Bmw M roadster problems
The BMW M Coupé and BMW M Roadster are high performance models of the BMW Z3 and Z4 coupés/roadsters produced by BMW M. The first generation was based on the Z3 and was produced between 1998 and 2002. The second generation was based on the Z4 and was produced between 2006 and 2008.
All models were produced in the BMW Spartanburg plant in the United States. Some major components— such as the engine and transmission— were imported from Germany.
First generation (1997–2002)
Z3 M Roadster
The M-Roadster E36/7 was introduced in 1997 as the high performance version of the BMW Z3. The most significant cosmetic difference between the M-Roadster, including the M-Coupe, is the substantially flared rear quarter-panels ("fender flares") and the correspondingly offset rear wheels. Additional external differences compared to the standard Z3 models included front and rear bumpers, gills, quad exhaust, trunk, and mirrors.
The standard Z3 models received a facelift in 1999. The appearance of the M was not changed
In the 6 years from 1997 to 2002, 15,322 M Roadsters were produced.
The M Roadster is electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The curb weight is 1,420 kg (3,130.6 lb).
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Bmw M roadster model years
Common Bmw M roadster problems
The BMW M Roadster is a high-performance roadster that has earned a reputation for its driving dynamics and unique design. However, like any other car, it has its own set of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.
One of the most common issues with the BMW M Roadster is related to the Vanos system, which is a hydraulic system that adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves. Many owners have reported strange rumbles and noises coming from the engine, which can be a sign of a failing Vanos unit. If left unchecked, this issue can lead to serious engine damage, so it's important to have the Vanos system inspected and serviced regularly.
Another common problem with the BMW M Roadster is related to the electrical system. Some owners have reported issues with gauges not working properly, hood sensors failing, and other electrical malfunctions. These issues can be difficult and expensive to diagnose and repair, so it's important to have any electrical problems checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
The brakes on the BMW M Roadster are also known to wear out quickly, especially with spirited driving. The front brake discs and pads should be replaced every 2-3 years to prevent warping and other issues. Additionally, the battery may need to be replaced every few years, especially if the car is not driven regularly or if it is stored in a cold environment.
The power steering rack is another component that can cause problems in the BMW M Roadster. Some owners have reported leaks and other issues with the power steering system, which can be expensive to repair. If the power steering rack is not functioning properly, it can affect the car's handling and steering, so it's important to have it inspected and serviced regularly.
Finally, the BMW M Roadster is known for its unique design and styling, which can make it difficult to find replacement parts and components. Some owners have reported issues with finding parts for the car, especially for older models. This can make repairs and maintenance more difficult and expensive, so it's important to factor in the cost of replacement parts when considering the purchase of a BMW M Roadster.
In conclusion, the BMW M Roadster is a high-performance roadster that offers unique styling and driving dynamics. However, like any other car, it has its own set of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. By understanding these issues and having the car inspected and serviced regularly, owners can enjoy many years of trouble-free driving with their BMW M Roadster.
Are BMW Z3 roadsters reliable?
Many people who own the Z3 are car enthusiasts, and would therefore know how to take good care of a sports car. Overall, owners don't mention any catastrophic issues with the Z3, which is really good if you're planning to get a used one.
How many M Roadsters were made?
A total of 4,275 M Coupes were produced, and 5,070 M Roadsters. This included 1,815 M Coupes for North America and 3,042 M Roadsters for North America.
What is the life expectancy of a 1996 BMW Z3?
What is Bmw Z3 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Bmw Z3 is 150,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
How long does a BMW Z3 last?
I've seen BMW blocks with 300k miles with factory cross hatching still visible on the cylinder walls. They're fantastic engines. If you properly maintain it, it will outlast the rest of the car.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw M roadster years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw M roadster cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw M roadster model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw M roadster model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw M roadster years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw M roadster car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw M roadster , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw M roadster vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by M roadster model years
A total of 4 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by M roadster model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 62 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw M roadster . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw M roadster vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2018-10-08
- VIN: WBSCK9346YL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUB FRAME HAS CRACKED UNDER NORMAL DRIVING.DURING REGULAR COMMUTES AND DRIVES ON RESIDENTAL ROADS I BEGAN TO HEAR NOISES FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR AND I TOOK A LOOK UNDERNEATH CAR, THERE WAS A SMALL CRACK IN THE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTING EAR. I ALSO CHECKED INSIDE OF THE HATCH AREA AND REMOVED THE SOUND DEADENING REVEALING A SMALL SEPARATION OF THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE.
Bmw M roadster 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-13
- Date Complaint: 2015-09-16
- VIN: WBSCK9333XL
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: OVER SEVERAL MONTHS I HEARD INCREASING NOISE FROM THE REAR OF MY CAR. WHEN I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC HE FOUND THAT THE ENTIRE CROSSMEMBER THAT HOLDS THE DIFFERENTIAL TO THE SUBFRAME HAD PULLED LOOSE FROM THE TRUNK. THE CAR COULD NOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN, MY BODYSHOP SUGGESTED I SEND IT TO THE BMW DEALER IN CHARLOTTE NC. THEY KEPT MY CAR FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS AND FIXED IT. NOW 5 YEARS AND 10K MILES HAVE PASSED AND THE SUB-FRAME MOUNT IS PULLING LOOSE AGAIN, THE WELDS POP OUT AND THE NOISE HAS STARTED. IT MAKES THE CAR DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AND IMPOSSIBLE TO SELL.
Bmw M roadster 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-24
- Date Complaint: 2015-07-28
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR ENGINE MAINTENANCE AND ASKED THEM TO ADDRESS SQUEAKS AND RATTLES. ON INSPECTION IT WAS FOUND THAT THE REAR CROSSMEMBER HAD ALMOST COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE UNIBODY AND THE MOUNT HOLDING THE DIFFERENTIAL IN HAD ONLY 1/4 IN OF 4 INCHES HOLDING THE AFT END OF THE DIFFERENTIAL. COMPLETE FAILURE COULD HAVE CAUSED A CATASTROPHIC CHAIN OF EVENTS CAUSING A CRASH AND POSSIBLE FATALITIES. LOOKING ON LINE I FOUND NUMEROUS FAILURES OF THE SAME KIND RESULTING FROM METAL FATIGUE BROUGHT ON BY FAULTY DESIGN. AT LEAST THIS WAS THE OPINION OF OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME FAILURE. ONE PERSON HAD A PHDS IN METALLURGY.
Bmw M roadster 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2013-02-22
- VIN: 5UMBT93578L
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR WAS IN FOR ROUTINE CARE FOR INSPECTION II WHEN IT WAS DISCOVERED BY THE SHOP THAT I HAD SUFFERED AND EXHAUST CAM FAILURE, WHICH IS COMMON WITH EARLIER ENGINES, BUT WAS REPORTEDLY NOT A PROBLEM WITH MINE PER BMW NA. THIS FAILURE RESULTS IN CATASTROPHIC ENGINE DAMAGE, AND DEPENDING ON THE SPEED ONE IS TRAVELING AT, POTENTIAL DRIVER INJURY. MY CAR HAS ~43000 MILES AND WAS PURCHASED NEW. *TR
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-11
- Date Complaint: 2012-07-11
- VIN: WBSCK9349YL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE SUB-FRAME HAS SEVERAL FAILED WELDS THAT HAVE CAUSED A SAGGING OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. THE BROKEN WELDS HAVE CAUSED SEVERAL, SEVERE CRACKS AND SEPARATIONS IN THE SUB-FRAME AS WELL AS ALMOST COMPLETE FAILURE AND SEPARATION IN THE TRUNK FLOOR. THIS HAS CAUSED THE CV AXLE TO COME INTO CONTACT WITH THE EXHAUST PIPE AND HAS CAUSED HOLES AND RIPS IN THE RUBBER BOOT, LEADING TO THE IMMEDIATE REPLACEMENT OF THAT COMPONENT AS WELL. THIS RENDERS THE CAR IMMOBILE AND WILL REQUIRE AT THE LEAST 3,500$ IN REPAIRS. THIS IS IN NO WAY AN ISOLATED INCIDENT AS IT HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED BY SEVERAL OTHER OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE. THIS IS A FAILURE OF THE COMPONENTS OF A VEHICLE THAT SHOULD NEVER FAIL. *TR
Bmw M roadster 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-20
- Date Complaint: 2012-03-15
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, THE REAR END FAIL AND BEGAN TO DRAG. AFTER GETTING THE CAR TOWED TO THE SHOP, IT WAS NOTED THE REAR END SUBFRAME WELDS CAME LOSE. AFTER CONTACTING THE INSURANCE COMPANY THEY TOTALED THE CAR OUT. I BOUGHT THE CAR BACK AND MADE REPAIRS TO THE CAR THAT COST ME $4000.00. *TR
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2012-02-14
- VIN: WBSCK9342YL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW M ROADSTER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE DETACHED AND FELL ON THE ROAD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE INNER SIDE OF THE TIRES WERE WORN OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR SUB FRAME WAS SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE; AS A RESULT OF THE BUSHINGS AND TRUNK ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2011-12-13
- VIN: WBSCK934XYL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 BMW M ROADSTER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR SUB-FRAME WAS CRACKED AND CAUSING THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL TO DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND A LOCAL MECHANIC. BOTH THE DEALER AND THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITHOUT REPLACING THE SUB-FRAME. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,800.
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2011-08-07
- VIN: WBSCK9347YL
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT FAILURE. SUBFRAME SEPARATES FROM TRUNK FLOOR. COMMON IN THE Z3M ROADSTERS. SUBFRAME IS JUST SPOT WELDED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR AND NEEDS TO BE RE-ENFORCED. THE RE-ENFORCEMENT KITS ARE SOLD BY FURTHER CONFIRMING THAT THIS IS A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM. DROPPING YOUR DIFFERENTIAL WHILE DRIVING COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) *TT
Bmw M roadster 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2011-08-04
- VIN: WBSCK9331XL
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CAR WAS PURCHASED NEW IT NOW HAS A BROKEN SUBFRAME. IT BEGAN AS A THUMPING NOISE IN THE REAR OF THE CAR. I THOUGHT MAYBE IT NEEDED STRUTS. AFTER LOOKING CLOSER I SAW A TEAR IN THE FRAME. I TOOK IT TO A BODY SHOP FIRST AND THEY HAD NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT. SO I CONTACTED BMW AND THEY TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TO A LOCAL DEALER. AFTER THEY INSPECTED IT THEY TOLD ME IT WOULD TAKE $10,000 PLUS TO FIX IT. THE REAR END IS BASICALLY SITTING ON THE EXHAUST WHICH IS THE ONLY THING HOLDING IT TO THE CAR. SEVERAL SPOT WELD HAVE FAILED THIS IS COMMON AMONG ALL BMW Z-3 CARS. MUCH LIKE THE 3 SERIES IN THE SAME YEARS ( 1999 - 2006 CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT) THEY ALL NEED TO BE RECALLED BEFORE SOME ONE GETS HURT. BMW IS NOT INTERESTED IN ADDRESSING THIS PROBLEM AND BASICALLY OFFERED ME $2000 TO HAVE IT FIXED IN THEIR SHOP. IT DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND THEIR WILLINGNESS TO PUT THE PUBLIC AT RISK. LOOKING ON LINE THIS IS A CHRONIC ISSUE THAT NEEDS ADDRESSED.
Bmw M roadster 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2011-08-01
- VIN: WBSCK9331XL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 BMW M ROADSTER. THE CONTACT HEARD A NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS INSPECTED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUBFRAME HAD FRACTURED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE FAILURE. NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000. UPDATED 09/19/11 *BF THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO FATIGUE. THE SHEET METAL WAS TOO THIN AND THE BOX BEAM WAS TOO SMALL. UPDATED 11/04/11
Bmw M roadster 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2011-05-10
- VIN: WBSCL93421L
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: GAS PEDAL BROKE AND JAMMED. COULD NOT STOP CAR, ENGINE BEGAN REVVING AT HIGH RPM. TURNED THE CAR OFF AND PULLED ONTO SHOULDER OF INTERSTATE. GAS PEDAL BROKE AT THE BASE. UPDATED 05/12/11 *BF
Bmw M roadster 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2011-04-04
- VIN: WBSCK934XYL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEPARATION OF REAR SUBFRAME MAKING CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND RESULTING IN $12,000 OF REPAIRS. ALTHOUGH EVIDENTLY A WELL KNOWN AND UDERSTOOD FAILURE, IT NEVER RESULTED IN A RECALL, AND I WAS NEVER ADVISED OF THE ISSUE BY BMW, UNTIL TH SUBFRAME WAS ALREADY SEPARATING, MAKING THE CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR
Bmw M roadster 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2011-02-26
- VIN: WBSCK9333WL
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I DID A QUICK SEARCH OF THE NHTSA DATABASE AND HAVE FOUND APPROX. 60 COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS EXACT SAFETY ISSUE. I'M QUITE SURPRISED THAT THE NHTSA HAS NOT SANCTIONED BMW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. AFTER BEING INFORMED THAT THIS IS A COMMON SAFETY PROBLEM WITH THESE CARS AND BEING ADVISED TO CHECK FOR IT, I FOUND THAT THE SPOT WELDS HOLDING THE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT TO THE SUB-FRAME HAD TORN LOOSE, AND THE SUB-FRAME AND MOUNT WERE BOTH BEGINNING TO TEAR. HAD I NOT FOUND THE PROBLEM IN TIME, THE DIFFERENTIAL WOULD HAVE SEPARATED COMPLETELY FROM THE CAR (AS HAS HAPPENED TO OTHERS).
Bmw M roadster 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-23
- Date Complaint: 2009-12-24
- VIN: WBSCK9334WL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RATTLING NOISE FROM BACK OF VEHICLE. LOCAL SHOP REPLACED WORN EXHAUST BRACKET; DID NOT FIX PROBLEM. SHOP LOOKED MORE CLOSELY AT CAR AND SAW CRACKS IN DIFFERENTIAL BRACKET AND CRACKS IN REAR SUBFRAME. TOOK CAR TO LOCAL FRAME SHOP AND THEY ALSO SAW POPPED TACK WELDS. QUOTED $1800 TO FIX. ADVISED CAR IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE IN THIS CONDITION. I SAW THE CRACKS AND I AM INCLINED TO BELIEVE THEM. CAR CREAKS, GROANS, AND RATTLES A LOT WHEN BEING DRIVEN. *TR
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