Video Summary
- The BMW i3 charging port flap will not open unless the vehicle is unlocked. Lightly pushing the door in will open it. A white light will illuminate when the charging cable can be connected or removed.- The white light turns yellow during the charging initialization. The light turns blue when the initialization phase is complete. A flashing blue light indicates that the vehicle is charging. A steady blue light means initialization and charging start times are scheduled. A green light means the battery is fully charged. A flashing red light means there is a fault in the charging process.
- Disconnecting and reconnecting the charging cable can fix the charging process. If the error continues, contacting the BMW center is recommended.
- The i3 comes with a standard occasional use cable for Level 1 charging, using a 120-volt standard household outlet. This method is best for topping off the battery and takes over 20 hours to fully charge the i3.
- Level 2 charging can be done with a home-installed Level 2 charging station, such as the BMW i Charging Station that can charge an empty i3 in about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
- The charging settings in the i3 can be adjusted using the iDrive system by selecting settings and then charging, with preferences for when charging should begin. Low cost charging gives flexibility to control when charging begins or schedule charging to reduced rates.
- The car's AC charging power settings, for Level 1 and Level 2, can be displayed. For standard charging with the occasional use cable, select Level 1. The AC charging power can be set to maximum, reduced, or low.
- DC fast charging will charge the i3 up to 80% in only 20 to 30 minutes with a 480-volt DC plug. It is typically available only at public charging stations. A DC fast charging port was optional for the 2014 model year, but standard from 2015. The BMW i3 fast charger is not compatible with other non-SAE DC standards.
- BMW i owners are provided two complimentary ChargeNow cards. ChargeNow, coupled with the ChargePoint network, facilitates access to charging stations. The ChargeNow website can be used to locate participating stations.
- Public charging stations can be located using the iDrive system by selecting navigation, points of interest, and then charging stations.
- The BMW Connected app offers access to mobility-relevant information, remote controls, climate control activation, the vehicle’s location, and tire pressure.
