2017 BMW I3
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 54 |
| 2015 | 47 |
| 2016 | 33 |
| 2017 | 51 |
| 2018 | 14 |
| 2019 | 13 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2021 | 0 |
| 2022 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
24% of complaints: structure — 12 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing body and roof and pillars.
Show complaint excerpts
The carbon fiber roof panel is starting to delaminate and I am concerned that pieces could fly off and cause an accident.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260729
22% of complaints: steering — 11 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
WHILEEXITING A PARKING PLACE ALONG A CURB - SLIGHT VEER OUT,ON DRY PAVEMENT, NIGHTIME, ON AN AVERAGECITY STREET. STEERING SUDDENLY BECAME BULLISH.
NHTSA ODI report, 20191022
14% of complaints: electrical system — 7 distinct reports on file.
12% of complaints: power train — 6 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 BMW I3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A COMPLETE STOP, HIS VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY INTO ON COMING TRAFFIC WITHOUT WARNING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200413
Also filed under VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
8% of complaints: air bags — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing front passenger.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Summary On September 30, 2025, the passenger in a 2017 BMW i3 REX was involved in a severe frontal collision with a Gas Company Utility Vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251217
Also filed under SEAT BELTS
SAFETY TIMELINE
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...
Remedy: 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.
Campaign 16V914000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
Campaign 17V088000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
Campaign 17V720000 — check if this car was fixed
Pedestrian alert sounds
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2017 BMW I3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 16V914000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 17V088000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 17V720000 (air bags) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2017 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 2017 BMW I3?
The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 BMW I3 have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.