BMW i3 Parking Brake Failure & Multiple System Alerts

Hey there! I had a pretty similar issue with my 2020 BMW i4 Hybrid last year (also own a BMW iX). I have some experience working on cars, but brake systems aren't my forte, especially with these complex hybrid systems. When my electronic parking brake started acting up, along with hill assist malfunctions and warning lights, it turned out to be a faulty electric motor in the brake caliper. My trusted workshop diagnosed it after running some tests. The repair took about a day and cost me 505 Euro, not cheap, but it fixed all the related issues. Before diving into potential solutions, could you share: How many miles/kilometers on your i3? When did these symptoms first appear? Are you getting any specific error messages? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My i3 has 15109 KM and just had its service last month. The symptoms started showing up about a week ago. I'm getting error messages for "Parking brake malfunction" and "Driver assistance systems inactive" on the display. Based on what you're describing, it does sound pretty similar to what I'm experiencing. The electronic motor in the brake caliper definitely seems like it could be the culprit. I'll have to get it checked out by a certified workshop to be sure. Really appreciate the detailed explanation of what you went through, helps narrow down the possible causes!

Hey again! Thanks for confirming those details about your i3. You know, after hearing about your mileage and the timing of the symptoms, I'm even more convinced it's the same brake caliper motor issue I dealt with. It's interesting that yours started acting up right after a service though, mine just went out of the blue. Since you mentioned getting the same error messages I had, I should add that after my repair, I learned these electronic brake calipers can sometimes fail due to moisture getting into the motor housing. The mechanic who fixed mine showed me the corroded connections inside the old unit. Quick tip from my experience, when you take it in, ask them to check the wiring harness too. Initially, my workshop only replaced the motor, but we found some minor wiring damage that needed fixing as well. Saved me from potential future headaches. The good news is that once it's properly fixed, it should be good for a long while. My i4 hasn't had any brake-related issues since the repair last year. Just make sure you get it done at a certified place, these hybrid systems are pretty complex and you want someone who knows what they're doing. Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out!

Thanks so much for the additional details and tips! That's really helpful info about the moisture issue and checking the wiring harness, I'll definitely mention both when I take it in. I've already called a certified workshop and booked an appointment for next week. It's reassuring to hear your i4 has been problem-free since the repair. I was worried this might be a recurring issue, but it sounds like once it's properly fixed, I should be good to go. I'll probably have to shell out a fair bit for the repair, but it's better than dealing with unreliable brakes and constant warning messages. Really appreciate all your insights, it's made me feel much more confident about what to expect and what to ask the mechanics to check. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience in such detail!