Photo: Calreyn88 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
BMW Z4
Roadster · Gas · 43 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 6 luxury sports cars on owner data, price and power
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is highly dependent on the specific generation and powertrain.
10 problems reported (6 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentCooling system failures (water pumps, expansion tanks)
Common point of failure.
- RecurrentOil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing)
Common with age.
- RecurrentVANOS solenoid failures
Causes performance issues.
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentRoof mechanism problems (E89)
Motor placement can lead to water damage and failure.
- RecurrentWindow regulator failures
Windows cease to function.
- RecurrentWater ingress (convertibles)
Due to blocked drains or failed seals.
- IsolatedSticky steering
Car follows road imperfections.
- IsolatedFront headlight condensation
Units fill with water.
- IsolatedFactory brake fluid inadequacy
Noted as unsuitable for the car's performance level.
- Isolated"Ass-backward" tachometer design
Criticized layout.
The version owners recommend
For the current generation (G29), the Z4 M40i is overwhelmingly recommended as the definitive version. Owners emphasize that the high-output B58 engine transforms the experience, making it "exceptional" and a "real weapon," whereas the lower-powered 30i variant does not leave the same impression. For the E85/E86 generation, the E86 M Coupe is highlighted as an excellent, engaging driver's car, particularly with modifications to address factory understeer.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Boxster, Toyota GR Supra, Porsche 718 Cayman, Mazda MX-5 (Miata) and Audi TT RS.
Is the Z4 right for you?
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Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is highly dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. For the current generation (G29), the Z4 M40i variant receives extremely positive feedback from owners, described as "insanely good," "stupid fast," "incredible power," "balanced," and "the best car I've ever owned." It is praised for its fun factor, driving dynamics, and value proposition, particularly when equipped with a manual transmission. The base 30i variant is considered competent but less memorable, with some reviewers labeling it "forgettable." The previous E89 generation (2009-2016) is viewed more as a comfortable grand tourer or "Palm Beach cruiser," with criticism for feeling heavy and sluggish. The E85/E86 generation (2002-2008) is well-regarded, especially the coupe (E86), for being a fun, engaging driver's car. A strong, recurring theme is that the Z4 is an underrated and often overlooked model in the BMW lineup.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive convertible alternative to the mid-engine Porsche Boxster/718 Cayman, often seen as offering more value and lower maintenance costs. It is mechanically identical to the Toyota GR Supra, with the Z4 offering a convertible body style; the Supra is noted as being slightly lighter. Compared to the Audi TT RS, the Z4 M40i is described as having a more forgiving suspension and being quieter on the highway. It is consistently distinguished from the Mazda MX-5 as being in a higher budget and luxury class, described as an "adult's Miata" with more power and refinement. The consensus is that it delivers a potent blend of performance and open-top enjoyment, often undercutting premium rivals on price.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is highly recommended for the G29 M40i for increased engagement. For the E85/E86 generation, the 3.0si engine is recommended. A limited-slip differential (LSD) is suggested as a beneficial modification for the older generations to improve handling. Proper performance tires (not budget tires) are emphasized as essential. For daily use, the car's reliability is noted to be good with regular maintenance, but a specialist mechanic is recommended for older models.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers seeking a fun, fast, and refined two-seat convertible that is more of a grand tourer than a raw sports car. Ideal for those who want to enjoy open-top motoring with modern conveniences and strong performance. The G29 M40i, especially with a manual, is presented as a top value choice in the sports car segment. Not recommended for those needing practicality or rear seats. For older generations (E89, E85/E86), a comprehensive service history and pre-purchase inspection are critical due to age-related maintenance needs. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to test drive the M40i variant to understand its praised dynamics.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans multiple generations, necessitating clear separation in analysis. The current G29 generation's reputation is heavily bifurcated by trim level; the M40i is a critically acclaimed performance convertible, while the base model is seen as underwhelming. The model's existence is frequently linked to its partnership with Toyota for the Supra, with some community feedback suggesting BMW invested minimally in standalone marketing. The B58 engine in the G29 is repeatedly praised for its performance and reliability. Analysis based on approximately 45 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Z4 (G29)2018–202613 complaints · 20 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (5) · electrical system (4) · steering (3)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the G29 Z4 are overwhelmingly positive, describing it as underrated, a future classic, and one of BMW's best current offerings.
6 problems reported (3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentApple CarPlay connects and disconnects intermittently, resolved by a dealer iDrive software update
- RecurrentHarman Kardon sound system quality considered mediocre
- RecurrentSoft top rather than hardtop seen as a drawback by some
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedSteering feel described as lacking or numb
- IsolatedRoad noise and potential rattles inherent to the convertible top
- IsolatedWind buffeting noted as a reason some chose this car over the Supra
Is a 2018–2026 Z4 right for you?
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Z4 (E89)2009–2016246 complaints · 27 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine and engine cooling (49) · electrical system (43) · steering (42)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the E89 Z4 generally regard it as a beautiful, distinctive roadster that has held its value unusually well for a BMW, with the retractable hardtop and the DCT transmission drawing particular praise.
16 problems reported (7 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentRetractable hardtop electrical harness wires fatiguing and breaking at the joints
- RecurrentHardtop tray and roof mechanism repairs
- RecurrentSqueaks and creaks from the dash, center console, steering column, behind the seat, and the hardtop
+ 13 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCracked or fractured wheels
- RecurrentHigh-pressure fuel pump failure
- RecurrentFuel injector failure
- RecurrentIgnition coil and spark plug failures causing misfires and reduced power
- IsolatedCarbon buildup
- IsolatedDCT gearbox leaks
- IsolatedWastegate wear on turbocharged cars
- IsolatedStarter failure
- IsolatedDifferential leaks
- IsolatedLifter ticking
- IsolatedHeadlight color mismatch indicating a failing unit
- IsolatedSoft top mechanism issues
- IsolatedCamber pins not removed from strut towers
Is a 2009–2016 Z4 right for you?
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Z4 (E86)2006–2008143 complaints · 6 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (71) · air bags (28) · electrical system (19)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2006-2008 E86 Z4 are overwhelmingly positive, describing it as one of the more reliable BMWs and a special, timeless sports car that delivers a genuine driving experience.
11 problems reported (4 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentConvertible top motor strain or failure
Owners describe the top motor as a sign of an impending expensive repair, with some reporting seized manual releases and one owner totaling a car partly due to the top motor.
- RecurrentCooling system component failures, including water pump and plastic lines
Owners repeatedly flag the water pump and hard plastic cooling lines as items to replace preventively.
- RecurrentRod bearing wear on the S54-powered Z4 M
Owners treat rod bearings as wear items to be replaced, with one reporting failure at 85k miles.
+ 8 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentVANOS issues on the S54-powered Z4 M
Owners mention VANOS refurbishment and cam sprocket bolts as expected maintenance.
- IsolatedRun-flat tires degrading ride quality
Owners describe them as crappy but easily swapped.
- IsolatedStarter failure
One owner reported a starter failure around 68k miles.
- IsolatedSevere idle issues and throttle delay on the N52
One owner reported a strong throttle delay and needing roughly 50 percent throttle to reach low rpm.
- IsolatedElectrical module or communication bus failure
One owner suspected a failing module taking out a communication bus.
- IsolatedWheel cracking
One owner warned the wheels are prone to cracks from rough roads and potholes.
- IsolatedOil consumption
One owner noted the car can be greedy on oil.
- IsolatedEngine mount and power steering pump wear
One owner attributed vibrations and steering noise to these.
Is a 2006–2008 Z4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Z4 (E85)2002–20081,162 complaints · 11 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (966) · air bags (86) · electrical system (52)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the E85 Z4 broadly describe it as one of the more reliable BMWs they have owned, with many praising the inline-six engines, the manual gearbox, and the distinctive styling that has aged well.
20 problems reported (1 very frequent, 7 recurrent, 12 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCooling system component failures, including water pump, expansion tank, and plastic lines
- RecurrentConvertible top motor strain or failure, sometimes leading to expensive repair or manual conversion
- RecurrentValve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket leaks
+ 17 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDISA valve failure
- RecurrentVANOS issues, including solenoids and seals
- RecurrentPower steering pump noise or failure
- RecurrentRod bearing wear on S54 M cars
- RecurrentVANOS bolt and cam sprocket issues on S54 M cars
- IsolatedEngine mount failure causing vibration at idle in drive
- IsolatedStarter failure
- IsolatedClutch position sensor failure
- IsolatedRear shock mount and subframe bushing wear
- IsolatedDifferential leaks
- IsolatedDead tweeters and midrange speakers with premium sound
- IsolatedWheel cracking on certain factory wheels
- IsolatedThrottle delay and idle issues on N52 cars
- IsolatedLCM or ignition switch electrical faults
- IsolatedTPMS sensor false alerts
- IsolatedSticky steering or notchy electric steering
- IsolatedOil consumption
Is a 2002–2008 Z4 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2011. Years to avoid: 2011, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all BMW Z4 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1 | 0 | engine |
| 2022 | 1 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 1 | 5 | unknown or other |
| 2020 | 5 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 5 | 6 | engine |
| 2016 | 4 | 1 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2015 | 15 | 1 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2014 | 21 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2013 | 21 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 15 | 4 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2011 | 138 | 6 | steering |
| 2010 | 10 | 5 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2009 | 22 | 4 | wheels |
| 2008 | 19 | 2 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices58 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2022 · visibility:power window devices and controlscampaign 23V099000
BMW of North Americal, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 8 Series Coupe (840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, Alpine B8 xDrive), 2 Series Coupe (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i xDrive, M2), and 2022-2023 Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. When the digital key is removed from the vehicle, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) software may still allow the power windows and sunroof to be closed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-operated Window Systems."
2022 · electrical system:starter assembly:relaycampaign 25V636000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
2022 · electrical system:starter assemblycampaign 26V056000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
2021 · seat beltscampaign 21V554000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i xDrive), M2 Competition Coupe, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, M3 Competition, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, CooperS, JCW), X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X2 M35i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper SE), MINI Convertible (Cooper, Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW), MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), Rolls Royce Ghost, MINI Countryman (Cooper S E All4), Rolls Royce Phantom, Rolls Royce Cullinan, and Toyota Supra vehicles. The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 20V700000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Z4 and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. The weld between the fuel tank halves may have been insufficiently welded, causing the weld to fail.
2021 · enginecampaign 21V598000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
2021 · electrical system:starter assembly:relaycampaign 25V636000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
2021 · electrical system:starter assemblycampaign 26V056000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
2020 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 19V850000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 Z4 M40i, Z4 sDrive30i, 330i and 330i xDrive vehicles as well as 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The headlight control units may fail causing a loss of one or both of the headlights.
2020 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V684000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 20V700000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Z4 and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. The weld between the fuel tank halves may have been insufficiently welded, causing the weld to fail.
2020 · enginecampaign 21V598000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
2020 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 20V516000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The headlamps are able to be adjusted horizontally. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
2020 · electrical system:starter assembly:relaycampaign 25V636000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V684000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
43 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: G29
M40i
3.0L 6-cylinder · 382 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2022–2026