BMW 4 EV Won't Start, Transmission & ECU Issues Alert

Hey there! I have some experience with EVs and had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW i4 (also have an iX in the garage). Last year, my i4 showed similar symptoms, wouldn't start properly and had rough operation. Turned out the control unit was defective and needed replacement. Took it to my regular workshop, and they diagnosed it after running comprehensive tests. The fix wasn't cheap, set me back about 1000 Euro, but it solved all those issues completely. Before I can offer more specific advice, could you share: Which error codes you're getting? When did these symptoms first appear? Any recent software updates? Just want to make sure it's the same issue I dealt with before suggesting anything specific.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My BMW is sitting at 194002 KM and had its last service just three months ago. After reading your response, I'm pretty sure we're dealing with the same problem. I'm getting error code P0897, and the symptoms started showing up suddenly last week. No recent software updates that I'm aware of. Definitely sounds like the control unit issue you mentioned. Really appreciate the heads up about the repair costs, helps me prepare for what's coming. Will schedule an appointment with the service center tomorrow. Thanks again for your help!

Hey again! Thanks for providing those details. You're absolutely right, that P0897 code on your BMW is exactly what I faced with my i4. Actually, the symptoms appearing suddenly is another match with my experience. Given your mileage and the error code, I'm now even more convinced it's the same control unit issue I dealt with. Just a heads up based on my experience, when they replaced my control unit, they also had to recalibrate a few other systems. The whole process took about 2-3 days, so you might want to arrange alternative transport. One thing I learned after my repair, it's worth asking them to check the wiring harness too. In my case, they found some minor wear that could have caused future problems. Didn't cost much extra to fix it while they were in there. Let me know how it goes at the service center. If you get a different diagnosis, I'd be really interested to hear about it. Just make sure they do a full diagnostic scan, sometimes these symptoms can be misleading!

Thanks so much for all this detailed follow-up! Really helpful to know about the potential 2-3 day repair timeline, I'll definitely arrange for alternative transport. Good call on the wiring harness check too, I'll make sure to mention that when I take it in. I've already called the service center and got an appointment for next week. Looking at the cost you mentioned earlier, I'm actually relieved since I was worried it might be something more serious and expensive. Will keep you posted about what they find during the diagnostic scan. It's been super helpful having someone who's gone through the same issue, takes some of the stress out of the situation. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience and all these extra details. I'll update you once I get the car back from service!