BMW i3 Lemon Law: Problems, Complaints, & Recalls

The BMW i3 is an electric vehicle (EV) that remained in production from 2013 to 2022. Even though BMW is no longer producing the i3, the car is still sold at used car dealerships. In addition, many consumers continue to report BMW i3 problems. 

At Robison Lemon Law Group LLC, we want you to get the most value out of your i3 purchase. If you bought an i3 but continue to deal with problems, please let us know. A lemon law attorney from our team can review your BMW i3 case and help you determine if you can file a legal claim for compensation.

How Reliable Is the BMW i3 EV? 

There are mixed reviews about the reliability of the BMW i3 EV. U.S. News and World Report gave the 2014 BMW i3 an 8.3 out of 10 rating based on its reliability and other factors. However, this rating dropped to 6.8 out of 10 with the 2021 model. 

Some i3 owners say the vehicle is reliable, particularly when it is compared against other electric vehicles. On the other hand, questions persist about the i3’s battery and other vehicle components. If any of these components malfunction, they can be expensive to repair or replace. 

If you purchased an i3 and are dealing with reliability issues, bring your vehicle to a manufacturer or dealer for repairs. At this point, the manufacturer or dealer should address the issue and prevent it from recurring. If it does not, you may be able to use the lemon law process to get compensation based on your vehicle defects. 

Are There Safety Flaws with the i3 EV?

There have been several BMW i3 problems that have led to vehicle recalls. These issues include:

Electrical Faults 

On August 13, 2019, BMW recalled certain i3 EV models due to a faulty circuit power board. The automaker noted that the defective board can cause the i3’s high-voltage electrical power to shut down. If this happens, the vehicle can suffer a loss of propulsion, increasing a driver’s risk of a crash. 

Defective Airbags

BMW recalled various 2014-2018 i3 models due to defective frontal airbags. The recall, issued November 15, 2017, indicated that unbelted, small, adult i3 drivers face a higher risk of neck injury due to the frontal airbags issue. BMW also pointed out that the airbags did not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety (FMVS) requirements. 

Malfunctioning Fuel System

Some i3 models were recalled due to a fuel tank vent line defect. If left unaddressed, this issue could cause a fuel vapor leak near an ignition source. In the worst-case scenario, the problem could result in a fire. 

Robison Lemon Law Group LLC keeps track of auto recall notices and complaints. For those who have been forced to deal with BMW i3 problems for a long time, please reach out to us. Our team can take a look at your case and explain what legal options are currently available to you.  

What Problems Do i3 Owners Report?

BMW is a globally recognized auto brand. Regardless, many car owners have reported BMW i3 problems over the years. These problems include:

Battery Failure

The i3 battery has an estimated 15-year lifespan, which is typically longer than most people own a single car. Yet, the i3’s battery sometimes wears out faster than expected. Some i3 owners report battery charging issues, too. 

Motor Malfunction

Dating back to the 2018 i3 model, some car owners have pointed out that their vehicles experience a sudden loss of power to the motor. This motor malfunction previously led to a BMW recall. If you have dealt with this issue, you should bring your i3 to a manufacturer or dealer for repairs right away.  

Noise from the Steering Wheel

Some i3 owners say they hear squeaking or squealing noises from the steering wheel. These noises are common when drivers turn their vehicles. They may occur due to a lack of lubrication on a plastic bearing on the steering spindle. 

BMW i3 problems can escalate quickly. If you have an issue with your i3, consult with the manufacturer or dealer. You should then be able to resolve the problem — if not, you may need to hire a lemon law attorney. 

Tips to Deal with BMW i3 Problems

BMW i3 problems may seem minor at first. If you notice an i3 problem that goes away on its own, you likely have nothing to worry about moving forward. Conversely, if a problem with your i3 lingers for weeks or months, you need to address the issue.

Bringing your car to the manufacturer or dealer should allow you to get the repairs you need. Keep track of any auto repairs you receive. If these repairs do not correct your i3 problem, it may be time to pursue a lemon law claim.

Robison Lemon Law Group LLC has handled many lemon law cases. Our team can learn about your BMW i3 EV problems and help you take legal action against a manufacturer or dealer as needed. To get started, please contact us today.