2018 BMW I3 Electric · YV18 AAZ

As a pure electric vehicle, the BMW i3 attracts zero road tax (VED) under current rules for vehicles registered before April 2025, and is exempt from London Congestion Charge and ULEZ charges, which is a significant running cost advantage. Insurance typically sits in groups 20-25 depending on the exact variant, so quotes should be moderate rather than punitive. Home charging costs are low — a full charge from empty on a standard domestic tariff costs roughly £4-£5, delivering around 120 miles of real-world range.

Routine maintenance on the i3 is generally cheaper than a comparable petrol BMW because there are fewer wearing components — no oil, spark plugs, timing chains or exhaust system to service. However, tyre replacement is a notable cost as the i3 uses narrow but specific low-rolling-resistance tyres, typically £80-£150 per corner fitted. Annual servicing at a BMW specialist typically costs £150-£250, considerably less than equivalent petrol or diesel models.

Although both recorded MOT tests resulted in clean passes with no advisories, buyers should not assume the vehicle is problem-free — the MOT history only covers a small window and does not record battery health, interior condition or accident history. Physically inspect the tyres for uneven wear, cracking or perishing, as the model aggregate data shows tyres are the most common MOT failure point for the i3. Check that all four wheels are the correct size and type, as i3s are sensitive to wheel specification changes.

The second most common failure point across the i3 range is the coil spring, so inspect the ride height visually — if one corner sits noticeably lower than the others, a snapped spring is likely. Also check the windscreen washer system is functioning correctly, as this is the third most common MOT failure. Beyond MOT items, have the high-voltage battery health checked professionally, examine the charge port for damage or scorching, test both AC and DC rapid charging if equipped, and verify that the air conditioning system is cooling effectively, as HVAC failures are a known i3 weak point.