2019 Bmw I3 Safety Report

The 2019 BMW I3 presents a mixed safety picture, with a low number of overall complaints but a significant recall related to a critical propulsion system component. With only 11 total complaints, 1 crash, 0 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 deaths reported to NHTSA, the vehicle appears to have a relatively low incident rate. However, the single recall for the 'HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM' is concerning, as it addresses a circuit board problem in the Electric Motor Electronics (EME) module that could lead to a complete loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall directly impacts the vehicle's ability to move, a fundamental safety aspect. Common complaint patterns, despite the low volume, show a notable concentration around the 'STEERING' system, with 3 out of 11 complaints. Issues described include sudden loss of power steering, heavy steering, and the vehicle pulling to one side, making control difficult and unsafe at various speeds. Other significant complaints involve the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' and 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM', often manifesting as unexpected acceleration, stalling, or the range extender failing to activate, leading to dangerous speed reductions on highways. The EME module failure, mentioned in a sample complaint, directly ties into the recall, indicating real-world occurrences of the defect. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for the 2019 BMW I3 (Overall=N/A, Frontal=N/A, Side=N/A, Rollover=N/A), which means there's no independent government data on its crashworthiness. This lack of data makes it difficult to assess its performance in collision scenarios. While the low complaint count is positive, the critical nature of the propulsion system recall and the recurring steering issues highlight areas of concern that potential buyers should be aware of. The vehicle's safety profile is largely defined by these specific mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities rather than crash performance data.

Our recommendation: Given the critical propulsion system recall and recurring steering issues, potential buyers should ensure all recalls have been addressed and thoroughly test the steering and propulsion systems during a pre-purchase inspection.