Common Problems with the BMW i7
Charlotte Phillips, 5 months ago
3 min read
- BMW
- Common problems
FixMyCar discusses common problems with the BMW i7.
The BMW i7 is an all-electric variant announced alongside the BMW 7 Series in April 2022. Because it’s still a reasonably new model, data about common problems is limited. Here’s what we know so far.
Known issues with the BMW i7 include:
BMW i7 2022-present problems
The following problems have been identified in some i7 models.
1. Battery failure
A known manufacturing defect on the model can result in high-voltage battery failure, creating a fire risk. This fault resulted in BMW announcing a recall on all i7 models manufactured between 5th July 2021 and 8th July 2022.
If you’re having problems with your battery, it may be unrelated to this particular recall and could require a trained mechanic to inspect and repair it for you. The average price of an electric car repair when you book through FixMyCar is £189.06.
2. Faulty ECU
The engine control unit (ECU) is a computer that manages various systems in your car - find out more here. Unfortunately, a small number of i7 models manufactured in 2023 have been recalled by BMW due to an issue with the ECU. A programming defect means that the unit might not transmit the vehicle’s location to responders in an emergency. Affected vehicles can have their software updated for free at a dealership.
If you’re looking for an ECU repair for a fault that isn’t part of a recall, the average price is £154.23 when you book through FixMyCar.
3. Airbag failure
Another problem reported with the BMW i7 relates to the engine control unit. Due to a fault with the ECU, the software may not recognise the positioning of the front passenger seat. As a result, it could disable the front passenger airbag, knee airbag and headrest in a collision. BMW announced a recall on several affected vehicles to reprogramme the software. For more information, contact your BMW dealer.
The average price of an airbag repair is £136.56, according to our data.
Is the BMW i7 reliable?
As the BMW i7 is still so new, it’s tricky to know how reliable it is, with the vehicle not yet featured in the What Car? Reliability survey. However, BMW came 13th out of 32 brands in the 2022 survey, placing above its competitors, Mercedes and Tesla.
Having trouble with your BMW? Whatever your car needs, we can help you find the right garage at the right price.
If you found this guide helpful, you might also like:
