BYD Seal 6 DM-i 1.5 DM-i 80km Mk1

Multiple BYD DM-i platform owners have reported abnormal noises from the front suspension. The clicking is most noticeable during parking manoeuvres and low-speed sharp turns, and may also manifest as a knocking sound over bumps. Reported causes include CV joint tolerances, stabilizer bar end links, and in some cases wheel rim contact with the brake caliper under load. BYD dealers have replaced shock absorbers under warranty in several documented cases, though the fix does not always resolve the issue. Some owners have needed multiple service visits. The problem appears in both FWD and AWD variants. If caught under warranty, the repair is free. Out of warranty, replacing stabilizer links and CV joints typically costs between €200 and €800 depending on which components need attention.

BYD's DiLink infotainment platform controls climate, navigation, drive modes, and the reversing camera. When the screen freezes, owners can lose access to all these functions simultaneously. Reported symptoms include delayed touch response, apps failing to launch, wireless phone connectivity drops, and occasional full screen blackouts requiring a soft reset. Most issues can be resolved with OTA software updates or a system reboot, but persistent problems may need ECU reprogramming at a BYD dealer. The cost is typically covered under the 6-year warranty. Outside warranty, diagnostic and reprogramming fees run €100-200, though a faulty infotainment ECU replacement could reach €500.

Like many electrified vehicles, BYD DM-i models draw standby current from the 12V auxiliary battery to maintain systems like keyless entry, alarm, and the BMS. If the car is parked for more than a week without being driven, the 12V battery can drain enough to prevent the car from starting. BYD has acknowledged this as affecting a small percentage of vehicles. The solution is straightforward: a trickle charger (€30-50) keeps the battery healthy during extended parking. If the 12V battery itself degrades prematurely, replacement costs €150-300 including fitting.

BYD's ADAS camera and radar calibration was originally optimised for Chinese road conditions. In Europe and other export markets, some owners report overly sensitive lane departure warnings, unnecessary steering corrections, and false forward collision alerts. The system's camera calibration and software logic are not fully optimised for European road markings and typical driving patterns. BYD has addressed this progressively through software updates (Version 2.0.0 and later reduced sensitivity considerably). If the issue persists after updates, a workshop ADAS camera recalibration costs €150-400. This is largely a software maturity issue that improves with OTA updates.

BYD operates three parts warehouses in Europe (Netherlands, Sweden, UK), but the network is still maturing. Service parts and routine consumables are generally available within 1-2 working days. However, less common components (body panels, suspension arms, electronic modules) can take considerably longer. Some owners in Turkey and Southeast Asia have reported waiting 2-3 months for specific parts. European availability is improving but remains behind established brands like Toyota or Hyundai. The cost here is indirect: if the car is off the road waiting for parts, rental car costs can accumulate. For owners under warranty, BYD should provide courtesy vehicles, though this depends on the dealer.

The DM-i platform was tuned primarily for smooth urban driving, and the rear suspension can feel under-damped on undulating roads at highway speeds. Some owners describe a 'pogoing' effect after speed bumps. BYD introduced a revised 'European suspension tune' in late 2025 production, which improved damping significantly. Earlier cars can benefit from aftermarket shock absorbers with firmer damping rates. Replacing the rear shocks costs €300-700 depending on parts choice, though this is a comfort preference rather than a safety concern.

A small number of DM-i owners have reported intermittent failures when connecting to home AC chargers, particularly when using non-BYD-certified EVSE cables. Symptoms include charging not initiating, sessions interrupting after a few minutes, or the charge indicator showing errors. In most cases, using a different cable or EVSE unit resolves the problem. If the charging port actuator or control module is faulty, replacement under warranty is straightforward. Out of warranty, the parts and labor run €100-350.