BMW I3 Problems by Year: Complaints and Recalls

BMW I3 years to avoid

No model year of the BMW I3 stands out with more than twice its typical number of complaints.

Fewest owner complaints among the last 20 model years, counting only those with at least four years on the road.

Owner complaints by model year. Newer years have had less time on the road, so expect them to grow.

Year to avoidFewest complaintsOther years

All model years combined.

Tap a year to see its problems, recalls and what owners say.

Year	Score	Complaints	Top problem	Typical mileage	Recalls	Crashes
2021	95	1	Body		0	0
2019	88	13	Electrical		1	1	Fewest complaints
2018	87	14	Acceleration	17,000	3	0	Fewest complaints
2017	55	53	Body	10,650	3	2
2016	73	33	Body	21,000	2	3	Fewest complaints
2015	61	47	Steering	30,000	3	1
2014	54	54	Transmission	23,300	4	3

Repairs the manufacturer covers beyond the normal warranty. Check whether your car and mileage qualify before paying for one of these.

What years of the BMW I3 should you avoid?

No single model year of the BMW I3 has more than twice its typical number of owner complaints.

What is the best year for a used BMW I3?

2019, 2018 and 2016 have the fewest owner complaints among model years that have been on the road for at least four years (13, 14 and 33).

What is the most common problem with the BMW I3?

Steering, with 48 complaints across all years, followed by body (41) and electrical (32).

How many recalls does the BMW I3 have?

8 recalls between 2014 and 2021. The 2014 model year has the most, with 4.

See the problems and recalls for an exact car

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.