BMW i8 Hybrid Error Messages, System Check Problems

Hey there! I have some experience working on hybrids. I drive a 2012 BMW i3, and my cousin owns a BMW i4. Last month, I had a similar issue with error messages popping up. Took it to my regular workshop, and they ran a full OBD2 diagnostic scan free of charge since I'm a regular customer. Turned out it was indeed related to the system readiness monitoring cycle. They cleared the codes and everything went back to normal. Could you share what specific error messages you're seeing? Also, have you noticed any changes in the car's performance or had any recent work done? This info would help me better understand if your situation matches what I experienced.

Thanks for sharing your experience! To add some context, my i8 has 24243 KM on the clock and was last serviced 3 months ago. The main error message I'm seeing is "Drivetrain malfunction" along with a yellow warning light. The car still drives, but feels a bit sluggish, especially when switching between electric and petrol modes. Haven't had any recent work done besides regular maintenance. You mentioned your diagnostic scan was related to system readiness, did they have to do any recalibration or was clearing the codes enough to fix it?

Hey again! Yes, I remember helping you with this issue. When I had that similar problem with my i8, clearing the codes alone wasn't actually enough, though initially, we thought it might be. After the first attempt of just clearing the codes, the warnings came back within a day or two. My workshop ended up having to do a full recalibration of the hybrid system, particularly focusing on the transition module between electric and petrol modes. The sluggish performance you're describing is exactly what I experienced, that hesitation when switching between power sources was really annoying. The full fix included recalibrating the power management system and updating some software. Cost me about 2 hours of labor, but it's been running smoothly for the past 8 months since then. Given your symptoms sound identical to what I dealt with, I'd recommend asking your workshop specifically about the hybrid system recalibration rather than just going for a simple code clear. Also, try to note down exactly when the sluggishness occurs, like if it's worse when the battery is at a certain level or during specific driving conditions. This really helped my mechanic pinpoint the issue faster. Let me know how it goes!

Thanks so much for the detailed response! That's really helpful, especially knowing that a simple code clear might not be enough. You've actually made me feel better about the whole situation since your symptoms were so similar to mine. I've been keeping notes about when the sluggishness occurs, and you're right, it's definitely worse when the battery is around 20% and the car needs to switch to petrol mode. I'll take it to my workshop tomorrow and specifically ask about the hybrid system recalibration and software updates you mentioned. The 2-hour labor time gives me a good idea of what to expect too. I really appreciate you sharing your experience in such detail, particularly about the transition module between electric and petrol modes. I'll update you once I get it sorted. Thanks again for taking the time to help out a fellow BMW hybrid owner!

Hi, I bought a BMW i8 with a broken engine. I bought a 1.5 gasoline combustion engine for the BMW i8, installed it, but the car won't start. Many error messages appear, and it won't let me charge the battery. Hybrid. Any advice please? Many thanks, friends.

(Translated from Spanish)

Hi, I bought a BMW i8 with a broken engine. I bought a BMW i8 1.5 petrol combustion engine, I fitted it but the car won't start, I'm getting a lot of errors and it won't let me charge the battery. Hybrid, any advice please, thank you very much friends

(Translated from Spanish)

Start by checking all electrical connections to ensure they are properly secured and connected, especially those related to the engine and hybrid system. Verify that the engine control unit (ECU) is compatible with the new engine and properly programmed. If the issue persists, consider having a professional perform a diagnostic scan to identify specific error codes. Let me know how it goes or if you have further questions!

Check all electrical connections to ensure they are properly secured and connected, especially those related to the engine and hybrid system. Verify that the engine control unit (ECU) is compatible with the new engine and properly programmed. If the issue persists, consider having a professional perform a diagnostic scan to identify specific error codes. Let me know how it goes or if you have further questions!

Thank you for answering. Yes, I checked twice, all components are fine, all plugs are well connected. I'm getting many errors. One of the errors is: 22200D Permanent Information, (E)DME: No signal But the strange thing is that it won't let me charge the car; it says "interrupted charge". The car has been parked for more than two years. I wanted to program it. Some friends told me that the control unit needs to be linked with the hybrid system, but I don't know anyone here in Madrid. I'm thinking of taking it to the BMW dealership, but they're going to charge me a fortune, so I don't know what to do.

(Translated from Spanish)

The error code 22200D indicates a communication issue with the Digital Motor Electronics (DME), which could be causing the starting and charging problems. Since the car has been parked for over two years, the battery might also be deeply discharged, affecting the hybrid system's functionality. I recommend having a professional with experience in BMW hybrids perform a diagnostic scan to ensure the DME is correctly programmed and linked to the hybrid system. This is crucial for safety and proper operation. If possible, try to find a reputable independent BMW specialist in your area who might offer a more cost-effective solution than the dealership. Let me know if you have further questions or need more guidance!