BMW Z4 (2003-08)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The BMW Z4, while a stylish and high-performance sports car, has some common faults reported by owners. Here are a few:

1. **Steering Wheel Clunks**: This issue is often reported in models from 2003 to 2008. Drivers experience a jolt or clunk from the steering wheel, sometimes accompanied by a cracking noise when driving in reverse.
2. **Engine Misfiring**: Some Z4 owners have reported engine misfiring, often due to a faulty DISA valve. This issue can usually be resolved by replacing the valve.
3. **Convertible Top Issues**: The convertible top can become sluggish or stop working altogether, especially in older models. This is often due to water seeping into trunk seals, causing damage to the roof's hydraulics and electronics.
4. **Power Steering Failure**: Some Z4 models have experienced power steering failure, making the steering much heavier.
5. **Electrical Gremlins**: Various electrical issues have been reported, including problems with the car not starting, flickering instrument cluster lights, and the engine cutting out while driving.

These are some of the common issues that Z4 owners have encountered. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these problems can help keep your Z4 running smoothly.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The BMW Z4 has gone through three generations since its introduction in 2002:

1. **First Generation (E85/E86, 2002-2008)**:
- **Trim Levels**: Z4 2.0i, Z4 2.2i, Z4 2.5i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 M Roadster, Z4 M Coupé

2. **Second Generation (E89, 2009-2016)**:
- **Trim Levels**: Z4 sDrive18i, Z4 sDrive20i, Z4 sDrive23i, Z4 sDrive28i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 sDrive35i, Z4 sDrive35is

3. **Third Generation (G29, 2018-Present)**:
- **Trim Levels**: Z4 sDrive20i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i

Each generation brought its own set of improvements and refinements, making the Z4 a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/bmw/z4-roadster/).
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Engines
The BMW Z4 has been offered with a variety of engines across its three generations. Here are the engine options for each generation:

### First Generation (E85/E86, 2002-2008)
1. **2.0L Inline-4**: 150 hp
2. **2.2L Inline-6**: 170 hp
3. **2.5L Inline-6**: 189 hp
4. **2.5si Inline-6**: 215 hp
5. **3.0L Inline-6**: 231 hp
6. **3.0si Inline-6**: 261 hp
7. **3.2L Inline-6** (M Roadster and M Coupé): 338 hp

### Second Generation (E89, 2009-2016)
1. **sDrive18i 2.0L Inline-4**: 154 hp
2. **sDrive20i 2.0L Inline-4**: 181 hp
3. **sDrive23i 2.5L Inline-6**: 201 hp
4. **sDrive28i 2.0L Inline-4**: 242 hp
5. **sDrive30i 3.0L Inline-6**: 255 hp
6. **sDrive35i 3.0L Inline-6**: 302 hp
7. **sDrive35is 3.0L Inline-6**: 335 hp

### Third Generation (G29, 2018-Present)
1. **sDrive20i 2.0L Inline-4**: 197 hp
2. **sDrive30i 2.0L Inline-4**: 255 hp
3. **M40i 3.0L Inline-6**: 382 hp

These engines provided a range of performance options, catering to different driving preferences and needs 2.5i Specs - Ultimate Specs](https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/5173/BMW-Z4-Roadster-%28E85%29-25i.html).
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Performance
The first generation of the BMW Z4 (E85/E86, 2002-2008) offered a range of performance options depending on the engine. Here are the key performance figures for each engine:

1. **2.0L Inline-4**:
- Power: 150 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 8.2 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 137 mph

2. **2.2L Inline-6**:
- Power: 170 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.7 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 140 mph

3. **2.5L Inline-6**:
- Power: 189 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.9 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 146 mph

4. **2.5si Inline-6**:
- Power: 215 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 149 mph

5. **3.0L Inline-6**:
- Power: 231 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.9 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 155 mph

6. **3.0si Inline-6**:
- Power: 261 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.6 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 155 mph

7. **3.2L Inline-6** (M Roadster and M Coupé):
- Power: 338 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 4.8 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 155 mph (electronically limited)

These performance figures made the first-generation BMW Z4 a versatile sports car, catering to a wide range of driving preferences and needs.
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Rivals
Here are the performance figures for some of the main rivals of the first-generation BMW Z4 (2002-2008):

1. **Mazda MX-5**:
- Engine: 1.8L Inline-4
- Power: 146 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.9 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 127 mph

2. **Mercedes-Benz SLK**:
- Engine: 2.3L Supercharged Inline-4
- Power: 190 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.2 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 143 mph

3. **Porsche Boxster**:
- Engine: 2.7L Flat-6
- Power: 228 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.4 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 155 mph

4. **Audi TT Roadster**:
- Engine: 1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Power: 225 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.4 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 151 mph

5. **Honda S2000**:
- Engine: 2.0L Inline-4
- Power: 240 hp
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.0 seconds
- Top Speed: Around 150 mph

These performance figures highlight the competitive nature of the sports car market during that era, with each model offering a unique blend of power and handling.
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Designer/Dimensions
The first-generation BMW Z4 (E85/E86) was designed by **Anders Warming** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4_%28E85%29).

Here are the dimensions of the first-generation BMW Z4:
- **Length**: 4,090 mm (161.0 inches)
- **Width**: 1,780 mm (70.1 inches)
- **Height**: 1,300 mm (51.2 inches) for the roadster, 1,285 mm (50.6 inches) for the coupé
- **Wheelbase**: 2,495 mm (98.2 inches)
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Spares
You can find spares for the BMW Z4 in the UK and Ireland at several specialized suppliers. Here are a few options:

1. **[Euro Car Parts](https://www.eurocarparts.com/)**: They offer a wide range of parts for the BMW Z4, including brakes, service parts, and interior trim.
2. **[BMW Parts Online](https://www.bmwpartsonline.co.uk/)**: An online store with a comprehensive catalog of car parts for the BMW Z4.
3. **[BMW Spare Parts](https://www.bmw-spare-parts.co.uk/bmw-cars/Z4)**: They provide new and used parts for the BMW Z4 series, including the 3.0 CSi.
4. **[Auto Parts Pro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/bmw-z4-carparts)**: They offer a wide range of original car spares for the BMW Z4 at competitive prices.

These suppliers should have the parts you need to keep your BMW Z4 in top condition.
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Specialists NI
There are several specialist garage services available in Northern Ireland. Here are a few options:

1. **[Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist](https://www.stephen-groves.co.uk/)**: Located in Hillsborough, they offer top-class garage services for Jaguars and cater to customers across Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Hillsborough, and Lisburn.
2. **[McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)**: Based in Antrim, they are Ireland’s leading independent Porsche service specialist. They also have expertise in brands like Audi, Mercedes, Lamborghini, Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW, Ferrari, Maserati, Aston Martin, and Bentley.
3. **[Burnside Garage Ltd](https://www.burnsidegarage.co.uk/)**: Located in Coleraine, they are Northern Ireland's leading automatic transmission repair specialists and offer a wide range of garage services.

These garages should be able to provide the specialist services you need for your vehicle.
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Racing
The BMW Z4 did compete in racing. It was particularly successful in the **FIA GT Championship** and the **American Le Mans Series** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4_%28E85%29). The Z4 was also used in various other racing events and competitions, showcasing its performance and handling capabilities - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4_%28E85%29).
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Valuation
The value of a first-generation BMW Z4 in the UK today can vary depending on factors such as condition, mileage, and specific model. On average, you can expect to pay between **£4,000 and £10,000** for a well-maintained example.
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Clubs
BMW owners in Northern Ireland can find clubs to join and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Here are a couple of options:

1. **BMW Club Ulster Section**: This club is part of the official BMW Club, which encompasses the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. They organize a variety of events throughout the year, including meet-ups, ride-outs, and tours. You can find more information on their [website](https://www.bmwclubulstersection.com/).

2. **BMW Car Club GB - Irish Region**: This club covers both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. They host fun drives, local meetings, shows, and exhibitions. More details can be found on their [website](https://bmwcarclubgb.uk/regions/ireland/).

These clubs offer great opportunities to meet other BMW enthusiasts, participate in events, and share your passion for BMWs.