BMW i5 infotainment blackout driving owners crazy

Hey there! I can relate to your issue. I had a similar problem with my 2021 BMW iX3 last winter. The whole infotainment system went completely dark just like yours. I initially thought it was the CAN-BUS system, but after getting it properly diagnosed at a certified shop, it turned out to be a faulty main control module that handles the infotainment interface. In my case, they first tried the basic reset procedures, but when that didn't work, they had to replace the entire control unit. It was a serious repair that took about three days to complete because they needed to program and sync the new unit with the car's systems. I'd strongly recommend going to a certified BMW service center for this kind of issue. These modern EVs have complex integrated systems, and generic diagnostic tools often can't properly communicate with them. Also, in my experience, electrical issues that seem like bus communication problems are usually related to individual components or modules rather than the actual bus network. Don't waste time with regular shops, get it to someone who really knows these systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with right now. Really helpful to know about the control module being the culprit. Would you mind letting me know how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also curious if you've had any other electronic problems since they fixed it?

Hey again! Great news, I've had zero issues since getting it fixed! The repair totally sorted out that annoying control unit communication error. My wallet took a hit of 235 € for the fix, but honestly, it was worth every penny to have everything working properly again. Funny enough, they initially thought it was the CAN-BUS or MOST bus that was damaged, which usually isn't the real problem in these cases. The mechanic I went to really knew their stuff and got straight to the actual issue with the control module. I've put about 20,000 km on the car since the repair, and the infotainment system has been running smooth as butter. No more black screens, no freezing, nothing. It's like having a brand new system. One tip though, make sure whoever works on it knows these newer EV systems inside and out. These cars are basically computers on wheels now, and you need someone who really understands the electronic architecture. Let me know how your repair goes!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! I actually just got my car back from the shop yesterday. You were spot on about going to someone who knows these systems well. I ended up taking it to a certified EV specialist, and guess what? It was exactly the same issue you had, a faulty control module! The repair set me back about 300 €, which stung a bit, but after seeing how complex the whole system is, I get why. The mechanic was super thorough and showed me what was wrong. They had to do some serious programming after installing the new module, but it's working perfectly now. The funny part was watching them hook up all these fancy diagnostic tools, definitely not your regular oil change situation! Really glad I didn't waste time with my old mechanic who probably would've been scratching his head at all this high-tech stuff. Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction. Fingers crossed it stays trouble-free like yours has!