Factory specifications, fluid capacities, torque values, EPA fuel economy and the federal safety record for the 2021 i3s.
The 2021 BMW i3s Electric relies exclusively on its electric engine for propulsion, yet an examination of its reliability data reveals a complicated ownership reality underscored by 31 total owner complaints and a notable 9 recalls. These issues predominantly stem from the vehicle's electrical system, which stands as the top complaint area for this specific model year. Consequently, this concentration of documented faults places the 2021 i3s in a precarious position within the model's broader reliability history, meaning that researchers must weigh its electric powertrain identity against significant systemic vulnerabilities.
Replacement part sizes and factory part numbers — battery, bulbs, filters and belts.
From the factory this vehicle uses OE oil filter 11427673541. Each part links to every other vehicle that shares it, so a part you already stock may fit more of your fleet than you'd expect.
| Engine oil filter | 11427673541 |
| Engine air filter | 13718603090 |
| Spark plug | 12122357197 |
| Battery | 61219321815 |
| Front wiper blades | 61615A87368 |
| Cabin air filter | 64316835406 alt 64316835405 |
Capacities, torques and tune-up values from the factory service manual.
This engine DOT 4 brake fluid.
| Brake Fluid | DOT 4 |
| Clutch Fluid | DOT 4 |
| Power Steering Fluid | ATF |
| Refrigerant | R1234yf |
| Oil Group | PAG |
| Oil Type | 46YF |
| 1 | 37.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 155° | 37 ft. lbs |
Owner-reported issues, recalls, investigations and service bulletins on record with NHTSA — an unfiltered look at what owners actually experience.
Owner complaints about the 2021 BMW i3s lead in one area — the electrical system, 8 of 31 reports (26%), well ahead of the next concern. NHTSA has issued no recalls for this vehicle, so these are owner-reported concerns only. 1 of the reports describe a crash and 3 a fire — a small share of the total, but worth weighing against the electrical system pattern above. These are tallies of what owners actually reported to the federal government, not an editorial score — and higher-selling models naturally rack up more reports.
All 31 complaints on record, top 8 components.
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation complaint database.
No recall campaigns on record with NHTSA for this vehicle as of the last data refresh.
Showing 5 of 228 bulletins on record with NHTSA.
| Bulletin | Date | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| B010324 | 2026-05-06 | Engine | The EVAP systems purge (vent) valve limited warranty for defects in materials or… |
| B010325 | 2026-03-06 | Structure | The Radiator Grilles Lower Active Air Flap Assembly limited warranty for defects in… |
| B410725 | 2025-08-20 | Structure | While driving on a smooth and/or uneven road, a “cracking” sound is heard from the rear… |
| B720225 | 2025-06-11 | Air Bags | The Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Front Passenger’s Seat Occupancy Capacitive… |
| B010825 | 2025-05-13 | Structure | A vehicle listed above may arrive with a Check Control Message (CCM), and/or malfunction… |
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NHTSA lists 9 recall campaign(s) for this model year. Check your specific vehicle by VIN.