IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019 BMW i3 (I01)

For 2019 the i3 moved to a 120Ah/42.2kWh battery, gained the sporty i3s variant and dropped the range extender from European sale.

What changed for 2019

  • •42.2kWh/120Ah battery with about 190 miles of WLTP range.
  • •REx range extender withdrawn from the UK and European markets.
  • •i3s with 181hp, a wider track, sport suspension and 20-inch wheels.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Brake disc pitting and corrosion on low-mileage examples.
  • !Tyre wear and kerbed 20-inch alloys on i3s models.
  • !Suspension arm and top-mount wear from the car's weight over UK speed humps.
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Known Issues
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Serious
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Moderate
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Minor

All Known Issues

12V Auxiliary Battery Failure

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The small 12v battery powers the car's computers. When it fails, the car throws dozens of unrelated error codes and may refuse to engage the high-voltage system.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£250
Warning Signs:

Random "High Voltage System" errors, Car won't "Ready" or unlock, Screen glitches

What to Inspect:
  • Check the date code on the 12v battery (should be replaced every 4-5 years)
  • If original, budget for immediate replacement
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2019 BMW i3 (I01)

  • Later 120Ah cars hold value better and are the only ones with usable winter range.
  • Confirm the car has a Type 2 cable and check the DC rapid-charge option.
  • Inspect the carbon-fibre sills and underbody for impact damage; repairs are specialist.
20182020–2022
Check a 2019 BMW i3 (I01) by Registration