2018 BMW i8
Introduction
The 2018 BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car available with a 1.5-liter inline-3 turbocharged gasoline engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, or a 1.5-liter inline-3 turbocharged gasoline engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 1.5-liter engine produces 231 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The i8 is praised for its sleek design, impressive performance, and advanced technology. However, it has also been criticized for its high price, limited cargo space, and lack of practicality.
Engine
1.5-liter Inline-3 Turbocharged Gasoline Engine
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel economy
- Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Wastegate Actuator Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, turbocharger overboost, check engine light
- Solution: Replace faulty wastegate actuator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering felt during acceleration
- Solution: Replace or repair torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed or harsh shifts
- Solution: Replace faulty shift solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, poor handling
- Solution: Replace worn bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use
- Solution: Identify and repair electrical components causing the drain
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen does not respond, system freezes or restarts
- Solution: Software update or hardware replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlights
- Solution: Replace or repair faulty headlight seals
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors lock or unlock intermittently or not at all
- Solution: Replace faulty door lock actuator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Climate control system does not work properly, inconsistent temperatures
- Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty components (e.g., actuators, sensors)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Belt Buckle Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat belt buckle does not engage or release properly
- Solution: Replace faulty seat belt buckle
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 BMW i8 is a technologically advanced sports car with impressive performance. However, it has some common issues that can be costly to repair. Electrical and transmission problems seem to be the most prevalent, with estimated repair costs ranging from $500 to $2,500 or more. Engine and suspension issues are less common, but can also be expensive to fix. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used i8.