The second-hand BMW i3 can be a great deal, but there are some considerations you should be aware of.
From that era, the i3 was a quirky, hatchback-style vehicle with an urban car range. Nonetheless, the i3 retains some qualities that give it a refreshing and intriguing feel even over a decade later, including its carbon-fiber design and its high-end, sustainably sourced interior.
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Are you considering purchasing a pre-owned BMW i3? Here's everything you should be aware of.
Some of the last BMW i3 models manufactured.
Choosing the Right BMW i3 for You
Two main variations of the BMW i3 existed: the i3 and the i3s. The standard i3 produced 170 horsepower. The i3s, launched in 2018, was "the sport" trim. It had a power boost to 181 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque compared to the 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of the standard model. Additionally, the i3s featured changes such as a sport mode, a sport suspension lowered by 0.5 inches, and a wider track. These modifications came at the cost of a reduced driving range compared to the standard i3 model.
BMW also sold REx range extender versions of both vehicles. Those vehicles came with a 647-cc two-cylinder gasoline motor (derived from a motor found in a BMW scooter) and a 2.4 gallon (1.9 gallons before 2017) gasoline tank. The motor could not directly power the wheels, but could instead assist in recharging the battery for extended journeys.
The late-production BMW i3s.
What size battery power is included in your i3.
The BMW i3 was available with three different battery capacities throughout its production cycle. The initial model, released from 2014-16, came with an 18.2-kilowatt-hour pack providing an estimated 81 miles of EV driving range under normal conditions or up to 150 miles when utilizing the onboard generator in the REx variant. It's worth noting that DC fast charging was not a standard feature on 2014 model year vehicles.
The 2017-18 BMW i3s used a 27.2-kWh battery, which enabled an all-electric range of 107-114 miles, or up to 180 miles with a range extender. The 2019-21 model variants came equipped with a 37.9-kWh battery pack, providing an all-electric range of 153 miles, with a maximum total range of 200 miles with a fully fuelled range extender.
The interior of a 2018 BMW i3.
The Price of a Pre-Owned BMW i3.
The BMW i3 has a relatively low price as pre-owned EVs go. Early 2014-16 models with the 18.2-kWh battery pack usually cost between $6,000 and $12,000. 2017-18 models with the larger 27.2-kWh pack are generally listed between $12,000 and $18,000. 2019-21 models with the largest 37.9-kWh pack tend to be priced between $18,000 and $25,000. Occasionally, an i3s model may be listed above $25,000.
What Warranty Coverage Comes with the BMW i3?
The following states consider the i3 an ozone-friendly low or zero emissions vehicle: California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. These states categorize the i3 as a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV), thereby obligating a 10-year or 150,000-mile warranty coverage on the battery.
BMW offers a comprehensive warranty of four years or 50,000 miles for the i3. As it exited production after the 2021 model year, almost all i3 warranties have likely expired. Nevertheless, BMW extends a one-year, unlimited mileage warranty for certified pre-owned i3 vehicles.
A BMW i3 on the assembly line in Leipzig.
Should You Be Concerned About Battery Degradation in a Pre-Owned BMW i3?
It's advisable to request the dealer to perform an independent range test before making a purchase, or at the very least attempt to conduct a degradation test on the battery.
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The battery setup in the early BMW i3.
Are there any recognized problems with the BMW i3?
When the air conditioning compressor malfunctions. The breakdown can send metal shavings throughout the AC system, including the refrigerant that powers the batteries. If that occurs, it may be necessary to replace the entire system, which can cost over $10,000, often totaling the value of the vehicle. We don't know how frequently this breakdown happens, and there is usually little notice beforehand. Still, if you hear any noise from the A/C compressor, get it repaired before it fails completely.
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Later models of the BMW i3 are generally considered the most desirable ones to obtain.
Conclusion
The BMW i3 is a solid option for people seeking an enjoyable, fun city car. As with other used vehicles, there are some problem areas to be aware of. The Black Death, though relatively uncommon, presents a more significant and costly issue. Early models seem to experience a higher degradation of range. However, if you can circumvent these issues, the i3 is reportedly a fun car to drive daily, and a good electric vehicle option.
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