Welcome to the comprehensive guide on BMW’s full electric cars battery warranty. As the automotive industry embraces the electric revolution, understanding the intricacies of warranty coverage becomes crucial for prospective buyers.
In this article, we delve into the specifics of BMW’s warranty offerings for electric vehicle batteries, providing you with the ultimate guide to make informed decisions about the longevity and protection of your electric car investment.
What is the Warranty on the BMW i Series High-Voltage Baterries?
The BMW i Warranty covers the high voltage battery in BMW i vehicles if it fails due to manufacturing issues.
In addition to the BMW i Three Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, the high voltage battery is protected for up to 8 years from the first registration date or until it reaches 100,000 miles (160,000 km), whichever happens first.
That being said, both the BMW i Three Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, and the 8 year (or up to 160,000 km/100,000 miles) warranties apply to the following electric vehicles.
- BMW i3
- BMW i4
- BMW i8
- BMW iX3
- BMW iX
- BMW i7 (including M70)
- BMW iX1
- BMW i5
What are the Conditions of the Warranty?
To keep your BMW i Battery Warranty, make sure your car gets checked at the right times, like your BMW i onboard service indicator system suggests.
If there’s anything wrong during these checks, it needs to be fixed. But remember, the warranty doesn’t cover problems caused by accidents or if your BMW i was used in ways it wasn’t supposed to be, like in a country with different rules.
Also, if you modify your car without the manufacturer’s approval, or if you don’t follow the instructions in the owner’s manual, the warranty won’t apply.
And don’t let anyone who’s not an approved BMW i Service Authorised Workshop mess with the high voltage battery in your BMW i.
The benefits of the BMW i Battery Warranty are fully transferable to subsequent owners.
How to Claim the Warranty and What to Expect During the Process?
Accordin to the BMW, in order to make a claim, you need to contact your BMW Retailer and they will be able to provide support and assistance and process your claim.
However, in most cases the process looks like this:
1. Diagnostic Check: First, the BMW i must be brought to an authorized BMW i Service Center for a diagnostic check to determine the issue with the battery.
2. Repair or Replacement: If the battery is found to be faulty, the authorized BMW i Service Center will either repair or replace it under warranty, depending on the extent of the issue.
3. Warranty Coverage: If the battery is repaired or replaced under warranty, the remaining coverage of the original battery warranty will continue to apply.
Important: EV battery replacement can cost $1000s. To avoid high-voltage battery replacement, there are some things you can do. Read this article to find out the 10 best ways to maximize EV battery life and save tons of money!
Symptoms That May Indicate a Need for Battery Replacement
Decreased battery capacity: If battery capacity has dropped below 70% when warranty still applies, it’s a sign of problem.
Rapid loss of charge: If your vehicle is not holding a charge as long as it used to or is losing charge more rapidly, it could indicate an issue with the battery.
Reduced driving range: If you’re not able to go as far on a single charge as you did when the vehicle was new, this could also be a sign that the battery is deteriorating.
Slow charging: If your vehicle is taking longer to charge than it used to, it could indicate that the battery is struggling to hold a charge.
Warning lights or messages: Most electric vehicles have warning lights or messages that will indicate when there is an issue with the battery. If you receive a message or see a warning light related to the battery, it’s important to have it checked out as soon as possible.
Unusual noises or vibrations: If you hear unusual noises or feel vibrations that you haven’t experienced before, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the battery or the electrical system.
Also read: EV Battery in Hot Temperature: 5 Things to Know
How to Operate Your Car to Ensure That Your BMW Battery Warranty Remains Valid?
1. Avoid Deep Discharges: To maximize battery life, refrain from frequently allowing it to reach very low levels. Maintain the battery between 20-80%, steering clear of dropping it below 20%.
2. Regular Battery Charging: Keep your car’s battery healthy by regularly charging it, with Volkswagen suggesting a weekly charging routine to prevent issues related to insufficient charging.
3. Use Approved Chargers: When charging your Volkswagen’s battery, stick to the charger approved by Volkswagen. Using unauthorized chargers can lead to battery damage and void the warranty.
4. Consider Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can impact battery performance. Whenever possible, park your car in a covered area and avoid exposing it to severe weather conditions.
5. Follow Volkswagen’s Maintenance Recommendations: Adhere to Volkswagen’s maintenance guidelines, including routine checks on the battery and software updates. This proactive approach contributes to the overall well-being of the battery. Ensure your car is serviced at a Volkswagen dealership for optimal care.
What’s the Cost of BMW i Series High-Voltage Battery Replacement?
In order to estimate the cost of BMW i Series high-voltage battery replacement, we need to know the average cost of battery per kWh. Let’s assume it’s $100/kwH.
Now, depending on the BMW model, the cost of replacing the battery differs. Here’s the table with the average cost of the new battery for the BMW i Series.
| Model | Battery Capacity (kWh) | Estimated Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
| BMW i3 | 42.2 | $4,220 |
| BMW i4 | 83.9 | $8,390 |
| BMW i8 | 7.1 (12 modules) | $710 (for 7.1 kWh) |
| 11.6 (total capacity) | $1,160 (for 11.6 kWh) | |
| BMW iX3 | 80.0 | $8,000 |
| BMW iX | 76.6 | $7,660 |
| BMW i7 (incl. M70) | 105.7 | $10,570 |
| BMW iX1 | 66.5 | $6,650 |
| BMW i5 | 81.2 | $8,120 |
It’s worth noting these prices don’t include labour cost, which might cost additional $150/hour.
Please note that the estimated replacement costs provided in the table are based on a standard rate of $100 per kWh.
Actual costs for battery replacement may vary depending on factors such as market conditions, location, labor charges, and any additional service fees imposed by BMW or authorized service centers.
It’s advisable to consult with your local BMW dealership or service center to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on battery replacement costs for your specific model.
What’s the Lifespan of a High-Voltage BMW Battery?
The durability of BMW electric batteries is a crucial consideration for both potential buyers and current owners. Typically, BMW batteries can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, contingent on various factors.
Driving behaviors, environmental circumstances, and adherence to recommended maintenance practices all contribute significantly to the overall well-being and lifespan of the electric battery.
BMW incorporates advanced lithium-ion battery technology in its electric vehicle models, ensuring reliable and efficient performance over an extended period.
On average, BMW EV batteries are expected to maintain optimal functionality for approximately 300,000 to 400,000 miles (480,000-640,000 km) before experiencing a notable decline in capacity. It’s essential for BMW electric vehicle owners to consider these factors to maximize the longevity and efficiency of their vehicle’s battery.