Used BMW i3

What to know before buying: BMW i3

From 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The I01 generation ran from 2013 to 2022 with 60, 94 and 120Ah batteries; REx versions were also offered.[1]one sourceI01
• No systemic motor or reduction-gear fault is reported, but operation, noise and stored errors warrant checking at very high mileage.[1]one sourceI01
• A drivetrain warning is not a diagnosis by itself: possible sources include the battery, motor, control system, sensors or related circuits.[3]one sourceI01
• The owner Q&A archive includes BMW i3 model years from 2014 through 2022, including EVs and a 0.6-litre REx version.[2]one source

Typical faults

• On 2018–2021 cars, a manufacturing defect in cell-module electrode material can cause HV-battery malfunction and create a fire risk.[1]one sourceI01

  2018–2021 · EV, REx

• On 2013–2016 REx cars, an incorrectly routed fuel-tank vent pipe can leak, allowing fuel vapour into the engine bay and creating a fire risk.[1]one sourceI01

  2013–2016 · REx

• On 2015 cars, faulty drive electronics can produce excessive regenerative-braking torque and lead to a critical driving situation.[1]one sourceI01

  2015–2015 · EV, REx

• Battery ageing, improper charging and excessive discharge are cited as possible causes of battery and drivetrain faults.[3]one sourceI01

  EV, REx

• On 2021–2022 cars, automatic door locking when driving away may fail after replacement of the Body Domain Controller.[1]one sourceI01

  2021–2022 · EV, REx

Which engine and version to take

• For a simpler layout, consider a 60, 94 or 120Ah pure EV: the source lists no known family problems for them, while REx adds a combustion engine plus fuel and exhaust systems.[1]one sourceI01

What to check at the inspection

• Establish the high-voltage battery's SoH and test charging; the source identifies both as key pre-purchase checks.[1]one sourceI01
• Diagnose the 12V system and scan stored faults, as the source lists 12V errors among the buyer's principal checks.[1]one sourceI01
• On a REx car, check the oil-change history, exhaust and condition of the fuel system.[1]one sourceI01
• At 200,000–300,000km and beyond, assess motor and reduction-gear operation and noise, and scan for stored errors.[1]one sourceI01
• Have an authorised workshop check all open and completed recall campaigns by VIN; model year alone does not confirm that a particular car is affected.[1]one sourceI01

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]autoradars.lv — BMW I3 I01 (2013 - 2022): problems and risks - AutoRadars.lv · press
2. [2]drom.ru — BMW i3 вопросы, ответы и жалобы владельцев · press
3. [3]bitauto.com — Основные причины возникновения проблем с системе ... · press

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