2003-2008 BMW Z4: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to BMW Z Series
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our reliability study for this generation BMW Z Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation BMW Z Series .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Battery:
The battery may die overnight if the key is left in the ignition on vehicles with electronic immobilizer system. (2004-06)
Battery:
If a batter charger is connected directly to the battery, it can trigger a trouble code on cars with the intelligent battery sensor. Battery chargers should be connected to the terminal under the hood, not the battery itself. (2003-05)
Electrical problem:
Due to a bad sensor, an erroneous low oil warning was coming on when the key was turned off and the company was replacing the sensor only if a customer complained. (2003)
Engine knock:
Engine may run rough and trigger the check engine light due to defective ignition coils. Only BRMEI coils, not Bosch, were affected. (2003)
Keyless entry:
The remote keyless entry may not unlock the doors and is usually due to lack of use of the key, particularly the spare key, as the battery is recharged by the vehicle. (2003-05)
None:
There was a service campaign to repair the telematics control unit (TCU) because it would go into the wrong mode at below freezing (32 degrees F) resulting in no telematics and possible battery discharge. (2004)
Oil leak:
Oil may leak from the cylinder head and/or valve cover gasket into the #2 spark plug well due to porosity in the M54 engine head casting requiring replacement (2003)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $890 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,195 |
| Brakes | $945 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $760 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $5,325 |
| Exhaust System | $925 |
| Radiator | $965 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $3,600 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $665 |
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
