Is the 2015 BMW I3 reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2015 BMW I3?

The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2015 BMW I3 have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2015 BMW I3

○ Not enough data

2015 BMW I3
RENDERED 2026-11-01T18:19:46.867Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 47
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 1
Top problem: Steering

Complaints per year

2015: 47 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2014	54
2015	47
2016	33
2017	53
2018	14
2019	13
2020	0
2021	1
2022	0

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Steering

32% · 15 reports

Air bags

19% · 9 reports

Most commonly citing front passenger and occupant classification.

Show complaint excerpts

airbag failed. alert light went on. Had to be replaced.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-02-26

2015 BMW I3. Consumer writes in regards to range extender safety recall. *ld consumer sent additional correspondence. *ld the consumer stated the vehicle has had multiple recalls and 2 lightweight tires that have ruptured easily.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-15

Also filed under Electrical system

Structure

15% · 7 reports

Most commonly citing body.

Vehicle speed control

13% · 6 reports

Electrical system

13% · 6 reports

CRASHFIRE

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2015 BMW I3. The contact stated that the vehicle charging port overheated while charging and melted.

NHTSA ODI report, 2021-02-02

I turned on the car, opened the gate and put the car in reverse. I pressed the gas peddle lightly and the car flew out of the driveway, hit the gate, flew out into the street and hit a parked car. During this time, the car brakes never worked.

NHTSA ODI report, 2016-07-20

Also filed under Engine and service brakes

The contact owns a 2015 BMW I3. The contact stated that after turning on the fan, there was plastic particles blowing out of the vents. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated.

NHTSA ODI report, 2023-10-19

Also filed under Visibility

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2015-11-25Air bags15V628000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper two-door vehicles, 2015-2016 MINI John Cooper Works and MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper four-door vehicles and 2014-2015 BMW i3 vehicles.

Remedy: MINI and BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2015.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2017-03-25Fuel system, gasoline17V088000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 i3 REx hybrid electric vehicles.

Remedy: 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.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2018-01-12Air bags17V720000 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.

Remedy: 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.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2015 BMW I3 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Steering: 15 reports on file for this year.
Air bags: 9 reports on file for this year.
Structure: 7 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 15V628000 · Air bags
Recall 17V088000 · Fuel system, gasoline
Recall 17V720000 · Air bags

FAQ

Is the 2015 BMW I3 reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2015 BMW I3?: The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2015 BMW I3 have?: 3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.