2017 BMW I3 recalls and problems
The 2017 BMW I3 has 3 safety recalls and 53 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2017 BMW I3 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2017 BMW I3 recalls
Recall 17V-720: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 BMW i3 electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Unbelted, small adult, drivers may be at a higher risk of neck injury in the event of a frontal crash. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: During a frontal impact, unbelted, small adult, drivers could be at a higher risk of neck injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the Driver air bag control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 8, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at the dedicated i3 recall number 1-855-269-3361.
Recall 17V-088: Fuel System, Gasoline
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 i3 REx hybrid electric vehicles. The fuel tank vent line may rub against the ribbed wire protection sleeve of the battery positive (B+) cable, creating a hole in the vent line and causing a fuel vapor leak.
Risk: A fuel vapor leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel vent line, replacing it as necessary, and install a clip to prevent it from chafing, free of charge. The recall beganApril 3, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 16V-914: Air Bags
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, Mini 4-Door Cooper, Cooper S, Mini 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and 2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, M5 and 535d vehicles. The affected vehicles have seat- mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash.
Risk: If the air bag inflator initiator fails to ignite, the seat-mounted air bag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began February 6, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
2017 BMW I3 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 13 | |
| Unknown or Other | 12 | |
| Steering | 11 | |
| Electrical System | 8 | |
| Power Train | 6 | |
| Air Bags | 4 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 2 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 2 | |
| Tires | 2 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 10
- Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars — 3
- Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 1
- Tires › Markings — 1
- Tires › Tread/Belt — 1
- Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer — 1
- Back Over Prevention › Warnings — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 10,650 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2017 BMW I3 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW I3 years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2017 BMW I3 have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2017 BMW I3: 17V-720 (air bags), 17V-088 (fuel system, gasoline), 16V-914 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 BMW I3?
Owners report structure problems most often (13 reports), followed by unknown or other (12). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 10,650 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.