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KurtKrauser

BMW i3 Multiple Warning Lights and Spongy Brakes Alert

Hey all! Need some advice about my 2022 BMW i3 Hybrid (135,958 KM). My brake pedal feels weird and spongy lately, and my dashboard looks like a Christmas tree with multiple warning lights (brake, ESP, ABS, and steering) all coming on at once. I'm suspecting worn brake pads but had a terrible experience with my last mechanic, so I'm hesitant about where to go. Has anyone dealt with similar warning lights and brake issues on their i3? Would love to hear about your experiences and trusted mechanic recommendations. Thanks!

Summary of the thread

A 2022 BMW i3 Hybrid owner experienced a spongy brake pedal and multiple warning lights, including brake, ESP, ABS, and steering. Initially suspecting worn brake pads, the issue was later identified as a problem with the battery management system and voltage, affecting multiple systems. The solution involved a visit to a certified BMW service center, where a complete system reset, brake fluid flush, and component repairs were performed. The repairs resolved the warning lights and brake issues, restoring the vehicle's performance and safety.

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4 comment(s)

AlfredWeissFan

Had the same issue with my 2019 BMW i8 Hybrid at 142K kilometers. Started with a spongy brake pedal and all those warning lights you mentioned. Took it to the garage last month, turned out it wasn't just brake pads. The diagnostic showed an undervoltage problem in the battery management system, which was affecting the brake servo and stability systems. They had to recalibrate the entire brake system and replace the voltage regulator. It was a serious issue since it impacted multiple safety systems. The fix involved a full day at the shop, they needed to reset the control modules and do a complete brake fluid flush too. Would definitely recommend getting it checked at a certified BMW service center since it's dealing with both conventional and regenerative braking systems. These hybrid-specific issues need proper diagnostic tools and expertise. Don't wait on this one, when multiple warning lights show up together, it's usually more than just worn brake pads.

KurtKrauser (community.author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful to know it was related to the battery system. I'm going to schedule an appointment with a certified BMW shop tomorrow morning. By the way, did you remember roughly how much the whole repair ended up costing you? And has everything been running smoothly since the fix?

AlfredWeissFan

Hey again! Yes, absolutely, since getting it fixed everything's been running perfectly on my i8. The spongy brake feeling is completely gone, and my dashboard is back to normal without any warning lights. The total came to 240 € for sorting out the undervoltage issue. Honestly, I was relieved it wasn't more expensive, given how complex these hybrid systems can be. They did find and fix some worn brake components while they were at it, which was a bonus. Just make sure you emphasize all those warning lights when you take it in, it really helps them pinpoint the issue faster. My car's been running like a dream for the past few weeks since the repair. The brakes feel nice and firm again, and the regenerative braking system is working exactly as it should. Let me know how you get on with the BMW shop. Always good to share experiences with these issues since they can be pretty specific to our hybrid models!

KurtKrauser (community.author)

Just wanted to update everyone on my BMW i3 situation. Finally got it checked out at the certified BMW shop, and boy, am I glad I listened to your advice! Turns out it wasn't just the brake pads after all. The mechanic found similar issues with the battery management system and voltage problems that were messing with multiple systems. The repair took about 6 hours, and while it cost a bit more than I expected (around 300 €), it was totally worth it. They did a complete system reset, brake fluid flush, and fixed some worn components they spotted during inspection. The best part? My dashboard is no longer lighting up like a Christmas tree, and the brake pedal feels solid again. This experience definitely taught me not to put off these warning signs, especially with hybrid systems. Really appreciate everyone's input, it helped me avoid what could've become a much bigger problem. Car's running great now, and I feel much safer driving it!

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BMW

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I3