2016 Bmw I3 problems
The BMW i3 is an electric car that was manufactured by German marque BMW from 2013 to 2022. The i3 was BMW's first mass-produced zero emissions vehicle and was launched as part of BMW's electric vehicle BMW i sub-brand. It is a B-segment, high-roof hatchback with an electric powertrain. It uses rear-wheel drive via a single-speed transmission and an underfloor lithium-ion battery pack with an optional range-extending petrol engine.
Styled by Richard Kim, the i3 is a five-door with a passenger module of high strength, ultra-lightweight carbon fibre reinforced polymer adhered to an aluminium chassis, battery, drive system and powertrain. The body features two clamshell rear-hinged rear doors.
The i3 debuted as a concept at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, and production began in September 2013 in Leipzig.
It ranked third amongst electric cars sold worldwide from 2014 to 2016. Its global sales totaled 250,000 units by the end of 2022. Germany was its biggest market with over 47,500 units delivered through December 2021, followed by the U.S. with over 45,000.
The i3 won two World Car of the Year Awards, selected as 2014 World Green Car of the Year and as 2014 World Car Design of the Year. The i3 received an iF Product Design Gold Award, and won UK Car of the Year 2014 and Best Supermini of 2014 in the first UK Car of the Year Awards.
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Common 2016 Bmw I3 problems
The BMW i3, introduced in 2013, is an innovative vehicle that has received both love and criticism from the public. Despite its polarizing opinions, the i3 has some common problems that owners have reported
. Here are the most frequently mentioned issues, along with their details:
- 12 Volt Battery: The most common problem across the BMW i3 range is the 12-volt battery, which tends to fail prematurely every 3 years. This issue has been reported by many owners, with some experiencing battery failure even before reaching 50,000 miles. It is recommended to replace the battery before it fails completely to avoid being stranded with a car that won't turn on .
- Motor Mount Failure: The motor mounts on the BMW i3 can fail, causing a vibration or shaking sensation while driving. This issue is more common in higher mileage vehicles and can lead to a more significant problem if left unaddressed .
- Suspension Issues: Suspension problems have been reported by some BMW i3 owners, with issues such as clunking noises and uneven tire wear. These problems can be caused by worn-out suspension components, which should be replaced to ensure safe and comfortable driving .
- AC Compressor: The air conditioning compressor can fail on the BMW i3, leading to reduced cooling performance or complete AC failure. This issue can be costly to repair, as it requires replacing the compressor and potentially other related components .
- Washer Fluid Pump: The washer fluid pump can fail on the BMW i3, causing the windshield wipers to stop working. This issue can be inconvenient and potentially dangerous, as it can impair visibility during driving .
- Failed Driver Heated Seat: Some BMW i3 owners have reported issues with the driver's heated seat, which can fail to heat up or stop working altogether. This issue can be caused by a faulty heating element or wiring, and it may require replacing the seat heater or related components .
- Flickering HVAC LEDs: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) LEDs can flicker on the BMW i3, indicating a problem with the HVAC system. This issue can be caused by a faulty control module or wiring, and it may require replacing the affected components to resolve the problem .
- Charge Port Door Solenoid: The charge port door solenoid can fail on the BMW i3, causing the charge port door to not open or close properly. This issue can be caused by a faulty solenoid or wiring, and it may require replacing the affected components to resolve the problem .
- Airbags: Some BMW i3 owners have reported issues with the airbags, which can deploy unexpectedly or not deploy in a crash. This issue can be caused by a faulty airbag control module or wiring, and it may require replacing the affected components to ensure safe driving .
- KLE and EME Modules: The KLE and EME modules, which control various functions on the BMW i3, can fail and cause various issues. These modules can be costly to replace, and it is recommended to have them checked and repaired by a qualified technician if issues arise .
- Poor Interior Quality: Some BMW i3 owners have reported issues with the interior quality, such as rattling noises, squeaky materials, and poor fit and finish. These issues can be caused by low-quality materials or poor assembly, and they may require replacing the affected components or having them repaired by a qualified technician .
- Rubber Parts: The rubber parts on the BMW i3, such as the antenna and door seals, can degrade and crack over time. This issue can be caused by exposure to the elements and UV radiation, and it may require replacing the affected parts to ensure proper function and appearance .
- Door Handle: The door handle on the BMW i3 can become difficult to operate or fail altogether. This issue can be caused by a faulty latch or wiring, and it may require replacing the affected components to ensure proper function .
- Delaminating Roof: Some BMW i3 owners have reported issues with the roof, which can delaminate and peel away. This issue can be caused by exposure to the elements and UV radiation, and it may require replacing the affected parts to ensure proper appearance and function .
- BMW REx Specific Problems: The BMW i3 REx, which is the range-extender version of the i3, has some specific problems. These issues include fuel door problems, where the fuel door can become difficult to open or close, and range extender specific issues, such as fuel system problems and engine failures .
In summary, the BMW i3 has some common problems that owners have reported, including issues with the 12-volt battery, motor mounts, suspension, AC compressor, washer fluid pump, heated seats, HVAC LEDs, charge port door solenoid, airbags, KLE and EME modules, interior quality, rubber parts, door handle, delaminating roof, and BMW REx specific problems. These issues can be costly to repair and may require replacement of affected components or having them repaired by a qualified technician.
What are the issues with the BMW i3?
The BMW i3 was the brand's first foray into the pure electric world, and it's proving a fairly dependable option. According to our survey, 21% of i3s had a fault, but two thirds of issues were fixed in less than a week. The main problem areas were the bodywork, non-motor electrics and suspension.
How many years does a BMW i3 battery last?
All of the i3's battery options have an estimated 15-year lifespan ( longer than most people own a single car), but that doesn't take into account detrimental charging and driving habits that can tax an EV battery pack's charge capabilities.
How many miles can a 2016 BMW i3 go?
Range is estimated at up to 81 miles per battery charge, but like any electric car, the i3 is highly sensitive to changes in terrain, driving style and even ambient temperature. The special i3 REX (for Range Extender) model includes the aforementioned gasoline generator, stretching total range to 150 miles.
Why has BMW stopped making the i3?
A BMW UK spokesman explained to Autocar that BMW's expanding EV range was a factor in the decision to take the i3 off sale: "By the end of this year the BMW Group will have six BEV models on the market, with that number growing to 13 in 2023.
2016 Bmw I3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw I3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Bmw I3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2016 Bmw I3
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Bmw I3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2016 Bmw I3 vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- VIN: WBY1Z4C59GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Roof panel is deteriorating and loosing integrity. Outer laminate coat broke down in general sun conditions, and now underlying roof structure is breaking down as well. The dealer has not inspected the roof yet, but this is an issue widely discussed on community forums, and it’s breaking down on my vehicle now.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- VIN: WBY1Z2C56GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The roof is bubbling and peeling up. Water gets in it when it rains, then it bubbles greatly. BMW won’t fix it, repair shops don’t want to fix it because it’s an obscure roof. They recommend I take it to BMW which won’t fix it (roof replacement suggested). I just bought this car and drive it as normal, and the special carbon fiber roof is degrading too fast.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: WBY1Z4C54GV
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The carbon fiber roof of my 2016 BMW i3 REx is really starting to bubble and wrinkle. After taking it to two shops any mitigation would cost hundreds of dollars to address. The roof is starting to peel and am worried about water getting to the car. BMW should have engineered these roofs differently. They should be responsible to cost associated with fixing them.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
- VIN: WBY1Z4C59GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Roof peeling
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
- VIN: WBY1Z4C59GV
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery degradation
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- VIN: WBY1Z2C52GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The roof on outside is starting to flake off in chunks and expose bottom layers.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-17
- VIN: WBY1Z4C55GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the contact heard a whistling sound, and the roof detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 19,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: WBY1Z4C53GV
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: My bmw i3 has a faulty wiring harness or some other defect that is causing my car to turn off the airbag system. This is a chronic issue with bmw i3’s. Either the wiring harness is bad or the airbag becomes too stiff and the car deactivated the entire airbag system. Dangerous!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-03
- VIN: WBY1Z4C53GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My carbon fiber composite roof is delaminating and separating. There is a risk that the degradation of the roof will become so bad that it will separate off my car while driving and may hit another car. This is a common problem with bmw i3 roofs. It is crazy that the entire roof panel can structurally fail but because it isn’t steel/rust bmw isn’t worried about it.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-17
- VIN: WBY1Z4C54GV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Loses power "without warning"; actually, when the REX turns on it automatically mentions that power "could be" lost when the REX turns on. However, that is very understated. In fact, there is nowhere in the owner's manual that raises this issue; doesn't even mention that there could or would be a "warning" if battery is low and REX is being used. Bottom line: The REX cannot keep up with driving. Please refer to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmn58reGv8k The above is identical to my experience. Especially VERY DANGEROUS when on the interstate highway. I was looking for an exit so that the battery might recharge a bit because I could only go 25-35 mph. Seems like the REX is warming up and not outputting standard power, as expected... It might be that the problem is that the computer is not calculating the correct state of charge and therefore not giving the REX enough time to complete its warm-up cycle.? Or it should kick in earlier than single digit battery strength left. I started recording at 9% SoC and I was expecting this power loss. I found a safe(r) road to do this on with minimal traffic. Fast Forward to 2:59 to see the power-loss happen. The first time this happened I was on the highway, that was not fun. To quote another driver with the same issue (see YouTube earlier), "Power-loss due to low charge should be gradual and with a warning, not this sudden. This makes for a dangerous situation if I'm on the highway or hill. I know that enabling 'hold state of charge' before 7.5% is a 'manual workaround' but that is NOT a fix. HSOC is not even an option on the REX in the USA - you have to unhide the menu via a coding change."
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-16
- VIN: WBY1Z4C58GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. Additionally, the contact stated that after making a turn, the steering wheel failed to properly return to center. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic however, the cause of the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-12
- VIN: WBY1Z4C52GV
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated that the driver restraint warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer, and the contact was informed that the front driver’s side air bag system was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 57,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBY1Z4C54GV
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Involved in a frontal collision and air bag did not deploy. Airbag could've prevented more serious injuries suffered. I contacted the service center at BMW Roseville and left a message for the service manager, no return call. The vehicle has been inspected by an insurance authorized collision center and is considered totaled. There were no warning there was a problem and didn't appear until the collision happened and it didn't deploy.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-28
- VIN: WBY1Z4C56GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Previously reported a steering incident no. 11438343. Dealer indidicated that there was a "bug in the software" and that the car would be entitled to a one time fix under extended warranty. Dealership worked on the issue and completed the warranty repair on 11/28/2021 and I picked up the vehicle. Upon starting the car, the steering felt "different". I turned right to exit the dealership and tried to straighten the car but the steering turned full left and I crossed into the opposite lane of traffic. I stopped, turned the wheel to center, let it go and it turned full left on its own. I shut the car off, restarted and steering was normal. Drove back to the dealership for them to complete the repair. Dealership reported that this has occurred once for them but they cannot get it to repeat so they are going to keep the car for a few days. I am concerned that they will consider this an out of warranty repair because they were clear that they would offer a "one time fix" for the known issue.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-27
- VIN: WBY1Z4C56GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Vehicle experiences periodic loss of "power steering". Very difficult to steer or control. Steering does not re-center making control difficult. Steering is restored after shutting down the car for a few minutes. Dealership cannot find any faults or codes.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-23
- VIN: WBY1Z2C55GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING FAILURE WHILE IN MOTION - OPERATING THE VEHICLE ON PUBLIC ROADWAY - MAKING IT DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS TO NAVIGATE A TURN. NO WARNING LIGHTS APPEARED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-21
- VIN: WBY1Z4C55GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: EVERY 3 TO 21 DAYS, MY STEERING PULLS HARD TO THE LEFT. THIS OCCURS ON FLAT ROADS ON DRY PAVEMENT. I HAVE TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL HARD TO THE RIGHT TO KEEP THE VEHICLE GOING STRAIGHT AT CITY DRIVING SPEEDS (0-35 MPH). ON ONE OCCASION THIS OCCURRED WHILE ON THE FREEWAY DRIVING AT 70 MPH. TIRE PRESSURES ARE ALL WITHIN SPEC AND TIRES ARE IN GREAT SHAPE. AFTER STOPPING AND RESTARTING THE CAR, IT SOMETIMES WILL GO AWAY. IN LOOKING AT THE BMW RECALLS AND TECHNICAL NOTES, THEY HAVE NO SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM AND CALL IT A SOFTWARE ISSUE. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME AT LEAST 6 TIMES.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WBY1Z4C52GV
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ON A FREEWAY DRIVING AROUND 65MPH FRONT CAR CAME TO SUDDEN STOP SO APPLIED BRAKES AT FULL STRENGTH BUT CAR CONTINUED AT THE SAME SPEED FOR FEW SECONDS AND THEN BRAKES TOOK EFFECT BUT IT WAS TOO LATE BY THEN. THERE SEEMS TO BE SOME SORT OF LAG BETWEEN WHEN BRAKE PEDAL PRESSED AND ACTUALLY BREAKS GET APPLIED TO SLOW DOWN VEHICLE. ALL 4 TIRES ARE NEW AND SERVICING DONE 4 MONTHS BACK. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-04
- VIN: WBY1Z2C55GV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: STARTED THE CAR AFTER CHARGING IT OVERNIGHT AND "DRIVETRAIN: STOP CAREFULLY" AND "TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION" APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD. THE CAR HAS BEEN COMPLETELY FINE BEFORE THIS.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-18
- VIN: WBY1Z4C53GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING BECOMES HEAVY INTERMITTENTLY. SOMETIMES LIKE THERE IS NO STEERING ASSIST. ALSO WHEEL DOES NOT COME BACK TO CENTER AFTER TURNS. TYPICALLY ON COLDER DAYS AND DRIVING AT SLOW SPEED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-24
- VIN: WBY1Z2C55GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING STRAIGHT ON A TWO-LANE PAVED CITY STREET AT ABOUT 30 MPH THE STEERING BECAME HEAVY AND PULLED STRONGLY TO THE LEFT. CLEAR WEATHER, MODERATE TEMPERATURES. I STOPPED THE CAR AFTER A HALF MILE OR SO, SHUT IT OFF COMPLETELY THEN RESTARTED IT. THE PROBLEM WAS GONE. IT HAS NOT YET REAPPEARED. TIRE PRESSURES WERE ON THE LOW SIDE OF NORMAL. NONE WERE ABNORMALLY LOW AND THE TIRES WERE IN GOOD SHAPE. CAUSE IS UNKNOWN. DEALER HAD NO IDEA WHAT HAPPENED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-06
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 BMW I3. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, BOTH WINDOWS ROLLED DOWN, THE POWER STEERING SEIZED, AND THE ENGINE SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND PULLED INTO A FUEL STATION. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BMW NORTHWEST (4011 20TH ST E, TACOMA, WA 98424, (253) 922-8700); HOWEVER, THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE FAILURES. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED A LOANER VEHICLE. AFTER ANOTHER TWO WEEKS, A REGIONAL SERVICE MANAGER FROM THE MANUFACTURER DIAGNOSED THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT A SOFTWARE REPAIR WAS NEEDED, BUT IT WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR POSSIBLY ANOTHER TWO MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND WAS CURRENTLY STILL AT THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. *TR*JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-22
- VIN: WBY1Z2C56GV
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE ROAD SPEED ABOUT 40-50 MPH, STEERING WHEEL SUDDENLY BECAME STIFF AND VERY HARD TO TURN. THE WHEEL DOES NOT WANT TO CENTER. IT HAPPENED RANDOMLY AND CAN'T BE REPRODUCE EASILY. IT HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE PAST W MONTHS. I FEEL IT VERY DANGEROUS WHEN THIS HAPPENED WHILE ON THE ROAD. IT FIXED ITSELF THE NEXT MORNING.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-06
- VIN: WBY1Z4C52GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR HATCH GLASS SHATTERED AT TAIL LIGHTS. 2ND TIME IN LESS THAN A YEAR. GLASS IS NOT REPLACEABLE, SO WHOLE HATCH ASSEMBLY NEEDS TO BE INSTALLED. VERY POOR DESIGN AND WASTEFUL. AROUND 2000.00 TO FIX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-24
- VIN: WBY1Z4C396V
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE "STOP AND GO" CRUISE CONTROL HAS DISENGAGED OVER 100 TIMES AND HAS SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES FOR NO REASON 5 TIMES. I HAVE ALMOST BEEN REAR ENDED TWICE ON THE HIGHWAY. THIS IS NOT SAFE. I HAVE SHOWN BMW OVER 50 PHOTOS AND 3 VIDEOS OF THIS AND THEY FIND EVERY EXCUSE IN THE BOOK. I AM SCARED FOR MY LIFE WHEN USING THIS CRUISE CONTROL. BMW ALSO REFUSES TO TAKE THE CAR BACK.
2016 Bmw I3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2016 Bmw I3.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 BMW i3 electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Unbelted, small adult, drivers may be at a higher risk of neck injury in the event of a frontal crash. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: During a frontal impact, unbelted, small adult, drivers could be at a higher risk of neck injury.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the Driver air bag control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 8, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at the dedicated i3 recall number 1-855-269-3361.
- Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 i3 REx hybrid electric vehicles. The fuel tank vent line may rub against the ribbed wire protection sleeve of the battery positive (B+) cable, creating a hole in the vent line and causing a fuel vapor leak.
- Consequence: A fuel vapor leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel vent line, replacing it as necessary, and install a clip to prevent it from chafing, free of charge. The recall beganApril 3, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Negative 2016 Bmw I3 car reviews
Positive 2016 Bmw I3 car reviews
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My Volt lease was up and unfortunately, I couldn't extend it to wait for the 16 Volt. However, I wanted to stay electric and the BMW i3 was the only other choice with range extending capabilities. As a friendly and very happy Volt owner, I was initially worried about changing. But after having the car for a week and driving a mix of city and freeway at speeds up to 75 mph, I can confidently say that the BMW i3 has many plusses. The acceleration is way faster, the ride is way quieter, and the road feel is better and more solid. The regenerative braking is perfect and the cabin is much roomier and comfortable for tall folks like myself (I'm 6'3). The turning radius is considerably better and the seating/driving position is perfect - higher but not too high. It's easy to get in and out of and has a much better battery range of about 72 miles compared to 38 miles. The regenerative battery charging in city driving is also better and it's able to extend mileage better. The BMW also has a 4-year full maintenance warranty which is a huge plus. I love the 'coast' mode when you just ease off the gas just right and the one-pedal driving is fantastic. The rear seats are also easier to access and the safety features, such as adaptive cruise control with city stop start, are awesome. I haven't seen this on another car. The auto magic parallel parking mode is also a great feature. The traffic nav system is included with the best energy routes based on traffic. The build quality is also better and more solid compared to the Volt, with better switch gear, fit, and finish. However, the ride is still a bit too stiff for my liking, even with the 19' wheels. It's on the border of being the perfect balance. The 20' wheels have a lower profile tire so I'm sure they would make the ride even more stiff, which wouldn't be good. I don't understand why so many car manufacturers keep making such stiff suspensions when most Americans prefer a softer ride. Can't they find the right balance? Some cars do, but a lot don't.The new 2016 Volt is rumored to have a better ride quality than the current model. However, the BMW has some issues with its handling on broken pavement, especially at freeway speeds. The steering is very sensitive, which may take some getting used to. The range extender engine in the BMW is much quieter than the Volt's, but it has a smaller tank, which limits its range. The BMW is a great city car, but if you need to make a lot of trips across town in one day, the Volt's larger tank gives it the range of a regular car. The Volt also has some additional features, such as lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring, which the BMW lacks. The BMW's upgraded Harmon radio is great, but the Volt's radio, even with the high-end Bose upgrade, is just okay. One big difference between the two cars is the location of the charging port. The Volt's is conveniently located in front of the driver's door, while the BMW's is on the passenger side rear of the car, which may require backing into parking spaces. Overall, if you're looking for a friendly city car, the BMW is a great choice, but if you need more range and additional features, the Volt may be a better fit for you.The BMW has a lighted charging port that changes colors, which is pretty cool. Additionally, BMW offers super fast Tesla-like DC charging built in at no extra cost. However, finding a DC charging station can be a challenge. Some of the interior 'eco' materials used on the BMW make it feel a bit weird and cheap, despite being made from recycled materials. Perhaps the Germans can find a way to make recycled materials look nicer and have a softer finish, which would make the car even quieter. In terms of cost, the Volt is $10,000 cheaper for the loaded model, which is a significant difference. However, the Volt has been almost 100% trouble-free in the three years since its release, which is a rare feat for a high-tech car. I give GM high kudos for building such a high-quality car that has not needed to be in the shop. Overall, I'm really enjoying the much quieter ride, super-powerful acceleration, and improved comfort of the Beemer. While the unique styling may not be for everyone, I think it grows on most people. Now, let's see if it is as reliable and trouble-free as the Volt. I certainly hope so, and I'll report back after more driving.
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I'm a car enthusiast and my last car was an E90 BMW 328i. Last year, I test drove two EVs - the Tesla Model 3 and the BMW i3. I was amazed by the immediate torque/acceleration and the sheer quietness of the EVs. I was sold on EVs being fun. However, the cost was a concern. After some research, I found that a 3-4 year old i3 was being sold for about 30% of its sticker price with lowish mileage (20k-50k miles). On average, I was spending about $250/month on gas, but after doing some calculations on my commute and monthly car use, I realized I would be spending about $20/month if I charged the car at home. I traded my 3series for the i3 and I'm so glad I did. The practical hatchback design makes it easy for loading things in and out. The range is enough for my commute and we just use my wife’s car if we need to road trip somewhere. Driving an EV is a lifestyle change and makes you approach your use of a car differently. Some see that as a bad thing - I just see it as an opportunity to use your brain. Sure, the EV infrastructure is lagging in the US, but with a little planning and the use of the PlugShare app, you can find somewhere around you to charge in a pinch.If you're reading this, you're probably a bit like me - a car enthusiast who likes to understand the good and the bad about a car before taking the leap. I would encourage you to go for it!
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I purchased my 2015 i3 Rex with 61K miles for $17K in January 2023, and I've been driving it for four months now. Overall, I find it to be a fun, quirky, and roomy little car with great handling. The seats are very comfortable, and I appreciate the high seating position. Although I usually need lumbar support, which is not available on the i3, the seats still provide adequate support. The build quality is excellent, and even after eight years and 61K miles, there are no squeaks, rattles, or loose parts. The car feels solid and substantial. During the colder months, the battery would show about 50 miles of range, with an additional 50-60 miles with the range extender (Rex). Now that it's warmer, the range is generally in the 70-80 mile range for the battery, and even higher if using one of the more efficient driving modes: EcoPro or EcoPro+. In EcoPro, the speed is limited to 75 mph, and the climate system capability is reduced. In EcoPro+, the speed is limited to 56 mph, and the climate system is not available, which is perfect for running local errands on a nice day. The view from the driver's seat is expansive and unobstructed, which is really nice. Despite its small exterior size, the interior is plenty roomy in the front. The back seat is a bit tight for all but the smallest among us. BMW did an excellent job with the lighting, both inside and out. The exterior lights are functional and beautiful, with great visibility from the headlights. The interior lights are warm and cozy, with either orange or white lighting on the dashboard and around the door handles. Mine has the gorgeous eucalyptus wood, which always gets positive comments from my passengers. It also has the upgraded Harman Kardon sound system, which has a rich dynamic sound and is really impressive. The tires are skinny, with smaller tires in the front than in the back, which means the tires can only be rotated side to side, not back to front and vice versa.Also, the car only fits Bridgestone Ecopia tires, which cost around $250 each. I've heard from others that they wear out quickly, usually after 10K - 20K miles. Although the ride quality is mostly composed, firm and smooth, bumps and ruts in the road can upset it considerably. On the highway, the car can get a bit squirrelly and needs to be actively controlled. However, overall, I really enjoy driving this car. It's fun, comfortable and energy efficient.
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I see that you use your BMW i3 BEV primarily for your daily commute, covering 48km each way. That leaves you with 15km - 40km at the end of the day, which is great! With the Level2 charger in your garage, you can keep your car fully charged. I must say, this car is very responsive both off the line and on the highway. The high seating position and open design provide a great view of the road. You must be saving a lot of money, around $2,100 per year, due to the low energy and maintenance costs. It's great to hear that you find this car practical and fun to drive around town, making your commute much better. The service costs are very low, and the car has excellent reliability. After 4 1/2 years of ownership, the electric range has only dropped by 5 km out of the typical 120 km. Overall, it sounds like you have made a great choice with your car!
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Great car! It has very sporty handling and acceleration, and it's also very comfortable. I know it can be hard to find one in stock, but trust me, it's worth the wait. Driving it is so much fun, especially with its edgy styling. Plus, it's surprisingly quiet and solid. The auto speed control (semi self-driving) is a very nice feature that adds to the overall experience. This is actually my second electric vehicle, the first being a Nissan Leaf, and I have to say, I'm impressed. It gets 4 miles per kWh and 100 MPGe, which is amazing!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Bmw I3 problems:
BMW i3 Problems? I just bought mine used and so far I really love it ...
Apr 2, 2022 ... We had an issue with the fuel filler door early in our ownership that was a very common sensor problem. If you have a REX, do not overfill the ...
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Sep 1, 2022 ... Have you had any issues with your BMW i3? What were they? What are some common problems on BMW i3? Any specific to REx models? Thanks!
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Sep 2, 2022 ... The most common issue is the broke motor mount. I drove like a grandpa and didn't perceive any problems. Out of the blue I experienced a high ...
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Oct 20, 2018 ... ... problem introduced in a fairly recent system software version. Our 2014 BEV with old July, 2016, system software hasn't had this problem.
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Oct 24, 2020 ... We have to replace the steering gear including servo and I'm really happy that it our i3 2016 is under warranty since the estimated cost is ...
Other years of Bmw I3
Are you having problems with your 2016 Bmw I3?
Consuelo Gerlach 2024-11-05
It seems like you had a negative experience with BMW. We're sorry to hear that you didn't receive the support you needed for your long trip. It's important to note that each BMW dealer is independently owned and may have different policies. However, we appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration as we strive to improve our customer service. If you're interested in exploring other options, we'd be happy to help you find a vehicle that better suits your needs.
Doyle Marks 2024-01-17
Our BMW i3 has unfortunately experienced some issues and has been in the shop for three weeks now due to AirBag and Restraint problems. Despite the challenges, we are confident that our team of skilled technicians, both in the USA and Germany, are working diligently to resolve the issue. We understand the frustration that comes with having a car in the shop for an extended period of time, but we assure you that we are doing everything in our power to get your car back on the road as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this process. As for the design of the car, we understand that it may not be suitable for everyone, but we stand behind our innovative and eco-friendly approach to transportation. Thank you for choosing BMW.Cleaning the outside of this car can be a real challenge due to its many panels and shapes. Additionally, the rear windows do not roll down, which can be disappointing. The unique, skinny tires can make the car feel unstable when encountering smooth bumps in the road, such as railroad track crossings, and even worse when it's wet outside. It's important to avoid speeding around corners with these tires. While the car may look impressive in the showroom, it has many shortcomings that become apparent in the real world. Overall, my experience with this BMW has been disappointing and I would not choose to own or lease one again. It's unfortunate that such a high-priced car is so poorly built.
Alec Gorczany 2024-01-15
I've owned 14 cars, but unfortunately, this one has been the worst experience yet. Despite my initial excitement, the car has had systemic computer problems and malfunctioning electronics, which have affected its safety. Additionally, the tires have been paper-thin, and I've had to replace six of them in just 2.5 years. The cost of replacing the tires at the dealer has been quite high, but I found that Firestone offers a more affordable option. Unfortunately, the service I received was not up to par, and when I filed a complaint about the computer problems, corporate was not very helpful. Now, the seat heaters are not working, but thankfully, the lease is up in just two months. If you're looking for a car that won't cause frustration every time you drive it, I would recommend looking elsewhere.