BMW i3 Hybrid Problems: Check Engine Light + Power Loss

Hey there! I have some experience working on hybrid cars, and I actually dealt with a similar issue on my 2016 BMW i8 last year. My also owns a BMW iX, so I'm quite familiar with these models. Like you, I had the engine light pop up and noticed the car felt sluggish. Initially, I thought it was the battery, but after taking it to my trusted workshop, they diagnosed a faulty intake air temperature sensor. The repair was straightforward, they replaced the sensor and cleared the error codes. Cost me around 155 Euro, and the car's been running perfectly since then. Before I share more specifics about my repair experience, could you share: What error code are you getting? When did you first notice the power loss? Have you noticed any changes in fuel consumption? This would help me better understand if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for the detailed response! For reference, my i3 has 182596 KM on the clock, and the error code I'm getting is P0113. I started noticing the power loss about a week ago, and yes, my fuel consumption has increased by roughly 15-20%. The symptoms match exactly what you described with your i8. Did you notice any particular conditions when your issue was more pronounced? For me, it seems worse during cold starts. By the way, just had my service done last month, and everything was fine then, so this caught me off guard. Appreciate the repair cost info, that's actually not as bad as I was fearing. Did you get any warranty coverage for the repair?

Hey again! Yes, those symptoms sound exactly like what I experienced with my i8. Cold starts were definitely when it was most noticeable, the car felt particularly sluggish until it warmed up, which makes sense given it was the intake air temp sensor acting up. Mine also happened pretty suddenly after a routine service. I remember feeling quite frustrated because everything had been running smoothly before that. The P0113 code is the same one I got too, which basically confirms we're dealing with the same issue. I wasn't able to get warranty coverage since my car was already past the extended warranty period (had about 195000 KM at the time). But honestly, considering how much I was worried it might cost, the repair price was a relief. One thing I learned from my experience, don't wait too long to get it fixed. I tried to push through it for a couple of weeks, and the increased fuel consumption really wasn't worth the delay. Plus, running with faulty sensor readings isn't great for the engine in the long run. Have you scheduled a repair appointment yet? If you're handy with cars, you could technically do it yourself, but with these hybrid systems, I'd recommend getting it done professionally. The sensor replacement itself took my mechanic less than an hour once they had the part in hand.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience, it's really helpful knowing someone else went through the exact same thing! You're absolutely right about not waiting too long. After hearing about your experience and the relatively reasonable repair cost, I've actually just booked an appointment for tomorrow morning with my local BMW specialist. What you mentioned about the cold starts totally validates what I've been experiencing. I'm glad I didn't try to push through it like you did, that tip about increased fuel consumption and potential engine stress really hit home. Even though it's not covered under warranty, I guess 155 Euro isn't too bad considering what could've happened if left unchecked. Really appreciate all the detailed info you've shared. It's definitely put my mind at ease about the whole situation. I'll make sure to get that sensor replaced right away. Thanks again for taking the time to help out!