2018 BMW i8

The 2018 BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that turns heads with its futuristic design and impressive performance. It’s powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 369 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The i8 comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the i8 for its striking looks, fuel efficiency (for a sports car), and sporty handling. However, some common complaints include a firm ride, limited cargo space, and relatively small rear seats.

Electric Motor

• High Voltage Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric range, warning messages on the dashboard related to the high-voltage battery, and in some cases, complete failure to operate in electric mode.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-voltage battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000 - $20,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged 3-Cylinder

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level dropping, overheating, visible coolant leaks around the engine bay, and a sweet smell emanating from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty coolant hoses, reservoirs, or water pumps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, jerking during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Could range from a software update to transmission rebuild or replacement depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper/Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, reduced handling performance, clunking noises from the suspension, and visible fluid leaks from the struts/dampers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty struts/dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Charging Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to charge, slow charging speeds, error messages related to charging, and issues with the charging port.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the onboard charger, charging cable, or charging port.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing or crashing, issues with the digital instrument cluster, navigation problems, and connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the affected control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not sitting flush with the body, difficulty closing the doors, and excessive wind noise.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door hinges and latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard, door panels, or seats.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacing loose trim pieces or fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to adjust the seat position, clicking noises from the seat motor, and uneven seat movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 BMW i8 is a complex and technologically advanced vehicle, and with that comes the potential for a range of issues. The most significant concerns relate to the high-voltage battery and potential electrical problems, which can be costly to repair. Other issues, such as coolant leaks and transmission problems, are more typical of modern vehicles. While the i8 offers unique styling and performance, potential buyers should be aware of the potential repair costs and complexities associated with this plug-in hybrid sports car. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, but with most issues falling into the hundreds or thousands of dollars for a resolution.