2013 — 2017
60Ah Electric Motor
Electric
Listen closely for any whining noises from the rear electric motor under heavy acceleration, as this can sometimes indicate wear on the reduction gear bearings in higher-mileage examples.
Toggle through the drive modes and check that the transition between regenerative braking and mechanical braking feels consistent, as the brake actuator systems in early i3s should be monitored for smooth operation.
Park on a level surface and check the condition of the skinny front tyres; due to the unique geometry, these can show uneven wear patterns if the alignment has drifted, which is common in older city-driven vehicles.
Verify the health of the 12V auxiliary battery by checking if the infotainment screen flickers or if any 'low battery' warnings appear during startup, as these cars are quite sensitive to 12V voltage drops.
Consider having the reduction gear fluid checked or replaced to maintain drive unit longevity.
The suspension bushes and lower control arms may start to show signs of age, affecting the sharp handling typical of the i3.
Evaluate the state of the high-voltage battery health (SOH) via an OBDII diagnostic tool to see how much range degradation has occurred over the years.
Keep the cabin air filter fresh to ensure the climate control system operates efficiently.
Inspect the brake fluid levels annually, as the i3 uses the mechanical brakes less frequently than traditional cars.
Ensure the charging port door and latch mechanism are kept clean and free of debris for consistent charging connections.
Monitor the coolant levels for the battery thermal management system during your regular service intervals.
Regularly clean the exterior sensors and cameras to assist the driver-aid systems in functioning correctly.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
Since the 12V battery powers the car's computers and triggers the high-voltage system, it is common to need a fresh one every 3-5 years. If this component needs attention in the future, the estimated cost in NZ is reasonable, but it is important to use a compatible AGM battery.
Because the regenerative braking does most of the heavy lifting, the physical brakes can occasionally suffer from surface corrosion if not used enough. Depending on the car's history, you might eventually need to budget for a full brake refresh to ensure optimal safety.
The i3 has a unique suspension setup that provides a great ride, but as components like strut mounts or bushings age, you may notice a change in handling. If you choose to refresh these for a factory-fresh feel, it is worth planning for the labour involved.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer