2016 Bmw I3 Safety Report
2016 BMW i3 Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Bmw I3
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Bmw I3. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (2) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (32) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 3 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Structure | Compare structure issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2017 | Compare against the 2017 Bmw I3 with 46 complaints and 3 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Bmw I3 before buying across this generation. |
Bmw I3 Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Bmw I3 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Bmw I3 | 46 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Bmw I3 | 46 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2016 Bmw I3 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Bmw I3, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Structure
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Bmw onlySteering
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Bmw onlyElectrical System,Air Bags
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System,Air Bags issues Bmw onlyPower Train
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Bmw onlyAir Bags
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Bmw onlyVehicle Speed Control
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Vehicle Speed Control issues Bmw onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Bmw I3
Reliability Score
The 2016 Bmw I3 receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2016 Bmw I3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Bmw I3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Fiber Roof Delamination The roof of the 2016 BMW i3 is starting to bubble and peel, leading to water ingress during rain. This issue is severe and can lead to structural damage. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Faulty Airbag System There have been reports of faulty airbag warning lights, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system that could affect safety. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Power Loss At Low State Of Charge The vehicle can lose power unexpectedly at very low battery levels, which can be dangerous, especially in emergency situations. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Steering System Issues There have been occasional reports of steering system issues, but the frequency is low and the severity is moderate. |
Low | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Bmw I3:
The roof is prone to delamination and peeling, leading to water ingress and structural issues.
There have been reports of faulty airbag warning lights, indicating potential issues with the airbag system.
The battery can lose power unexpectedly, especially at low state of charge.
There have been occasional reports of steering system issues.
Recall Details for the 2016 Bmw I3
The following 2 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Bmw I3 by NHTSA:
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 BMW i3 electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Unbelted, small adult, drivers may be at a higher risk of neck injury in the event of a frontal crash. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence: During a frontal impact, unbelted, small adult, drivers could be at a higher risk of neck injury.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the Driver air bag control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 8, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at the dedicated i3 recall number 1-855-269-3361.
Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 i3 REx hybrid electric vehicles. The fuel tank vent line may rub against the ribbed wire protection sleeve of the battery positive (B+) cable, creating a hole in the vent line and causing a fuel vapor leak.
Consequence: A fuel vapor leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel vent line, replacing it as necessary, and install a clip to prevent it from chafing, free of charge. The recall beganApril 3, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Bmw I3
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Bmw I3 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
While driving my 2016 BMW i3 with Range Extender, the vehicle experiences sudden and complete loss of propulsion at very low state of charge (0–1%). The car abruptly loses motive power, forcing me to pull over, sometimes while in traffic. After sitting for several minutes, limited power may return, but the vehicle often shuts down again, and in some cases the Range Extender engine does not engage ...
Faulty airbag warning
The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine and the air bag warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel filler had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the ...
The roof has bubbled and peeled away leaving an exposed permeable roof, meaning if it rains, water will get into the car because of the roof material being not safe, not strong, peeling away. Just terrible! Looking online, so many people with i3s ha e all had the same issue!
Translucent protection coat on roof delaminated; pieces blown into air. Bare roof and some coat pieces available for inspection upon request (no inspection yet). Other BMW i3 owners have reported same issue. No prior indication of problem on vehicle itself.
Roof panel is deteriorating and loosing integrity. Outer laminate coat broke down in general sun conditions, and now underlying roof structure is breaking down as well. The dealer has not inspected the roof yet, but this is an issue widely discussed on community forums, and it’s breaking down on my vehicle now.
The roof is bubbling and peeling up. Water gets in it when it rains, then it bubbles greatly. BMW won’t fix it, repair shops don’t want to fix it because it’s an obscure roof. They recommend I take it to BMW which won’t fix it (roof replacement suggested). I just bought this car and drive it as normal, and the special carbon fiber roof is degrading too fast.
The roof on outside is starting to flake off in chunks and expose bottom layers.
Battery degradation
Roof peeling
The carbon fiber roof of my 2016 BMW i3 REx is really starting to bubble and wrinkle. After taking it to two shops any mitigation would cost hundreds of dollars to address. The roof is starting to peel and am worried about water getting to the car. BMW should have engineered these roofs differently. They should be responsible to cost associated with fixing them.
My carbon fiber composite roof is delaminating and separating. There is a risk that the degradation of the roof will become so bad that it will separate off my car while driving and may hit another car. This is a common problem with bmw i3 roofs. It is crazy that the entire roof panel can structurally fail but because it isn’t steel/rust bmw isn’t worried about it.
My bmw i3 has a faulty wiring harness or some other defect that is causing my car to turn off the airbag system. This is a chronic issue with bmw i3’s. Either the wiring harness is bad or the airbag becomes too stiff and the car deactivated the entire airbag system. Dangerous!
The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the contact heard a whistling sound, and the roof detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 19,000.
Loses power "without warning"; actually, when the REX turns on it automatically mentions that power "could be" lost when the REX turns on. However, that is very understated. In fact, there is nowhere in the owner's manual that raises this issue; doesn't even mention that there could or would be a "warning" if battery is low and REX is being used. Bottom line: The REX cannot keep up with drivin...
The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. Additionally, the contact stated that after making a turn, the steering wheel failed to properly return to center. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic however, the cause of the failure could not be duplicated. The vehi...
The contact owns a 2016 BMW I3. The contact stated that the driver restraint warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer, and the contact was informed that the front driver’s side air bag system was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 57,000.
Involved in a frontal collision and air bag did not deploy. Airbag could've prevented more serious injuries suffered. I contacted the service center at BMW Roseville and left a message for the service manager, no return call. The vehicle has been inspected by an insurance authorized collision center and is considered totaled. There were no warning there was a problem and didn't appear until the co...
Previously reported a steering incident no. 11438343. Dealer indidicated that there was a "bug in the software" and that the car would be entitled to a one time fix under extended warranty. Dealership worked on the issue and completed the warranty repair on 11/28/2021 and I picked up the vehicle. Upon starting the car, the steering felt "different". I turned right to exit the dealership and tri...
Vehicle experiences periodic loss of "power steering". Very difficult to steer or control. Steering does not re-center making control difficult. Steering is restored after shutting down the car for a few minutes. Dealership cannot find any faults or codes.
Showing 20 of 32 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2016 Bmw I3
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Electrical System:Propulsion System
Opened 2023-01-27 · Closed 2023-08-07
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-spe...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Bmw I3
Has the 2016 BMW I3 been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 BMW I3 has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2016 BMW I3 have?
The 2016 BMW I3 has 32 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 3 involved crashes. 1 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 BMW I3?
The 2016 BMW I3 does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 BMW I3?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 BMW I3 involve structure (9 complaints), steering (8 complaints), electrical system,air bags (2 complaints). Other affected components include power train, air bags, vehicle speed control.
How many crash reports does the 2016 BMW I3 have?
There are 3 crash reports associated with the 2016 BMW I3 out of 32 total complaints (9.4% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2016 BMW I3 have?
There are no fire reports for the 2016 BMW I3 in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 BMW I3?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 BMW I3.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 BMW I3?
1 injury has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 BMW I3. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2016 BMW I3?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 BMW I3 is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 32 complaints, 2 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 BMW I3?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 BMW I3 are: 1. STRUCTURE (9 complaints), 2. STEERING (8 complaints), 3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS (2 complaints), 4. POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), 5. AIR BAGS (2 complaints). STRUCTURE is the single most-reported problem area with 9 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 BMW I3?
Be cautious of the carbon fiber roof delamination and potential airbag system issues. Regular inspections are recommended. The 2016 BMW I3 has 32 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2016 BMW I3?
The 2016 BMW I3 receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 32 owner complaints, 2 recalls, and 3 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Carbon Fiber Roof Delamination and Faulty Airbag System.
What are the known issues with the 2016 BMW I3?
Known issues with the 2016 BMW I3 include: Carbon Fiber Roof Delamination, Faulty Airbag System, Power Loss at Low State of Charge, Steering System Issues. These are based on patterns found across 32 NHTSA complaints. 2 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the common issues with the 2016 BMW i3?
Common issues include roof delamination, airbag system faults, and unexpected power loss at low battery levels.
Is the airbag system in the 2016 BMW i3 reliable?
There have been reports of faulty airbag warning lights, so it's advisable to check the system regularly.
Can the 2016 BMW i3 lose power suddenly?
Yes, the vehicle can lose power unexpectedly, especially when the battery is at a very low state of charge.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of the carbon fiber roof delamination and potential airbag system issues. Regular inspections are recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Bmw I3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Bmw I3. The data includes 32 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-13