If you lower that car, you will destroy its handling and its ride.” You have been warned…. Conrod bearings and even bolts can fail, so if there’s any rattle from deep inside the engine, be very wary. The Z4 is BMW's small roadster. Look for oil and filter changes using BMW-approved synthetic oil at 6000 miles, plugs and transmission and diff oil at 18,000, and new brake fluid every two years. If you're looking for a second-hand BMW Z4, check out all the models for sale on Drive here. The stylish and practical Coupé came later, and only in high spec – cheaper new than the Roadster, they’re now scarce and significantly more expensive. “There are touches that make it look a bit better and it offers a purer, slightly more authentic sports car experience,” he explains. The Z4 was the first BMW with electric power steering, and the soft-top was fully automatic with no manual clips or latches, taking under 10 secs to go up or down. Change the head gasket, engine mounts, timing-chain guide and Vanos filter, too, if they’ve not been done. What to look for when buying a BMW Z4 2003 - 2009, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability. Electric steering assistance was provided on all but Ms (which are hydraulic); problems with stiffness and noise are usually easy to cure. When Z4 coupe owner Andrew was in the market for his car, a Sport was his choice. It’s advisable to learn the range and options before buying, because few dealers know them well, so desirable models can be underpriced. If you’re looking at a four-cylinder car check that the engine management lights illuminate when the ignition is switched on, and go out with the engine running. Buying a used BMW from a private seller might be more cost-effective, but it doesn’t … It's a relatively small market segment, but a competitive one. 2003 March: E85 Z4 launched, as 2.5i and 3.0i only at first, 2003 Sept: 2.2 added; Alpina Roadster S launched – 3.4-litre, 296bhp, close-ratio ’box, 5.1 secs 0-60, 160mph, 2006 Facelift: 2.2 dropped, N52 six-cylinder engine replaces M54 – 2.5i 174bhp, 2.5Si 215bhp; 3.2 M added (5070 built); E86 Z4 Coupé launched (3.0/M only); Alpina Roadster Sproduction ends, 365 built, 2009 E89 coupé/cabrio Z4 replaces E85/86. Choosing which kind of non-M Z4 Coupe to go for is easy, as there are only two types: SE and Sport. Replacing BMW's Z3 was never going to be an easy task. Sure, the Z4 M Coupe is a 338bhp weapon that shares its S54 3.2-litre engine with the E46 M3, but the 3.0si - its little brother - is well worth considering. Regular servicing is important, so check the history: some had a replacement cylinder head and lifters under warranty, a permanent cure. The Z4M has the S54 engine: valve clearances need checking every second service (£700-1200). built c150,000 • Price now £6-25k/£8-38k. At present early 2.5-litre cars look the best buy. Here is my Used BMW Z4 Buyers Guide and the top 5 gadgets to get for your BMW Z4. Speaking to the guys at Birds, it’s clear that options are limited. As for the Z4’s party piece, the roof could be raised or lowered in 20 seconds – a feat that you should ensure is still possible with any potential purchase. Sold 1999-2009 • No. There’s loads of torque low down the rev range and the stock exhaust note sounds fantastic.”. But before you take the plunge, here’s what you need to know: The E86 has a much more common roadster cousin (E85), so why buy the tin top? As long as you can get along with the styling there's very little that can be said against a well looked after used Z4. Air-con needs re … Wayward drive is suspension bushes. Hi Ive seen a nice Z4 coupe 3.0 for sale, its a 2006 car with 30K on the clock. Specific to the Z4 (rather than the typical BMW checks for anything with an M54 engine) would be the rear springs, which often break; check that the drain holes are clear, so that the top motor doesn't get flooded and die an expensive death; make sure the EPS (electric power-assisted steering) is functionally properly at operating temperature, especially in warm environments if possible (I'm … The’06 facelift brought yet more electronics, and further underlying problems in old age – later cars currently command a premium, but it’s important to buy wisely and look for a car that has already had love (and money) lavished on it, especially over the past few years. It was only produced from 2006 to 2009, and it was always a more niche product. One such car is the standard Z4 coupe. Introduced for the 2003 model year, the BMW Z4 is the successor to the Z3, BMW’s popular roadster from the 1990s. Just 167 were built in right-hand drive, yet there are currently plenty on the market, with some priced well below an M Roadster. Faster than most Z4s on the limit, the S2000 gives its driver a real buzz in return for a real workout, but is less comfortable in a relaxed cruising role; expensive UK tax from 2006 – and insurance, too. “Most people want the car lowered, which is a mistake,” Kevin explains, adding: “The car is already hitting the bump rubbers even on the standard ride height. Looks are very important in the convertible game, and BMW’s designers have judged the Z4 just right. Some of the Z4’s most common issues relate to the failure-prone electronic folding roof, making the Coupe a much more reliable choice. Competing head-on with the Z4 for buyers’ hard-earned cash are the Audi TT (including the more hardcore RS variant), Mercedes-Benz SLC and, of course, the Porsche Boxster. Because there’s no limited-slip differential as standard. If you did need to do the suspension, go for Bilstein shock absorbers - the B6s - but that’s all I’d do. Cooling system: As with any used BMW, take a close look at the engine cooling system. Z4 engines can use a lot of oil, so make sure the powerplant hasn’t been damaged by running dry. One should also check the body of the car before buying, as the drain holes can get plugged up and the underside of the hood can also rot in … Compare Offers › … If you go on Autotrader and search for a 2003-2006 model, you’ll find the average asking price is just $10,700. We are rebuilding a 2001 BMW 325i with front end damage. The Z4 coupe’s greatest asset is arguably its N52B30 3.0-litre straight-six. built  c113,000 • Price now £6-18,000. The BMW Z4 is something of a class act and the Mk2 version is a more well rounded package than its predecessor. Engine/s: 2.5 6-cyl/3.0 6-cyl/3.2 6 … The BMW Z3 and Z4 are genuine roadsters, not simply convertibles. They look similar enough so the question is: 1. will the Hood from the X5 fit … read more thanks dylan kenning “The engines are pretty bullet proof - Vanos solenoids are probably the only common issue, and they’re not expensive to sort. The Z stands for "zukunft," the German word for future. Great handling and performance, but not a DiY car if engine problems strike – and parts are costly. BMW Z4 2203-2009 Nuts and Bolts. That said, if you try a Sport and find the suspension too firm, the SE is worth considering. What to look out for when buying a used BMW Z4 Impressively, there haven’t been any recalls for the original Z4 but that’s not to say there’s nothing to look for when buying one. Although the Z3 had never received a great deal of critical acclaim, sales had nevertheless been very strong. As a result, it’s gloriously nimble, and a far superior driver’s car. Verify the soft-top’s condition and function. While you can bag one for under £8000, upping the budget to a decent margin over £10,000 should get you a tidy, low-ish mileage example. The N52 has hydraulic cam lifters that can suffer from losing oil, leading to a tractor-like noise when starting from cold. All Z4s have lively performance, and which model you choose should reflect how you want to use it: the smaller engines are only ‘slow’ when compared to the bigger ones. It's a descendant of the BMW Z3 that appeared in Goldeneye, which was a movie before becoming perhaps the greatest video game of all time. Other than the fact it’s arguably better looking, the E86 also has a bodyshell that’s twice as stiff. Used BMW Z4 Ratings The BMW Z4 is a two-door, two passenger roadster, and a two-door, two passenger coupe.The BMW Z4 was released in 2002 as the replacement for the highly popular Z3 roadster. Z4 enthusiasts have an inexpensive fix, and the great following and self-help groups set up for the cars confirm their classic potential. If the transmission feels very lazy to shift, shifts hard, or feels like its slipping, walk away from that particular Z4. Speaking to Kevin Bird - Technical Director of BMW tuning specialist Birds - we were told: “The rear spring that they have on that car is virtually identical to the E46 M3 spring.” Kevin went on to explain: “It’s a rising rate spring, and those little ‘pig tails’ tend to crack. Been driving a Bmw x1 over the last year but at the age of 21 and having got much more into cars over the last 6-8 months i feel like its time for a change to something that will put a smile on my face with each drive! Go Certified. As a result the engine struggles to get up to temperature once the car is moving, but replacement parts are cheap. Like the Z3, it’s a compact, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, two-seater available as a roadster (E85 chassis code) and, … Introduction to the Z4. That’s an MOT failure.”. The resulting very long nose and a stubby tail mean the BMW Z … But don’t let the knowledge that some guy in a jumped up hatchback could match or beat you at the traffic lights put you off, as Mr or Miss Hot Hatch Driver won’t have half as much fun rowing through the gears as you. Both engine types are available with an automatic or manual transmission. What to look for when buying a BMW Z4 2009 - 2017, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability. Few Z4s clock up the mileages saloon BMWs do so, while it’s nice to have a lower-mileage car, a well-maintained high mileage Z4 could be a great low-priced option. Check wheels for damage and tyres for age, type and wear. BMW Z4: before you buy Check that the service history has been kept up, especially in recent years: on-board diagnostics decide when a service is due, so ask for a paper history to check. Things to Look For With High Mileage BMWs Steering feedback meanwhile isn’t amazing but it’s nicely direct, and the chassis has an oh-so satisfying rear-led attitude. In the UK, check the taxation rates for the model you fancy ,because there can be a big difference – Alpinas and the first few Z4Ms registered before 23 March 2006 are £325pa; from 23 March on it’s £570pa. A misfiring M54 probably just needs a DISA valve. That engine only has a single throttle body on it, and 261bhp out of a 3.0-litre engine is pretty bang on the money,” Kevin explains. Post-facelift ‘sixes’ (except the M) use the N52 unit, which has no dipstick – just a warning light – and an electric water pump that may fail at 50-60k miles and costs £3-500 plus fitting; rarely, it causes overheating and engine damage. Ancillaries can fail, such as the DISA valve, which controls airflow: a misfire and reduced power at low revs mean a relatively easy DiY replacement. See above for key areas to check before buying. Noisy hydraulic lifters can also afflict the N52: it should clear after a few minutes and will not damage the engine, but is expensive to eradicate. If you want to show off you’ll need at least a 2.5Si, but for relaxed weekend touring, the lesser – and softer-riding – models are ideal. Want another reason to ditch the roadster? Larger all round than the Z3 and three times stiffer, but barely any heavier, the Z4 wowed its customers with typically vivacious styling by Chris Bangle. Not knowing much about these cars are there any particular issues with these that I need to look out for when buying … Currently there are under 50 non-M Z4 coupes for sale on Autotrader, compared to nearly 900 convertibles. If not, the lambda sensor has probably failed. Lovely. And unless you’ve more money than sense, it’s not worth going down the forced induction route. Please confirm you agree to the use of tracking cookies as outlined in the Cookies Policy. It comes in two versions, a 255-hp four-cylinder and a 382-hp six-cylinder. This 2.2-litre Z4 has BMW’s M54 straight-six engine, superseded by the N52 at facelift time in ’06. According to Kevin Bird, an LSD should be high on the modding agenda for any Z4 owner. The N52B30 is most powerful naturally-aspirated, non-M Division inline-six BMW ever made, and in the Z4 Coupe it belts out 261bhp and 232lb ft. That kind of power puts it somewhere in the middle of hot hatch territory - in fact its 5.7 second 0-62mph time is bang on the outgoing Honda Civic Type R’s benchmark time. Check that the service history has been kept up, especially in recent years: on-board diagnostics decide when a service is due, so ask for a paper history to check. It is comprised of many plastic parts from the factory, which are prone to fail. Find a used BMW Z4 on Auto Trader Despite an increase in weight over the Z3, the use of aluminium and magnesium in its construction, an advanced multi-link … You can pay anything up to £15,000, so around the £12,000 mark is a good area to be investigating. Few Z4s clock up the mileages saloon BMWs do so, while it’s nice to have a lower-mileage car, a well-maintained high mileage Z4 could be a great low-priced option. Its suspension is a bit stiffer than the Roadster. Usual E46 platform wear and tear items such as bushes and rear springs will be needed at some point (mine had the springs and lower front arms done for the mot just before I bought it). Mid-engined magic with 2.7-3.4-litre flat-six engines. So, there isn’t a lot of wiggle room under the bonnet, and the same could be said for … The pre-facelift M54 engine is very durable. Failing Vanos seals also reduce power, but new seals are cheap. Any tips and advice for what to look for when buying would be really helpful! If you get a check engine light, it’s usually a Vanos solenoid,” Kevin tells us. Check for seat damage and wear, especially to the driver’s bolster, and watch out for damp carpets, which can wreak havoc with the electrics. “If you want an extra 50 horsepower from that car, then you’d buy the M car and put up with the negatives.”, So, there isn’t a lot of wiggle room under the bonnet, and the same could be said for the suspension department. Here's what you need to know before taking the plunge. Part compatibility question. “With these naturally-aspirated engines it’s notoriously difficult to get any more power. If the roof motor isn’t in the boot, budget £120-150 to move it, unless you’re going to garage the car. Oh, and anthracite headlining. Learn more about the 2004 BMW Z4. We can buy a 2002 BMW X5 for parts. Get 2004 BMW Z4 values, consumer reviews, safety ratings, and find cars for sale near you.  Â, All Classic & Sports Car buyer’s guides, Starter classics: 14 great cars for a first-timer, Malcolm McKay is a regular contributor to Classic & Sports Car. If you’re the sort of person who likes taking a stock car and cranking up the power considerably, you should probably look elsewhere. Engine should have an “M” or M-Power” on a real Z4M. Take time to learn the different specs and options, and try to find the car that most closely matches your ideal, or you’ll regret it later. The Sport comes with M Sport seats, a thicker steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, stiffer suspension and a ‘Sport’ button on the steering wheel that sharpens up the steering and throttle response. With all the power coming in one lump high in the rev range (peak power is at 6600rpm) it feels decently quick, and while you do have to really rev it to get the most out of it, that’s hardly a chore thanks to the mesmerising mechanical melody belting out of the exhaust pipes. The difference being that roadsters are strictly two-seaters and the seats are set well back, almost to the rear axle. Why? What to look for when buying a used BMW: When checking a used BMW, test all the electronics thoroughly, including the remote, windows, power seats, climate controls, air conditioner, audio system, Bluetooth, etc. The Pros and Cons of BUYING A USED BMW- Everything xplained The driving position was much better, too, with a clean, modern cockpit that felt far higher-quality. A move upmarket meant it wouldn’t sell in quite as big numbers as the Z3, but a remarkable choice of engines – 2-litre ‘four’, plus 2.2, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.2-litre ‘sixes’, as well as the Alpina 3.4 – during its six-year life, with spec options that increased the range much further, meant there was a Z4 for everyone. Do a full bore start in the Z4 Coupe with the traction control turned off, and you might find a little one tyre fire action going on. What to look for buying used; Buying an Approved Used car; The best ways to sell your car; Guide to buying an EV; PHEVs and Hybrids explained; Getting a car on Motability; ... Sell your BMW Z4 fast Compare car buyer offers Get up to £1,000 more. In my business sometimes I would buy 3 Series BMWs with over 100,000 miles to perform some minor repairs and then resell, and sometimes I would buy BMWs with the same amount of mileage for $500 because they were in trashed condition. Try to find a cared-for example and remember that performance models are likely to have been thrashed around tracks. Owner Andrew Milner certainly agrees it’s an exciting car to pilot, telling us: “The driving experience makes every journey fun! Rear springs can snap: ‘lowered’ may mean broken. Those who want to feel the engine roar may prefer the 335 horsepower engine with 332 torque. Don't lower it! On the UK market, there are far more Sports than SEs, so you might as well make yours the former. Sold 2004-’12 • No. So, if you're looking to get one of those Z4s, here's what you have to look for: first of all listen out for a small rattling sound coming from the upper valve train assembly. Unlike the Z4 M’s complicated S engine, the N52 in the 3.0si shouldn’t give you many headaches. When it worked, that is, which it didn’t always due to an unfortunate placement of the hood motor in a bowl in the hoodwell drain area, so when the drains blocked, it filled with water. looking for a 3.0L E85/E86! So you won’t have a huge amount of choice, but there are just about enough out there to make buying one relatively headache free. The Honda S2000 (left) and Porsche Boxster/Cayman (987) are alternative buys, Putting Munich on the map: BMW 2002 and 3.0 CSL, BMW 2002 and 3.0 CSL: inside the February 2021 C&SC, Save on tickets to The London Classic Car Show, Grand tourer supertest: AC Aceca vs Aston Martin DB2 Vantage vs Bristol 404 vs Lancia Aurelia B20 GT, Why going back to the future can be so illuminating, Video: The Classic & Sports Car Show 2018 highlights, A very usable sports car that can be modified into a serious track tool, or just be a boulevardier, as you choose, Neglect and some engine weaknesses lurk to bite the unwary. While it’s always been the M Division monsters from the BMW stable that have received all the praise, there are plenty of ‘normal’ models from our beloved Bavarian manufacturer that should also be singled out. Practical, fun, spacious, stylish and extremely easy to live with, the Z4 offers a wide choice from relaxed cruiser to serious bruiser, depending on the options you choose. These are the top 5 options I use the most on my car and highly recommend. There’s a lot of electronics, with a drive-by-wire throttle, electronic traction and stability control (that can be disabled via a button) and optional Sport/Comfort modes. Check the coolant expansion tank for leaks. The BMW Z4, which is a fairly modern rear-wheel-drive 2-seat roadster manufactured by a company that knows a thing or two about driving, first went on sale in 2003. Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 BMW Z4 – The Pros 1) Horsepower and Torque Options The 2016 BMW Z4 comes standard with a turbocharged 24 horsepower engine that produces 260 torque. The rear springs on all Z4s are known to be a weak point. Unless intentionally intended to deceive a buyer, pop the hood. If the service history doesn’t show replacement and the mileage is over 60k, budget £1500 to replace the bearings. Check for water damage and corrosion under the carpet, including in the trunk; water is the enemy of electronics. BMW's E86 Z4 coupe offers great looks, a cracking six-pot engine and sweet handling for a low price. The ultimate is the Z4M, but the Alpina Roadster S that preceded it, with its handbuilt 3.4-litre ‘six’, Alpina wheels, unique interior, body and suspension modifications, could be the collector’s bargain of the year.

Graham Roberts Photography, Famous Canadian Pastors, Local Estate Agents, Gervonta Davis Vs Santa Cruz Purse, What Is Zucchini, Wellspring Counselling Edinburgh, Trip Advisor Goma Serena Hotel, Antonio Donnarumma, Brother,