a lemon title.

However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to conduct a thorough investigation into the vehicle’s history. Therefore, consumers may need help if they accidentally purchase a secondhand lemon because they must inspect it first.

Owner Background

You can view the owner’s history on the vehicle history report, which should indicate whether the manufacturer has purchased the vehicle back.

While owners can claim a car is a lemon in a legal dispute and ask the automaker to buy back the problematic vehicle, that is a guaranteed technique to determine if the car was labeled a lemon.

You can also determine if the vehicle was sold or traded before it was given a lemon tag if the prior owner may have missed an issue. It also implies that the car’s persistent issue must be apparent.

Repair Record

Look carefully at the vehicle’s repair record and try to identify any recurring issues. Recurring problems in cars with lemon histories are simple to spot.

You can determine whether the issues with the car are minor wear and tear concerns, such as those with the clutch or brakes, or a more severe problem.

Check to discover if the repairs were necessary or carried out even when the car was brand new. It can assist in determining whether the car is a lemon or if an incident like a collision or modification caused a misdiagnosed issue.

Are the repairs significant or minor? A severe repair would deal with the drivetrain or suspension, whereas a superficial one would address non-driving-related issues like window or seat controls. Severe repairs would be more challenging, but handling a car might not be a hassle if a car was considered a lemon for a less severe cause.

The report also shows whether repairs are being made at a dealership or a general shop. Like you would with any used car, examine the vehicle’s general condition and health and determine whether routine maintenance has also been carried out.

This will assist you in deciding whether or not you should consider purchasing this car.

Inspection before purchase

Is the car still a good investment? You should get a pre-purchase inspection if the flaws are not too concerning or if you believe the automobile may have been incorrectly labeled as a lemon.

A mechanic can determine whether the problems are repairable and why the car was considered a lemon.

A technician can assist you in determining whether or not a recurring issue is indicative of more severe problems or worries about the quality of the vehicle.

Their satisfaction with the car might help determine if it is a worthwhile investment or a lost cause.

BMW X6 FAQ’s

What year is ideal for an X6?

Our top choice for the most affordable X6 model year is the 2022 BMW X6. With the 2022, you would only pay, on average, 100% of the cost when the car was brand-new, and 100% of its useful life would still be left. The X6 is also appealing in the 2021 and 2020 model years, and both offer a respectable value.

Is the BMW X6 a trustworthy vehicle?

The projected reliability rating for the 2023 BMW X6 is 83 out of 100. A predicted reliability score from J.D. Power of 91 to 100 is regarded as the best, 81 to 90 as great, 70 to 80 as medium, and 0-69 as fair and below average.

Does the BMW X6 have issues?

issues with diesel engines

The swirl flap, a component on the BMW X6 with a diesel engine, is prone to failing. This component’s failure could result in metal particles entering the engine, which could have major repercussions and perhaps necessitate the purchase of a new engine.

Which BMW X6 engine is the best?

Results for the BMW X6’s Best and Worst Years

Which BMW X6 model and engine is the best option? You don’t need anything more than the base xDrive30d diesel engine because the BMW X6 is so superb. It has more than enough power (286PS), and even this model can reach 62 mph in 6.1 seconds.

Is the upkeep of a BMW X6 expensive?

How often does a BMW X6 need to be serviced? The annual maintenance expenditures for the BMW X6 come to $1,206.