This page covers 2 recalls and 32 owner complaints for the 2016 BMW I3.
The most consistent pattern in 2016 BMW i3 complaints centers on the roof structure. Owners widely report that the roof's outer protective coating delaminates and peels away, sometimes releasing fragments while driving, and leaving the underlying material exposed to water and weather. This shows up across multiple complaints and appears to be a shared experience among i3 owners of this vintage. Steering complaints make up the second-largest group, though the reports don't describe a single consistent symptom as clearly as the roof issue does. A handful of electrical complaints mention warning lights illuminating, including airbag indicators, during normal driving. A recurring powertrain concern in range-extender models involves sudden loss of propulsion at very low battery charge, forcing the driver to pull over. The roof delamination complaints are the most specific and repeated pattern: owners describe the coating lifting, bubbling, and separating under ordinary sun exposure.
32
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2016 BMW i3 has two recalls, the more serious being a fuel vapor leak on REx hybrid models where a vent line can rub through against a nearby cable sleeve and create a fire risk near an ignition source.
The second recall affects both electric and hybrid versions: the frontal airbag system does not adequately protect small-statured adult drivers who are unbelted in a frontal crash, raising the risk of neck injury for that occupant.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver airbag system may not provide adequate protection for unbelted small adult drivers in a frontal crash, increasing risk of neck injury.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the driver airbag control unit software at no cost to improve crash protection.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel tank vent line may rub against the battery cable's protective sleeve, creating a hole that allows fuel vapor to leak.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the vent line, replace it if needed, and install a clip to prevent rubbing.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
