Used BMW i3 Buying Guide
The BMW i3 (2013-2022) remains one of the most interesting used cars on sale: a carbon-fibre-tubbed, rear-wheel-drive electric city car that still looks futuristic a decade on. Its tight turning circle, airy lounge-like cabin and rear-hinged back doors make it a superb urban runabout, and strong build quality means tidy examples have aged well. It suits city and suburban drivers with home charging; it’s less ideal as an only car for regular long motorway trips.
Engines and trims
Rather than trims, the i3 is defined by battery size. Early cars have the 60Ah pack (modest real-world range), 2016-on cars the 94Ah pack, and 2018-on cars the 120Ah pack, which offers the most usable everyday range and is the one to stretch to if possible. The i3s adds sportier styling, wider tracks and a little more power. Until 2018 you could also have the REx range extender - a small two-cylinder petrol generator that tops up the battery. REx cars ease range anxiety but add petrol-engine servicing, and the tiny fuel tank means fuel can sit for long periods, so look for evidence it’s been run periodically. Equipment was bundled into “Worlds” (Loft, Lodge, Suite interiors); heat pump-equipped cars are worth seeking for winter range, along with DC rapid-charging capability, which was optional on some early cars and transforms usability. The i3s’ firmer setup trades a little ride comfort for keener responses - try both before deciding.
What to check before buying
Battery health is check number one: ask for a battery capacity test or dealer health certificate, and compare indicated range on a full charge against the version’s original figures. BMW’s high-voltage battery warranty was typically eight years or 100,000 miles, so many cars are now outside it - price accordingly. A known i3 weak spot is the KLE onboard charging module, which can fail and stop AC charging; confirm the car charges properly on a home-style AC supply, not just rapid DC. On REx cars, listen to the generator running and check its servicing has actually been done.
The skinny tyres wear quickly and are a slightly unusual size, and front suspension components can knock on poor roads, so listen carefully. Any accident damage matters more than usual because the carbon-fibre structure needs approved repair methods - check history thoroughly. Inside, test the full infotainment, preheating and app connectivity, and check the eucalyptus dash trim and kenaf-fibre door cards for lifting or sun damage - charming materials, but not all have aged equally.
Running costs
Charged at home, an i3 costs very little per mile, and servicing is minimal on pure-electric cars - no oil changes, gentle brake wear thanks to strong regeneration. Insurance is moderate but higher than the car’s size suggests, reflecting repair methods. Tyres are the main consumable quirk. REx versions add small but real petrol-engine maintenance costs. Factor a battery health check into any purchase, and remember out-of-warranty high-voltage repairs need an EV-competent specialist - a growing but still selective field, so locate one near you before buying.
Verdict
The i3 is a used EV with genuine character and clever engineering, and a 120Ah car with good battery health is a brilliant second car or city commuter. Verify charging, battery condition and repair history, and it’s one of the most rewarding cheap EVs around.
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