BMW i3 Subwoofer Issues: Audio System Cutting Out Randomly

I've got some experience with car audio systems, and I actually faced a similar issue with my 2015 BMW i8 (my previous car before switching to a 5 series). The symptoms were nearly identical, unusual audio cuts and crackling sounds. Took it to my regular workshop and turns out the bass speaker was shot. They diagnosed it pretty quickly with their testing equipment. The repair, including parts and labor, set me back about 280 Euro, but it fixed the problem completely. Before spending money though, could you share: Have you noticed if the issue gets worse when going over bumps? Does it happen more often when it's humid or after washing the car? What's your audio source (radio, Bluetooth, USB)? This info would help determine if it's the same issue I had or something else entirely. Let me know these details, and I'll share more specifics about my repair!

Hey there! Mine's also at 110322 KM and just had its service last month. Had the exact same audio problems you're describing. Initially thought it was just the head unit acting up, but my mechanic found it was actually a loose connection in the amplifier wiring. The constant vibration from driving had worn down some of the connections over time. The repair was pretty straightforward, they cleaned the connections, secured everything properly, and double-checked the ground wires. Been working perfectly since then. Much cheaper fix than replacing the whole system, which is what I was worried about at first. If your symptoms match mine exactly, might be worth checking those connections before going for any major replacements. Hope this helps!

Hey again! Thanks for sharing those details about your car's mileage and the wiring fix. You know what's funny? When I had my i8 problem, I initially suspected the same thing, just the head unit being temperamental. But after reading about your experience with the loose connections, it makes total sense now. My repair shop actually replaced my bass speaker when they probably could've just checked the wiring first! I've been thinking about it, and those constant vibrations you mentioned definitely could've been the culprit in my case too. Most of my audio issues started after hitting that rough patch of road while on a long drive. Should've mentioned that earlier. Thanks for saving other i3 and i8 owners some cash with this info! Next time I have any audio issues, I'll definitely get the connections and ground wires checked first before jumping to replace parts. Really wish I'd known this before spending that 280 Euro on a new speaker! Just curious, since your repair, have you noticed any other electrical quirks? My car's been perfect since the speaker replacement, but it'd be good to know what to watch out for.

Thanks for asking about other electrical issues! Honestly, since getting those connections fixed, the car's been running like a dream. No other electrical problems at all. Looking back, I probably had those audio issues for longer than I needed to because I was worried it would be some expensive repair. Really glad I got it checked out when I did. Interesting to hear about your experience with the i8, sounds like we both learned something here! Those BMW audio systems are usually pretty solid, so when they act up, it's usually something fixable like what we both experienced. Sorry you had to shell out for a new speaker though. At least now we know to check the simple stuff first! Thanks for all the feedback on this. It's really helpful to compare notes with other BMW owners. If I run into any other quirks, I'll be sure to post about it. These cars can be tricky sometimes, but they're worth it when everything's running right!