About the BMW i3
History of the BMW i3
The BMW i3 is a high-roof hatchback, and was BMW’s first mass-produced zero emissions vehicle, initially launched as part of BMW’s electric vehicle BMW i sub-brand.
BMW i3 Drivetrain Specifications
The BMW i3 was manufactured with an electric powertrain using rear-wheel drive via a single-speed transmission and an underfloor lithium-ion battery pack and an optional range-extending petrol engine.
BMW i3 Body Specifications
The i3 is offered in a single five-door configuration with a passenger module made from high-strength, ultra-lightweight CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) mated to a lower aluminum module holding the chassis, battery, drive system and powertrain. The rear entry features two smaller clamshell rear-hinged rear doors.
BMW i3 Batteries
Drive Battery | 12V Battery | Key Fob Battery
Drive Battery / Traction Battery
The BMW i3 features an underfloor lithium-ion battery pack that comes in 3 variations. A wonderful breakdown of the BMW i3 battery can be found from PushEVs.com.
BMW i3 Drive Battery Size
The BMW i3 Drive battery comes in 3 sizes depending on the years and options:
- 60 Ah: 18.2 kWh (22 gross) lithium-ion battery
- 94 Ah: 27.2 kWh (33 gross) lithium-ion battery
- 120 Ah: 37.9 kWh (42.2 gross) lithium-ion battery
Drive Battery FAQs
How much do BMW i3 replacement batteries cost?
Estimates for a BMW i3 replacement battery have been as high as $16,000.
How long does a BMW i3 battery typically last?
The 94 Ah i3 battery is expected to get 4,000 cycles which is over 400,000 miles with average care. They are expected to last the lifetime of your vehicle.
Where do I purchase a BMW i3 replacement battery?
BMW – Find a dealer near you to discuss replacement battery options for your BMW i3.
eBay – You can typically find used batteries for the i3 in great condition, as well as bus bars and other battery components.
Find BMW i3 Battery Replacements on eBay
12V Battery
BMW i3 12V Battery Size
BMW i3 12V 20AH Batteries on Amazon
How to change the 12V BMW i3 battery
Tools Required
- Ratchet / socket wrench (Amazon)
- Ratchet / socket wrench extension (Amazon)
- 10mm deep socket (Amazon)
- 4mm hex head socket / allen wrench (Amazon)
Step by Step Instructions
A 12V battery controls the accessories and other systems in the BMW i3. They wear out like any other battery. Replacing them can be a little tedious, but is relatively easy. For the BMW i3, the 12V battery is located in the front trunk. Always take precaution and wear insulating gloves when handling batteries.
- Any battery you replace, ensure that it is fully charged before you begin the installation.
- In the front trunk, remove the bolts holding in the cargo tray in the vehicle.
- Remove the cargo tray being careful not to scratch the bumper.
- Disconnect the high-voltage battery connector
- Remove the filler tube to the wiper fluid resevoir.
- Remove the 2 bolts holding the metal bracket that holds the 12V battery in place using a 10mm socket
- Disconnect the negative terminal to the battery
- Remove the vent tube that extends to the battery (2021+ models)
- Slide the battery out toward the front of the car
- When you have access, disconnect the positive terminal to the battery
- Remove the battery entirely
- Ensure you save the terminal adaptors on the old battery as they are specific to the i3.
- Installation is the reverse of removal
- Once installed, register your battery with your i3 using the OBDII scan port and an app such as BimmerLink
BMW i3 12V 20AH Batteries on Amazon
Video Instructions
BMW i3 12V 20AH Batteries on Amazon
Key Fob Battery
The 2014-2020 BMW i3 key fob battery uses a CR2032 lithium battery.
Find CR2032 3V lithium batteries on Amazon
BMW i3 Range Extending Engine (REx)
The BMW i3 shares its optional Kymco-built 647 cc inline two-cylinder engine with the BMW C650 GT maxi-scooter. The REx engine develops 34hp and 41lb-ft of torque at 4,300 RPM.
The REx engine operates when battery capacity drops to a pre-specified level, generating electricity to extend the range.
BMW i3s equipped with the REx have an additional fuel filler door on the right front fender.
BMW i3 Home Charging Stations
There are a multitude of aftermarket home charging stations on the market, each suited to charge your i3 at home. Take advantage of night-time charging rates that could easily pay for the cost of an at-home charger in the long run.
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger
ChargePoint has been making universal chargers for the past 10+ years.
The ChargePoint Level 2 240V universal charger works great with the BMW i3.
- Charges up to 9X faster than a normal wall outlet
- It has flexible amperage settings up to 50 amps (16/24/32/40/48/50 Amp) and plug-in or hardwired installation.
- Use the ChargePoint app to pick the right amperage for your home after installation.
- Set a schedule to only charge when electricity is cheapest
- Alexa voice control
- Backed by 24/7 customer support
- UL listed for electrical safety.
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
Consult your BMW i3 Manuals
BMW i3 Factory Service Manuals
BMW i3 OBDII Port
Gaining access to your car via an app such as BimmerLink can prove very beneficial for your i3. You can read diagnostic codes, see real-time data as your car is in motion, and much more.
You will need an OBDII adaptor to interface with your phone before you can use Bimmerlink. There are many available options on the market.
BMW i3 OBDII Adapters on Amazon
Join a BMW i3 Community
For forum communities dedicated to BMW i3s, featuring owners and enthusiasts discussing the latest mods, upgrades and trends around the BMW i3, check out one of the blow communities:
MyBMWi3.com – News and updates about the i3 from BMW and press around the globe, topics about purchasing, private for sale, want to buy, and other topics
Bimmerpost / BMW i3 Forums – BMW General Discussion around the i3, including modifications, repairs and community events.
SpeakEV / BMW i3 – For discussing all topics relating to the BMW i3
Reddit.com/r/BMWi3 – The official subreddit of the BMW i3
BMW i3 Reviews
BMW i3 Die-Cast Model
Looking for something to put on your desk to remind you of the i3 in your garage? This 1/32 scale die-cast BMW i3 by Kinsmart is available in silver, black, orange and gray.
1/32 scale die-cast BMW i3 on Amazon