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How reliable is the BMW i3?
My BMW i3 is just about to exit its 3 year warranty and I have been offered extended warranty at £700-plus per annum. This seems quite a lot of money for a car that has limited to go wrong with it and does not cover the battery which is covered by a BMW warranty for the next 5 years.
What is the reliability of this vehicle to date and should I consider this as a good investment?
It is a low mileage vehicle, approx. 12,000 miles to date.
Are there better value offers elsewhere for this vehicle?
What is the reliability of this vehicle to date and should I consider this as a good investment?
It is a low mileage vehicle, approx. 12,000 miles to date.
Are there better value offers elsewhere for this vehicle?
Asked on 8 December 2021 by Johnd44
Answered by
Sarah Tooze
We have had a very small number of reports of issues with the i3, notably an owner who had done 40,000 miles in theirs who had ongoing charging problems.
It is worth bearing in mind that electric cars have fewer moving parts and therefore you might anticipate fewer maintenance issues.
The level of cover provided will be key. I would suggest comparing the quote you have been given by BMW to offers from warranty specialists, making sure they are on a similar level. You can read our guide to car warranties here for more advice: www.honestjohn.co.uk/cheap-car-warranties/
It is worth bearing in mind that electric cars have fewer moving parts and therefore you might anticipate fewer maintenance issues.
The level of cover provided will be key. I would suggest comparing the quote you have been given by BMW to offers from warranty specialists, making sure they are on a similar level. You can read our guide to car warranties here for more advice: www.honestjohn.co.uk/cheap-car-warranties/
If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.
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