Bmw Z3 problems
The BMW Z3 is a range of two-seater sports cars which was produced from 1995 to 2002. The body styles of the range are:
- 2-door roadster (E36/7 model code)
- 2-door coupé (E36/8 model code)
The Z3 was based on the E36/5 compact platform, a shortened version of the conventional E36 platform. This smaller and cheaper platform used the rear semi-trailing arm suspension design from the older E30 3 Series. It is the first mass-produced Z Series car.
M models were introduced in 1998 in roadster and coupé body styles and were powered by the S50, S52, or S54 straight-six engine depending on country and model year. The M models came with a 5-speed manual transmission. The regular Z3s were offered with straight-sixes or four-cylinder engines.
Production ended on June 28, 2002, with the Z3 line replaced by the E85 Z4.
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Bmw Z3 model years
Common Bmw Z3 problems
BMW Z3 Common Problems and Solutions
Based on owner complaints, there are several common problems with the BMW Z3. These issues range from minor inconveniences to more serious mechanical faults that can affect the car's performance and safety. This article will discuss these problems in detail, providing potential Z3 owners with valuable information that can help them make informed decisions about purchasing and maintaining this popular roadster.
- Oil Leaks from Lower Engine Area
One of the most common problems with the BMW Z3 is oil leaks from the lower engine area. This issue has been reported by 22 owners, indicating that it is a relatively widespread problem. The leak is typically caused by worn or damaged seals and gaskets, which can deteriorate over time due to engine heat and vibration. In some cases, the leak may be minor and only require the replacement of the affected seal or gasket. However, in more severe cases, the leak may be a sign of a more significant problem, such as a cracked engine block or cylinder head.
- Wet Seats
Another common problem with the BMW Z3 is wet seats, which can be particularly frustrating for owners who live in areas with frequent rain. This issue is caused by a leaky roof, where it connects with the front window. The leak can result in water entering the car's interior, making the seats wet and uncomfortable. The solution to this problem is to fit a replacement seal to stop the leak. This can be done by a professional mechanic or by a knowledgeable DIY enthusiast.
- Rattling Seats
The BMW Z3 is also known for rattling seats, which can be caused by broken plastic bush clips on the seats. These clips are responsible for securing the seat to the car's chassis, and when they break, they can cause the seat to rattle. This issue has been reported by several Z3 owners, and the solution is to replace the broken clips with new ones. This can be done by a professional mechanic or by a knowledgeable DIY enthusiast.
- Exhaust Manifold Failure
Exhaust manifold failure is another common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly on the 1.9L engine. This issue is caused by a cracked exhaust manifold, which can result in a loud cracking noise coming from the top of the engine. The noise is more noticeable with the bonnet open and can be a sign of a significant problem. The solution to this problem is to fit a replacement exhaust manifold, which can be done by a professional mechanic.
- Engine Misfiring
Engine misfiring is a common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly on the 1.9L engine. This issue is caused by a known issue with the valve timing, which can result in the engine misfiring and causing the revs to move up and down erratically. The solution to this problem is to have the valve timing modified by a specialist, which can help to stop the misfiring.
- Alarm Problems
The BMW Z3 is also known for alarm problems, which can be caused by faulty micro switches. These switches are responsible for activating the alarm when the car is tampered with, and when they fail, they can cause the alarm to go off on its own accord. This issue has been reported by several Z3 owners, and the solution is to fit a replacement micro switch to resolve the issue.
In conclusion, the BMW Z3 is a popular roadster that is known for its performance and style. However, like any car, it is not without its problems. The common issues discussed in this article are based on owner complaints and can help potential Z3 owners make informed decisions about purchasing and maintaining this popular roadster. By being aware of these problems and taking steps to prevent or address them, Z3 owners can enjoy many years of trouble-free driving.
How long do BMW Z3 engines 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.
Is the Z3 any good?
Driving BMW's Z3 cars is a phenomenal experience. Even the most basic Z3 2.3 Roadster, with its powerful inline six and newly ventilated front-disc brakes, is a blast. Only at high speeds does the 2.3 feel winded, but opting for the larger displacement 2.8-liter six in the 2.8 Roadster solves that problem.
How much is a Z3 worth?
Prices for a used BMW Z3 currently range from $4,995 to $61,991, with vehicle mileage ranging from 30,298 to 194,281. Find used BMW Z3 inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.
Can you daily drive a Z3?
For years I've recommended Z3 Coupes for people looking for daily drivers, and I needed to validate my recommendations. I pretty much drove it whenever there wasn't snow on the ground and I had one or fewer kids with me.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bmw Z3 years
We have researched Bmw problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bmw Z3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Bmw Z3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bmw Z3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bmw Z3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bmw Z3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bmw Z3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
- Seats problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bmw Z3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Z3 model years
A total of 16 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 Z3 model years
There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Z3 model years
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Z3 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 218 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bmw Z3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bmw Z3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Bmw Z3 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-08
- VIN: 4USCH9332XL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Hello, NHTSA released a recall warning for BMWs made from 2000 to 2006, regarding Takata airbags. "The risk to vehicle occupants is dire," it said. My 1999 BMW Z3 was made one year before this, and is not included in the recall. I have been trying to determine whether my '99 BMW has Takata airbags as well, thus far with no success. As of today, BMW will only tell me that there are no outstanding recalls for my car - they have not been willing to tell me what type of airbags they originally installed in it. Do your records indicate what type of airbags I have?
Bmw Z3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-05
- VIN: WBSCK9347YL
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Rear subframe suspension weld bolt crack from the body subframe, Can observe on the truck of the car the fracture weld bolds. Critical, because it hold on site the differential and rear drives components.
Bmw Z3 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 1997 BMW Z3 Roadster. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 40 MPH, there was a multi-car rear-end accident involving two other vehicles after she fell asleep at the wheel and rear-ended the vehicle in front of her. The contact stated that no other passengers were in her vehicle; however, only the driver's side air bag had failed to deploy. The contact required hospitalization and was in a coma. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and later auctioned. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed the VIN was not included in an air bag recall. The approximate failure mileage was 199,000. The VIN was not available.
Bmw Z3 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-24
- VIN: 4USCH733XWL
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The BMW E36 Z3 1996-2002 (I have the 1998 1.9) are prone to having a separation of the Rear subframe from the differential causing the drivetrain to hang off the vehicle and/or rip out of the trunk's weak aluminum sheet subframe. BMW Germany has acknowledged the problem for a few individuals over the past decade and a half and kept it on the low for them to not spread it further. BMW North America fails to acknowledge the design flaw during their manufacturing process in the North American Plant during the late 90s. The Spot Welds' quality is subpar and worrisome as this catastrophic failure of the subframe to driveline structure has various ways of presenting it self which chiefly includes popped spot welds in the truck which comes hand in hand with a cracked differential ear bracket. * To simply understand why this happens: The issue is that the metal of the trunkfloor is too thin and not adequete at holding up to the forces of the differential tugging at it. There have been documented cases of similarly "repaired" Z3's that end up basically pulling out and/or deforming the entire trunkfloor panel. The metal panel the diff crossmember is structurally tied to (and the trunkfloor itself which is above it) is simply too weak for the forces being applied through it. Adding more welds simply changes where the failure occurs - from pulling out spotwelds, to deforming the trunk floor/crossmember itself if there are too many welds for them to be able to be pulled out. There are a few kits going around that other owners have addressed to their vehicles for a few thousand dollars which includes welding and a re-fabrication of the trunk floor's structure to the subframe/chasis. It has two "caps" that sit on the framerails at either side and a "crossmember" piece which is a strong piece of metal that spans between the two frame rails and sits on top of the "caps". When installed, the differential ends up tugging at the crossmember, which then distributes the forces.....
Bmw Z3 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-24
- VIN: WBACN53461L
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL HAS BEEN ALIGHT FOR SOMETIME. I'M NOT CERTAIN IF IT'S AN AIRBAG FAILURE OR WHETHER IT'S ON THE DRIVERS OR PASSENGER SIDE. I WAS SURPRISED NOT TO FIND MY AUTO INCLUDED IN THE TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL LIST EVENT. CAN YOU SHED ANY LIGHT ON THIS MATTER? IF SO, MANY THANKS IN ADVANCE.
Bmw Z3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- VIN: WBSCK9341YL
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: THE SUBFRAME IS TEARING APART FROM THE FRAME ITSELF IN THE TRUNK. SPOT WELDS HAVE FAILED AND SEPARATION IS OBVIOUS. ## VIN PASSED ## BMW 2000#VPIC# 4 - VIN CORRECTED, ERROR IN ONE POSITION ONLY (INDICATED BY ! IN SUGGESTED VIN), MULTIPLE MATCHES FOUND; 14 - UNABLE TO PROVIDE INFORMATION FOR ALL THE CHARACTERS IN THE VIN. #VPIC# ##
Bmw Z3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2020-09-12
- VIN: 4USCH3344YL
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BOTH AIRBAGS POPPED WHILE MY CAR WAS PARKED AT 711. MY DASH AND WINDSHIELD CRACKED. THE CAR WAS NOT STARTED. I WAS SITTING IN THE DRIVER SEAT. HAD JUST PUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION
Bmw Z3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-11
- VIN: 4USCH9344YL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAG COMES ON ALL THE TIME . I THINK IT MIGHT HAVE TAKAT A AIR BAGS
Bmw Z3 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-18
- VIN: 4USCN33492L
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE TURNED ON THE LEFT BLINKERS STARTS BLINKING RAPIDLY AND IS VERY DIM SO NOT REALLY VISIBLE. WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE OFF IT OPERATES NORMALLY. THIS HAPPENS WHEN STATIONARY AND WHEN MOVING. I HAVE SEEN A NUMBER OF SAME PROBLEMS REPORTED ON BMW FORUMS LIKE FOLLOWS: HTTPS://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=537810://WWW.BIMMERFEST.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=537810
Bmw Z3 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2020-06-01
- VIN: WBSCL93431L
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON WHEN ENGINE IS ON. *TR
Bmw Z3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-05
- VIN: WBACH9343YL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HAVE NOT HEARD BACK FROM COMPLAINT MADE IN DEC., REF. #11288210. FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED CAUSING FRONT WINDOW TO SHATTER AND DASH IS DAMAGED. THE CAR WAS PARKED AND THE KEY WAS NOT IN THE IGNITION. THE PERSON SAT IN THE DRIVER SEAT AND IT EXPLODED.
Bmw Z3 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-13
- VIN: 4USCH3338XL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS LIT
Bmw Z3 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-10
- VIN: 4USCH333XXL
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON. WHETHER CAR IS STATIONARY OR IN MOTION.
Bmw Z3 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-04
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-05
- VIN: 4USCN334X2L
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG FAULT LIGHT IS COMING IN AND OUT ON THE VEHICLE DISPLAY
Bmw Z3 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2019-09-28
- VIN: 4USCN33402L
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2002BMW Z3. THE ABS/DSC SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS AT SPEEDS ABOVE 40MPH. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE ENGAGES AND ABRUPTLY FORCES THE CAR TO PULL HARD RIGHT. THE ABS LIGHTS ON THE DISPLAY PANEL. NO BUMPS OR BAD ROAD CONDITIONS WERE EXPERIENCED PRIOR TO OR AT THE TIME THIS MALFUNCTION OCCURS. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE ENDANGERING NOT ONLY THE DRIVER, BUT ALL VEHICLE DRIVERS IN PROXIMITY.
Latest 5 recalls Bmw Z3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Bmw Z3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Bmw Z3 2001
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Bmw Z3 1999
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Bmw Z3 1996
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Bmw Z3 1998
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Bmw Z3 2000
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Latest negative Bmw Z3 car reviews
Latest positive Bmw Z3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1997
Your Z3 may have a 'little' engine, but it's still an absolute joy to drive! It's incredibly reliable and has plenty of get-up-and-go. While it may not be the fastest car on the market, it's certainly faster than most, with a 0-60 time of around 7.7 seconds. The handling is simply amazing, and it's both easy and comfortable to drive. If you're looking for a newer model, be sure to get one with the roll hoops - they're the telltale sign of a 96 or 97. There are plenty of performance upgrades available for this engine, including a new computer chip, high-flow intake, high-flow exhaust, and even turbos. But if you're happy with the car's current speed, there's no need to upgrade to a bigger engine.
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Vehicle year: 2002
I absolutely love this car! It's so much fun to drive, especially when taking corners. The straight-six engine is incredibly smooth and strikes a great balance between low-end power and high-end performance. In terms of reliability, I've had no issues at all, and while the build quality is good, I still think Japanese cars have the best fit and finish. As for gas mileage, I rated it as average, but that's probably because I can't resist keeping my foot on the gas pedal :)
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Vehicle year: 1997
This car drives really well. The suspension and handling are great, and it has plenty of pep without being a high-performance vehicle. It's also without a doubt the nicest designed car I've ever seen.
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Vehicle year: 2002
This car was so much fun! I took it up to 130 miles and loved driving it as a convertible even in the rain. You should definitely try it sometime!
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Vehicle year: 1996
The car is excellent for getting noticed and for its looks. However, when things mechanically go wrong, it seems like anything less than $500 isn't in the question. Additionally, the trunk leaks, the engine rattles like no other, and the ride isn't very smooth at all for being a BMW. Trust me when I say you feel every bump or rock in the road. Despite these issues, it's still a very fun car and great to be noticed in!
Are you having problems with your Bmw Z3?
Stan Mueller 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 1996
This was my dream car - or so I thought. Although the styling is beautiful, I have had some issues with the car's longevity. Unfortunately, the car has been falling apart since it was about a year old. I have experienced some issues such as roof leaks, pieces falling off the dash, the door handles pulling out of the door, seat belt locking, and the airbag light staying on for the first 5 minutes after starting the car. Once the warranty was up, the cost of fixing these issues became quite expensive.
Amani Crooks 2024-09-18
Vehicle year: 1997
The car has a few areas that could use improvement. For example, the throttle may need some attention and the back window would benefit from being made of glass instead of plastic. Additionally, the seats may require some maintenance as they tend to move more than expected as the car ages. However, overall the car has an attractive appearance. It is important to consider the value for money when making a purchase decision.
Ralph Mante 2024-08-13
Vehicle year: 1998
I really like this car, and the price was fantastic! However, I have had some issues with it. The side window gaskets leak a lot, causing the driver's side floor board to become soft and spongy. Additionally, the previous owner left the small oil filter gasket in the filter housing on several occasions, which caused the rings to wear out and resulted in a nasty oil leak. Fixing this issue cost me over $600.00. Sometimes, the hoses pop off for no apparent reason. Despite these issues, I still think this is a beautiful car.
Abraham Hilpert 2024-07-27
Vehicle year: 1997
I bought my Z3 used with 86,000 miles showing. Although it has many of the typical flaws of this car such as a sagging glove box, sliding seats, leaky top, seriously crappy sound system, and cracks forming in the rear subframe, I believe it will be worth the price of admission once all the gremlins are finally taken care of.
Ludwig Fisher 2024-05-10
Vehicle year: 1996
I have owned my Z3 for 2 years now, having bought it used. Unfortunately, I have experienced a few issues such as the door handle pulling off, which seems to be a common defect. Additionally, the location of the window controls in the center console has resulted in some shorts due to its proximity to the shifter and its tendency to get dirty. I have also had some trouble with the windows rolling up and down. The catalytic converter is bad and rattles quite loudly, and the top also rattles. Despite these issues, I still enjoy my car. It is worth noting that this was a factory approved used car, and I have spoken to others who have had similar experiences. It is possible that these issues have been resolved in newer models, but it is also possible that they persist.