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 25% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2017 BMW I3 have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2017 BMW I3

○ Not enough data

2017 BMW I3
RENDERED 2026-11-01T18:18:06.457Z

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: 53
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 1
Top problem: Structure

Complaints per year

2017: 53 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.

Structure

25% · 13 reports

Most commonly citing body and roof and pillars.

Show complaint excerpts

My 2017 i3 has a deteriorating roof. The roof, which is made of carbon fiber, is peeling and pieces are breaking off. This has also led to the interior upholstery of my roof to peel and sag.

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-17

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, 2026-07-29

Steering

21% · 11 reports

INJURY

Show 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, 2019-10-22

Electrical system

15% · 8 reports

Show complaint excerpts

The rear backup camera view in the screen is completely overridden in reverse, by a tire pressure warning when a tire is low or there is another TPMS fault.

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-09

Power train

11% · 6 reports

CRASHINJURY

Show 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, 2020-04-13

Also filed under Vehicle speed control

Air bags

8% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing front passenger.

CRASHINJURY

Show 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, 2025-12-17

Also filed under Seat belts

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

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

R

2017-02-10Air bags16V914000 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.

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

2017 BMW I3 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Structure: 13 reports on file for this year.
Steering: 11 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 8 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 16V914000 · Air bags
Recall 17V088000 · Fuel system, gasoline
Recall 17V720000 · Air bags

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 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 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.