2018 vs 2019 BMW i3
-
I01
2014–2021
Sold as i3 with Range Extender, i3s, i3s with Range Extender
- 5 warnings
- 3 recalls
-
I01
2014–2021
Sold as i3 with Range Extender, i3s, i3s with Range Extender
- 4 warnings
- 1 recall
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.
2018
-
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)
2019
Nothing that 2018 lacks.
Both years
-
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)
-
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
-
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)
Recalls
2018
- 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
- 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
2019
- 19V599000 2019
A circuit board fault in the electric motor electronics can cut the high-voltage power supply. Dealers replace the module. NHTSA
What changed between
After 2018, up to and including 2019.
- 2019A 42 kWh battery raises the EPA range to 153 miles, parking sensors become standard, and new colors and trims arrive. Edmunds, a published reference
What it came with
2018
2019
Both years
Colors
2018
Nothing that 2019 lacks.
2019
Nothing that 2018 lacks.
Both years
- Capparis White with BMW i Frozen Blue accents 2016–2020 Edmunds
- Fluid Black with BMW i Frozen Blue accents 2016–2020 Edmunds
- Mineral Grey with BMW i Frozen Blue accents 2016–2020 Edmunds
What owners and buyers say
Reputation: what owners and the press report
2018
Nothing that 2019 lacks.
2019
-
Sought after: A 2019 to 2021 car with the 42 kWh battery 2019–2021
Euro Premium Parts calls the 2019 to 2021 i3 with the largest battery the best mix of range, reliability and value, and prefers the all-electric car to the range extender. Edmunds says to stick with the standard i3 rather than the i3s. Edmunds, a seller's guide (unofficial)