As electric cars continue to gain popularity, more and more consumers are considering making the switch to an eco-friendlier option. One such car that has been turning heads since its release is the BMW i8, a sleek and stylish plug-in hybrid sports car.
While the car boasts impressive features and performance, one concern that potential buyers may have is the cost of replacing the car’s battery.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the BMW i8 battery replacement cost in 2023 and explore the factors that may affect this expense.
BMW i8 Battery Basics
The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that features a high-voltage battery as its primary source of power. The i8’s battery pack is a 355-volt lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 7.1 or 11.6 kilowatt-hours.
The battery is used to power the car’s electric motor, which drives the front wheels, as well as to store energy generated by regenerative braking. The battery also works in conjunction with the car’s gasoline engine to provide additional power when needed.
The i8’s battery pack is located in the center tunnel of the car, between the driver and passenger seats. The battery is cooled by a liquid coolant system that maintains its operating temperature and helps to prolong the battery’s lifespan.
The i8 also features a range-extending gasoline engine, which can be used to generate electricity to power the electric motor and recharge the battery when its charge is depleted.
When Should You Replace the Battery in Your BMW i8?
The battery in your BMW i8 is designed to last for the life of the vehicle. However, over time, the battery’s performance will degrade, and it may need to be replaced. There are several signs that indicate it may be time to replace the battery in your BMW i8.
One of the most obvious signs is a decrease in the vehicle’s overall range. As the battery ages, it will lose its ability to hold a charge, which will result in a decrease in the distance you can travel on a single charge.
If you notice that your BMW i8 is not able to travel as far on a single charge as it used to, it may be time to replace the battery.
Another sign that your BMW i8’s battery may need to be replaced is if you notice a decrease in the vehicle’s performance.
The battery powers the electric motor that drives the vehicle, so if the battery is not functioning properly, the vehicle’s performance may be affected. You may notice that your BMW i8 is not as responsive or quick as it used to be.
Finally, if you notice any warning lights or messages on your BMW i8’s dashboard related to the battery or charging system, it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician.
Also read: BMW Battery Warranty (i Models): Everything You Need to Know
How Long Does the BMW i8 Battery Last?
The lifespan of the BMW i8 batteries can vary depending on various factors such as the make and model of the vehicle, driving habits, and maintenance practices.
Generally, the battery life of this PHEV is estimated to be around 8-10 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), but it can last longer with proper care and maintenance.
PHEV batteries are designed to retain around 70-80% of their original capacity after this period, but this can also vary.
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!
Are BMW i8 Battery Replacements Covered Under Warranty?
Fortunately, BMW provides a warranty for the i8’s high voltage battery against manufacturing defects. This warranty covers the high voltage battery for up to six years from the date of first registration, or up to 60,000 miles(100,000 km), whichever comes first.
It is important to note that all high voltage battery repairs under warranty must be performed by a BMW Service Authorised Workshop.
Moreover, it’s not only the first owner who can benefit from the warranty, but it is also transferable to subsequent owners of the BMW i8.
However, to maintain the BMW PHEV Battery Warranty, the vehicle must be inspected at the correct service intervals as recommended by the on-board service indicator system. During those inspections, any necessary remedial work must be carried out.
It is important to note that certain circumstances may void the warranty.
Claims for technical defects or excessive capacity loss will not be accepted if the BMW i8 has been operated under conditions for which it was not homologated, such as in a country with different homologation regulations than the one it was originally supplied for.
Additionally, operating the car abnormally or overstressing it, using parts that were not approved by the manufacturer, or manipulating the software or any part of the vehicle in a way that was not approved by the manufacturer will also void the warranty.
Furthermore, failing to follow the instructions on use, maintenance, and care of the BMW i8 as outlined in the owner’s manual or allowing someone other than an approved BMW PHEV Service Authorised Workshop to open or remove the high voltage battery will also void the warranty.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace the BMW i8 Battery if the Warranty is Voided or Expired?
The cost of replacing the BMW i8 battery can vary depending on several factors. According to some reports, the average cost of a replacement battery pack for the BMW i8 is around $10,000 to $15,000 (£8,000-£12,000).
However, this cost can increase or decrease depending on the specific model year and the dealership’s pricing.
Several factors can affect the cost of replacing the BMW i8 battery. Some of these factors include:
- Model Year: The cost of a battery replacement can vary depending on the model year of the BMW i8. The older the model, the more expensive it can be to replace the battery.
- Battery Capacity: The BMW i8 battery pack’s capacity can affect the cost of replacement. The higher the capacity, the more expensive it can be to replace the battery.
- Labor Cost: The cost of labor can also vary depending on the dealership or mechanic you choose to replace the battery.
Replacing the BMW i8 battery can be a costly affair, but there are ways to save money. Here are some tips to help you reduce the cost of battery replacement:
- Warranty: If your BMW i8 is still under warranty, you can get the battery replaced for free or at a reduced cost. Check your warranty to see if battery replacement is covered.
- Independent Mechanic: Consider taking your BMW i8 to an independent mechanic instead of a dealership. Independent mechanics often charge less for labor, which can reduce the overall cost of battery replacement.
- DIY: If you have some technical knowledge and experience, you can replace the BMW i8 battery yourself. However, this is not recommended unless you are confident in your abilities
- Battery Refurbishing: This involves replacing the damaged or worn-out cells within the battery pack while keeping the rest of the pack intact. Refurbishing can be a cost-effective way to extend the life of the battery. The cost of refurbishing can vary, but it is generally cheaper than purchasing a brand new battery.
- Aftermarket Batteries: These batteries are typically produced by third-party manufacturers and are designed to be compatible with the BMW i8. However, it is essential to research and ensure that the aftermarket battery is of high quality and will not cause any damage to your vehicle.
How to Prolong the Lifespan of the BMW i8 Battery?
To maximize the lifespan of the BMW i8 battery, owners need to understand how it works and how to take care of it properly. In this article section, we will explore some tips on how to prolong the lifespan of the BMW i8 battery.
- Follow Maintenance Schedule
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures
- Drive Regularly
- Monitor Battery Charge Level
- Use Regenerative Braking
- Minimize Use of Electrical Components