BMW I3 Buying Guide & Reliability (2014-2022)

BMW I3 Overview The BMW I3 is a pioneering electric vehicle that has made a significant impact in the automotive market since its introduction in 2014. With a total of 366 registration plates recorded, the I3 has established itself as a popular choice among eco-conscious drivers.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

BMW I3 Overview

BMW I3 Overview

The BMW I3 is a pioneering electric vehicle that has made a significant impact in the automotive market since its introduction in 2014. With a total of 366 registration plates recorded, the I3 has established itself as a popular choice among eco-conscious drivers.

Produced from 2014 to 2022, the I3 showcases BMW's commitment to sustainable mobility. The model years range from 2014 to 2022, with a notable distribution of vehicles across these years. The highest number of registrations occurred in 2020, with 67 vehicles, followed closely by 2021 with 43 registrations.

In terms of performance, the BMW I3 boasts an impressive MOT pass rate of 90.0%. However, like any vehicle, it has its common failures. The most frequent issues reported include tyres (30 failures), followed by other categories such as brakes (10 failures) and lighting (6 failures).

The I3 is primarily an electric vehicle, with 230 units registered as fully electric and 136 as hybrid electric (clean). This distribution highlights the model's versatility in catering to different preferences for sustainable driving.

Colour preferences among I3 owners show a strong inclination towards white (85 vehicles), grey (81 vehicles), and blue (77 vehicles). The vehicle's aesthetic appeal is complemented by its innovative design, making it a standout in urban environments.

Regarding tax status, the majority of I3 vehicles are taxed (332), with a small number untaxed (30) or declared SORN (4). The average annual mileage for the I3 is approximately 5,961 miles, indicating a practical usage pattern for daily commuting.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. For the most current information, please refer to official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The BMW i3, produced between 2014 and 2022, has established a solid reputation for reliability, reflected in its impressive MOT pass rate of 90.0%. With a total of 1,624 MOT tests conducted across 366 registered vehicles, the i3 demonstrates a commendable performance in meeting safety and environmental standards.

Common failures during MOT tests for the BMW i3 highlight areas where owners may need to pay attention. The most frequent issue is related to tyres, accounting for 30 failures. Other notable categories include general issues classified as 'Other' (20 failures), brakes (10 failures), windscreens (7 failures), and lighting (6 failures). These statistics suggest that while the i3 is generally reliable, regular maintenance and checks in these areas can help ensure continued compliance with MOT requirements.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the majority of registered BMW i3 vehicles are electric, with 230 units, followed by 136 hybrid electric (clean) models. This aligns with the growing trend towards electric vehicles, which are often associated with lower running costs and reduced environmental impact.

Colour preferences among i3 owners show a diverse range, with white (85), grey (81), and blue (77) being the most popular choices. The vehicle's appeal spans various model years, with the highest number of registrations in 2020 (67) and 2021 (43), indicating a steady interest in this innovative electric vehicle.

It is important to note that while these statistics provide a snapshot of the BMW i3's reliability and MOT performance, they are subject to change and may not reflect the current state of all vehicles. Always consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used BMW i3, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure a sound purchase. With a total of 366 registered vehicles in the UK, the i3 has a strong presence in the used market, spanning model years from 2014 to 2022.

First, check the vehicle's MOT history. The BMW i3 boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 90%, indicating that most vehicles are well-maintained. However, be aware of common failures that could affect your purchase. The most frequent issues reported include tyres (30 failures), followed by other categories (20 failures), brakes (10 failures), windscreens (7 failures), and lighting (6 failures).

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for the i3 is approximately 5,961 miles, which can help you gauge the wear and tear on the vehicle. A lower mileage may suggest less usage, but also check for service history to ensure regular maintenance has been performed.

Fuel type is another important aspect. The i3 is predominantly electric, with 230 electric models and 136 hybrid electric (clean) variants available. This distribution reflects the growing trend towards electric vehicles, which may influence your decision based on your driving needs.

Colour preference can also play a role in resale value. The most common colours for the i3 are white (85), grey (81), and blue (77), while black and silver are also popular choices. Selecting a colour that appeals to a wider audience may benefit future resale.

Lastly, verify the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the 366 registered i3s, 332 are taxed, while 30 are untaxed and 4 are SORN. Ensuring the vehicle is taxed can save you from unexpected costs.

Always remember to verify the accuracy of this data with official sources before making a purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The BMW i3, produced between 2014 and 2022, is an electric vehicle that has gained popularity for its eco-friendly credentials and compact design. With a total of 366 registration plates recorded, this model has a strong presence in the UK market.

In terms of running costs, the i3 boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 90%. However, it is important to note that common failures during MOT tests include tyres (30 instances), other issues (20), brakes (10), windscreens (7), and lighting (6). These statistics highlight areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

The fuel type distribution shows that the majority of i3 models are fully electric, with 230 units, while 136 are classified as hybrid electric (clean). This aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable driving options.

When considering the colour distribution of the BMW i3, white is the most popular choice, accounting for 85 vehicles, followed closely by grey (81), blue (77), black (70), and silver (30). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their personal style.

Annual mileage for the i3 averages at 5,961 miles, which is relatively low compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. This can contribute to lower running costs over time, particularly in terms of fuel expenses.

Regarding tax status, 332 of the registered i3 vehicles are taxed, while 30 are untaxed and 4 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This indicates a high level of compliance among owners.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary. Always consult official sources for the most current information.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the BMW i3, there are several alternative models that may also meet your needs. The electric vehicle market has expanded significantly, offering a variety of options that combine efficiency, performance, and style.

One notable alternative is the Nissan Leaf, which has been a popular choice among electric vehicle enthusiasts. With a strong reputation for reliability and a spacious interior, the Leaf offers a practical solution for urban driving. Additionally, it boasts a competitive range, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys.

Another model to consider is the Hyundai Kona Electric. This compact SUV provides a blend of versatility and electric performance, with a range that rivals many competitors. Its modern design and advanced technology features make it an appealing option for those looking for a stylish yet functional vehicle.

The Kia e-Niro is also worth mentioning, as it combines the practicality of an SUV with the benefits of electric driving. With a spacious cabin and impressive range, the e-Niro is designed for families and individuals alike, offering a comfortable ride without compromising on efficiency.

For those interested in hybrid options, the Toyota Prius remains a strong contender. Known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, the Prius has a long-standing reputation in the hybrid market. It provides a seamless transition between electric and petrol power, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.

In summary, while the BMW i3 is a commendable option, exploring alternatives like the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia e-Niro, and Toyota Prius can help you find the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle. Always consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary. Always verify details with official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BMW i3's MOT pass rate?

The BMW i3 boasts an impressive MOT pass rate of 90.0%. This indicates that the majority of i3 vehicles successfully pass their MOT tests, reflecting their reliability and overall condition.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the BMW i3 include issues with tyres (30 failures), followed by other categories such as brakes (10 failures), and windscreen (7 failures). Lighting issues also account for 6 failures. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these problems.

How many BMW i3 vehicles are currently registered in the UK?

As of now, there are 366 registered BMW i3 vehicles in the UK. This figure includes models from various years, with the earliest being from 2014 and the latest from 2022.

What fuel types are available for the BMW i3?

The BMW i3 is primarily available in two fuel types: Electric (230 vehicles) and Hybrid Electric (Clean) (136 vehicles). This variety allows drivers to choose a model that best fits their environmental preferences.

What colours are most popular for the BMW i3?

In terms of colour distribution, the most popular choices for the BMW i3 are white (85 vehicles), grey (81 vehicles), and blue (77 vehicles). Black and silver are also common, with 70 and 30 vehicles respectively.

What is the average annual mileage for a BMW i3?

The average annual mileage for a BMW i3 is approximately 5,961 miles. This figure can vary based on individual usage and driving habits.

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. Always verify with official sources for the most accurate information.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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