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haraldnacht1

BMW i8 Ignition Woes: Fix Before Complete Failure?

Shaking while idling

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Car won't start

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Engine shuts off by itself

BMW i8 Ignition Switch Issues, Need Advice from Other Owners Hey everyone! My 2018 BMW i8 hybrid (102k km) is giving me headaches. The engine either won't start, out of nowhere shuts off, or runs really rough when it does work. I'm suspicious it might be the ignition switch, but after a previous disappointing mechanic experience, I want to be better prepared this time. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms in their i8? What was the actual problem and how much did the repair cost? Also, would love recommendations on how to handle the mechanic situation to avoid getting overcharged or receiving poor service. Thanks in advance!

4 comment(s)


clarablitz4

Hey there! I own a 2015 BMW i3 and faced similar issues last year. After troubleshooting, it turned out the main fuse box had corroded connections affecting the ignition system. The symptoms were identical, unusual shutoffs, rough starts, and occasional complete failure to start. The mechanics initially suspected the starter motor, but a thorough diagnostic revealed the fuse issue. The repair wasn't particularly complex, but it required special attention due to the hybrid system's integration. The technician had to clean the connections, replace several fuses, and recalibrate the system. Good thing I caught it early, if left unchecked, it could have damaged the car's electrical system. Quick tip: Make sure to get a full diagnostic scan before any repairs. Given the i8's sophisticated electronics, what seems like an ignition switch problem could be related to various other systems. Ask the mechanic to show you the diagnostic results and explain their repair plan before proceeding. Also, in my experience, going to a BMW-certified shop is worth it for these electrical issues, especially with hybrid models. They have the right diagnostic tools and expertise.

haraldnacht1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing that! My symptoms do sound pretty similar to what you experienced. Just curious, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole fix? And has everything been running smoothly since, or have you noticed any other electrical quirks popping up? I'm definitely taking your advice about getting that diagnostic scan first. I actually just called a certified BMW shop this morning to schedule it. Really don't want to mess around with these complex hybrid systems.

clarablitz4

Hey again! Good to hear back from you! Yeah, after getting my i3 fixed up, it's been running like a dream! The repair totally sorted out those annoying ignition problems, no more unusual shutoffs or rough starts. The whole thing, including diagnostic work and fixing that corroded fuse box, came to 52€. Pretty reasonable, considering how worried I was it might be something major! Haven't spotted any electrical gremlins since then either, everything's working exactly as it should. Actually, the car feels more responsive than before, which was a nice bonus! Honestly, getting it properly diagnosed at a certified shop was the best move I could've made. These hybrid systems are too complex to mess around with unusual fixes. Smart move booking that diagnostic scan! You're definitely on the right track there. Keep us posted on what they find, always interested to hear how these things turn out for other BMW hybrid owners.

haraldnacht1 (Author)

Just wanted to update everyone, got my i8 back from the shop yesterday! Turns out you were spot on about getting that diagnostic scan. The mechanic found a similar issue with corroded connections, but in my case, it was affecting multiple systems. Had to replace a couple of connectors and clean up the whole electrical assembly. The bill came to a bit more than yours, around 800 bucks, but honestly, I'm just relieved it wasn't something worse. The car's running beautifully now, way better than before. Started up perfectly this morning, and the engine's running super smooth. That certified shop recommendation was golden! The mechanics really knew their stuff and walked me through everything they were doing. Such a different experience from my last repair attempt. Guess sometimes you really do get what you pay for with these high-tech cars. Thanks again for helping me avoid what could've been a much bigger headache! Think I'll stick with this shop for future maintenance too, they definitely earned my trust.

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