2017 vs 2018 BMW i3

- 2017
I01 2014–2021 Sold as i3 with Range Extender, i3 60 Ah
- 5 warnings
- 3 recalls
- 2018
I01 2014–2021 Sold as i3 with Range Extender, i3s, i3s with Range Extender
- 5 warnings
- 3 recalls

Both years are the same generation, so most of what they offer is shared.

Watch out for

Reputation: what owners and the press report. Tap one to see what to check.

Range extender fuel vent recall 2014–2017

What to check: Make sure the fuel vent line recall was done.

NHTSA lists a recall for 2014 to 2017 cars with the range extender whose fuel tank vent line can rub through and leak fuel vapor.

NHTSA

Motor electronics recalls 2018–2019

What to check: Make sure the motor electronics recall was done.

NHTSA lists recalls for 2018 and 2019 cars whose electric motor electronics can cut the high-voltage power supply, fixed by a new module.

NHTSA

Battery capacity loss 2014–2018 One source so far

What to check: Ask for a battery state of health report, read with BMW's diagnostic software or a suitable scan tool.

Euro Premium Parts says the 22 kWh battery loses the most range with mileage, and that the 33 kWh battery holds up better but shows wear past 70,000 to 90,000 miles.

A seller's guide (unofficial)
Range extender wear All years

What to check: Ask for the range extender's oil change records and listen for vibration when it runs.

Euro Premium Parts says the scooter engine is not built for sustained hard use, can overheat and wear early, and its mounts can loosen around 50,000 miles. Edmunds says the range extender is not meant for cross-country travel.

Edmunds, a seller's guide (unofficial)
DC fast charging faults All years One source so far

What to check: Try a DC fast charge, and look at the charging inlet for bent pins or corrosion.

Euro Premium Parts says some cars refuse to start a fast charge because of a faulty charging control module or a damaged inlet.

A seller's guide (unofficial)
Narrow, costly tires All years One source so far

What to check: Look at the tire sidewalls for damage and budget for replacements.

Euro Premium Parts says the i3's narrow, tall tires are easily damaged by potholes and are expensive and harder to find than common sizes.

A seller's guide (unofficial)

16V914000 2017
The initiators of the seat-mounted side airbag inflators may fail to fire in a crash. Dealers replace the airbag modules. NHTSA
17V088000 2014–2017
The fuel tank vent line can rub through on the battery cable's protective sleeve and leak fuel vapor. Dealers inspect the line, replace it if needed and fit a clip to stop the rubbing. NHTSA

18V652000 2018
Capacitors in the portable charger can fail, a shock or fire risk. Dealers inspect the charging cable and replace it if needed. NHTSA
19V310000 2018
A circuit board fault in the electric motor electronics can cut the high-voltage power supply. Dealers replace the module. NHTSA

17V720000 2014–2018
Unbelted small adult drivers may be at higher risk of neck injury in a frontal crash, so the cars do not meet the federal occupant protection standard. Dealers update the driver's airbag control software. NHTSA

After 2017, up to and including 2018.

2018A facelift brings new bumpers and standard LED headlights, the sportier i3s arrives, and the 60 Ah car is dropped. Edmunds, a published reference

Engines: Electric motor, 22 kWh battery (2014–2017) Edmunds, a published reference

Engines: i3s electric motor, 33 kWh battery (2018) Edmunds, a published reference

Engines: Electric motor, 33 kWh battery (2017–2018) Edmunds, a published reference, 0.6L two-cylinder range extender Edmunds, a published reference, a seller's guide (unofficial)
Transmissions: Single-speed direct drive Edmunds, a published reference
Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive Edmunds, a published reference
Trims: Deka World (2017–2021) Edmunds, Mega World Edmunds, a published reference, Giga World Edmunds, a published reference, Tera World Edmunds, a published reference
Packages: Technology + Driving Assistant Package Edmunds, Parking Assistant Package Edmunds, Harman Kardon premium sound Edmunds, 20-inch wheels Edmunds, Power glass sunroof (2017–2021) Edmunds

Nothing that 2018 lacks.

Nothing that 2017 lacks.

Reputation: what owners and the press report

Watch for: A high-mileage 22 kWh car without a battery report 2014–2017 Less sought after One source so far

Euro Premium Parts calls battery wear on the early cars critical for buyers on a budget, with some owners reporting much shorter range past 60,000 to 80,000 miles. A seller's guide (unofficial)

Nothing that 2017 lacks.