BMW i3 (I01)
The i3 was BMW's first mass-produced EV and remains one of the most distinctive cars on UK streets: a carbon-fibre passenger cell, aluminium chassis, rear-mounted motor and an optional 647cc range extender. UK sales began in 2013 at around £30,700 before the plug-in grant, and the car became a familiar sight in London thanks to congestion-charge exemption and low company-car tax. Three battery generations - 60Ah/22kWh, 94Ah/33kWh from 2016 and 120Ah/42.2kWh from 2018 - mean early cars are cheap but short-legged, while later 120Ah cars are the usable ones. It is genuinely cheap to run and surprisingly robust, but bespoke narrow tyres, 12V electrics, charging hardware and costly CFRP body panels can bite. Buy on battery health, a charging test and evidence of regular use, not mileage alone.
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Common Faults & Reliability
These are the most common documented problems for the BMW i3 (I01), sorted by their typical impact and frequency.
REx Engine Corrosion & Misfires
medium severityThe Range Extender (a 650cc scooter engine) can suffer from internal corrosion or stale fuel if not used regularly. It is sensitive to spark plug and oil condition.
Motor Mount & Bolt Failure
high severityEarly models had plastic motor mounts or weak mounting bolts that could snap under the high torque of the electric motor, potentially damaging the drivetrain.
KLE (Onboard Charger) Failure
high severityThe Convenience Charging Electronics (KLE) module can fail, leading to reduced AC charging speeds or a total inability to charge from a wallbox.
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