2018 BMW I3 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 BMW i3 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 BMW i3 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 BMW i3 engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2018 BMW i3 engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2018 BMW i3, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for error codes using a diagnostic scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's computer system. Next, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, since any malfunction here can disrupt fuel delivery and lead to stalling. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, as faulty parts can cause misfires. Additionally, ensure that the air intake system is clear of obstructions, as a clogged air filter can hinder engine performance. Don't overlook the importance of checking various sensors, such as the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, since their failure can also contribute to stalling. Lastly, evaluate the battery's health to confirm it is supplying adequate power to the vehicle's electrical systems. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the stalling issue in your BMW i3.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 BMW i3?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2018 BMW i3, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is battery malfunction; a failing battery can disrupt the power supply necessary for the vehicle's electric systems, leading to stalling. Additionally, issues with the charging system, such as a malfunctioning charger or a faulty charging port, can prevent the battery from maintaining adequate charge, resulting in engine shutdowns. Software glitches are another potential issue, as bugs in the vehicle's operating system can cause unexpected behavior, including stalling. Furthermore, sensor failures, particularly those related to throttle position or the engine management system, can miscommunicate critical data, leading to performance issues. Lastly, faulty components like the fuel pump, fuel injectors, or ignition system can also contribute to stalling. By systematically checking these areas, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and address the root causes of engine stalling in their BMW i3, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 BMW i3?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2018 BMW i3 is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, which is particularly dangerous in high-traffic situations or at high speeds, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this issue can exacerbate existing problems, potentially resulting in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Stalling may also indicate deeper mechanical or electrical faults that require professional diagnosis and repair to prevent further complications. Therefore, it is crucial for BMW i3 owners to prioritize resolving engine stalling issues promptly to ensure both their safety and the vehicle's reliability.

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