BMW i3 Reliability

BMW has been one of the largest pioneers in the world of electric vehicles. They were one of the earliest luxury manufacturers to begin developing electric vehicles. One of their most notable and longstanding models has been the i3 hybrid, which was first introduced in 2013. While the i3 has changed quite a lot since then, it has continued to remain a reputable hybrid that people love.

If you have considered a BMW i3 for your next Luxury Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, one of your questions may be how reliable it is. Keep reading to learn more about the reliability of the BMW i3.

The Numbers Are In: How the i3 is Rated for Reliability

Firstly, what determines the reliability of a vehicle? Well, it can come down to a lot of factors, but let’s take a look at how JD Power defines it in its “Quality and Reliability Rating.”

“Quality and Reliability: Measures the level of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners. Covers the entire vehicle from the engine to the infotainment system. A higher rating means fewer problems.”

In other words, how long does this vehicle continue to run without issues or the amount of issues in various areas it faces? That being established, JD Power actually rates the i3 quite highly per their standards, with the 2017 model receiving an 82/100.

Reliability of Modern Models

Seeing the above ratings, your first thought may be okay, but what about the modern years of the i3? That’s a completely fair question, so let’s look at a few improvements that have been made across the line.

One of the more common difficulties and failure points of the i3 years ago was in the drive-bearings. Fortunately, this issue was updated in the 2018 model, which helps to make it even more reliable—so much so that Cars.com gave the 2021 i3 a whopping 5/5 in reliability.

The Importance of Maintenance

One of the most significant factors in making any vehicle last longer is taking care of it through proper maintenance. Without staying on top of the regular maintenance schedule and upkeep, various parts are more likely to fail sooner. Just like any other hybrid, the i3 will still require:

• Oil changes
• Filter replacements
• Tire rotations
• Brake fluid changes
• And more

The correct timing for all these tasks can be found in the owner’s manual. However, when purchasing pre-owned, it is important to follow any dealer recommendations as well. This can help to stay in line with any manufacturer or extended warranty options. Ray Catena has many service centers to schedule an appointment with to make sure your i3 is in top shape. 

Check Out the i3 at Ray Catena

If you are interested in the BMW i3, come check it out at Ray Catena. Not only do we carry the most recent year’s model, but we also have a wide array of certified pre-owned models to check out.

To learn more or schedule a test drive, contact us or visit your nearest Ray Catena dealership in person.