The BMW iX Years To Avoid
We've identified just two BMW iX years to avoid based on commonly-reported issues, consumer complaints, and recalls.
The BMW iX stands as the brand’s first purpose-built electric vehicle aimed squarely at the mainstream audience. Unlike the i3 and i8, which were niche models, and the i4, which shares its chassis with the gas-powered 3 Series, the iX is exclusively an electric vehicle. This midsize crossover caters to the growing demand for electric-powered cars in the American luxury market.
Moreover, its design is striking (or polarizing, depending on who you ask), featuring minimalist light fixtures, a prominent grille, and cohesive details that give it a balanced yet commanding presence.
However, not all years of the BMW iX have been received favorably, with some models experiencing issues that potential buyers should be aware of.
Evaluating BMW’s Reliability
It’s safe to say that most BMW buyers don’t expect much in terms of reliability. After all, you’re buying a luxury vehicle with lots of high-end features and creature comforts. That said, let’s take a step back and evaluate the overall reliability of the BMW brand.
According to RepairPal, BMW’s reputation for reliability is a bit of a mixed bag, with a rating of just 2.5 out of 5.0 across 345 models. On average, BMW owners can expect to visit the repair shop about 0.9 times yearly, shelling out $968 annually for maintenance and repairs. That’s nearly $300 more than the average across all car brands. Plus, there’s a 15% chance that any given repair will be severe, which could put a serious dent in your wallet.
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Which BMW iX Years to Avoid?
Launched with the 2022 model year, the BMW iX is a significant step by the German automaker in expanding its EV offerings. However, like most luxury EVs, the iX has some more problematic years than others.
2022 BMW iX
At CoPilot, we generally recommend that buyers avoid the first model year of any new vehicle or generation. This advice is based on the fact that new models often have kinks and issues that need to be worked out, which can lead to reliability problems and expensive repairs down the line. That certainly is the case with the 2022 iX. Below are the reliability woes you may encounter with this model year.
Electrical System Issues
The 2022 BMW iX, an electric SUV, has been the subject of several complaints regarding its electrical system. One owner reported a complete loss of power while driving, causing the vehicle to stop. Another driver experienced reduced battery capacity and a burning odor, but parts for the recall repair were unavailable.
These issues have raised concerns about the reliability of the iX’s electrical system. BMW issued a recall to address the problem, but the lack of available parts left some owners without their vehicles for an extended period. While these issues are concerning, remember that not all iX owners have experienced electrical vehicle problems.
Forward Collision Avoidance Problems
The vehicle’s Forward Collision Avoidance system is another common pain point for iX owners. The NHTSA has received numerous complaints of the feature acting up, which seriously compromises the vehicle’s safety.
One particularly disturbing incident involved a BMW iX that allegedly reversed out of a garage, crossed the street, and crashed into a neighbor’s parked vehicle. The owner claimed that the collision avoidance system failed to activate during this incident, which fortunately did not result in any injuries.
Another owner reported experiencing sudden and unexpected failures of the safety system while driving, potentially putting themselves and others at risk. They attributed these issues to faulty software provided by Green Hill Software, which is integral to the functioning of the vehicle’s safety systems.
If you’re serious about the safety of your vehicle, the 2022 model is undoubtedly one of the worst BMW iX years to avoid.
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Vehicle Speed Control Issues
Some owners have complained about the 2022 BMW iX’s “B” drive mode, which offers one-pedal driving with automatic regenerative braking. In this mode, drivers have reported that the vehicle occasionally lunges forward when the pedal is completely released instead of slowing down or stopping as expected.
This issue has been experienced by multiple owners, often at low speeds in parking lots. In some cases, unexpected acceleration has occurred while the vehicle is navigating a turn.
2023 BMW iX
With 10 recalls (so far), it’s easy to see why it’s hard to recommend the 2023 model, which now appears on this list of the BMW iX years to avoid.
Faulty Forward Collision Avoidance System (Again!)
Once again, the Forward Collision Avoidance system is at the center of complaints, with owners reporting unexpected and potentially dangerous behavior.
In a recurring problem from the 2022 model year, drivers have experienced sudden and unwarranted braking when overtaking cars on the freeway. Without any warning or information displayed, the iX abruptly decelerates by 3 to 5 mph, forcing drivers to quickly compensate with the accelerator pedal. This issue has occurred numerous times for some owners, with one reporting 8 to 10 instances over 14,000 miles.
Recalls Galore
As mentioned, the 2023 iX has ten recalls under its belt, making it an easy pick as one of the worst BMW iX years to avoid.
One important recall concerns the high-voltage battery combined charging unit (CCU), which may have been improperly manufactured. This issue can cause the CCU components to be incorrectly connected or assembled, leading to an engine stall and increasing the risk of a crash. To address this, BMW dealers will replace the CCU at no cost.
Another critical recall involves the high-voltage battery cells. Manufacturing defects could lead to a short circuit, posing a risk of battery fires. Affected battery cells are being replaced to ensure safety.
The cruise control system has also been a source of concern, with reports indicating it may activate unexpectedly while driving. Such unexpected activation increases the risk of a crash, and BMW has addressed this issue through a necessary software update.
And these are just a fraction of the recalls for this particular EV. For a complete list of 2023 BMW iX recalls, please visit the car’s NHTSA page.
ARE BMWS EXPENSIVE TO MAINTAIN?
Are BMWs expensive to maintain? What can you expect when it comes to maintaining a BMW? What are the typical services you’ll need as an owner?
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