Another "Should I buy this Z4?" thread

[RPS328ix]

I'm a 328 owner and looking to add a Z4 to my collection as a part time summer car. I'm probably looking at a E85 so I can keep the cost low. I've heard that the reliability on the N52 is great, but how does the E85 compare? Is there anything I should stay away from?

The best deal I've found so far is a 2004 3.0i with 25,000 miles for an asking price of $15,000.00. Seems like mostly a base model without many upgrades, but that is fine for my purposes. Carfax is clean, and the condition looks good to me. Blue book value is around $13,000.00, so I was thinking of offering that.

Any thoughts or advice? Thanks!

[Huz-Z]

That car sounds decent and the mileage is not too bad. The engine in that year was reasonably reliable as I understand it - its a 225 hp inline 6. As long as it passes the test drive, has been wel cared for, and the power top is opening and closing properly, it could be good.

But bear in mind that the N52 engine appeared in the 2006 - 2008 Z4, 3.0i and 3.0si at 215 and 255 hp respectively. There were other subtle changes too in 2006 - the front bumper and fog lights were tweaked, as were the taillights and other changes were made, such as to the suspension.

Cheers!

[t0pless]

the mileage is really good!
However, low mileage can also be problematic. Cars that are not properly stored can have just as many problems as cars that have high mileage.

If you're familiar with the m52 or m54 engine, they're awesome. They do have their share of problems, but many 3 series and z4's are hitting above the 200k mile stone as they age.

Here is a list of common things that are problematic with the z4 platform and m54 engines

DISA valve
VANOS seals
Rear springs breaking
Sticky Steering
Broken electric gears in seats (won't recline, tilt, etc.)
Water pump failure
Crank Case Ventilation Valve
Lower control arm bushings
Mechanical belt tensioner and pulleys
Power top motor
oil pump nut backing out
Valve cover gasket

These parts are the most talked about and most documented. Since most of these parts are the same as the 3 series and x3, parts are available, but will be more expensive then say a Honda. If anything it's the labor that will kill you so if you're a grease monkey you should be okay. That being said while the m54 engine is way over built from the factory, this still isn't a budget car. They can be pretty darn reliable and one of the cheaper BMW's to maintain, but don't let that fool you thinking you're wallet won't be tapped. I change my oil 3 times out of the year and since these require 7qts of oil, I spend around $180 (a bit overkill, but I'm a strong believer in oil changes as the biggest preventative maintenance). If you got some extra coin just in case, I'd offer them 13k-13.5k for a non fully loaded z4.

[Goldwinghai]

I would definitely make sure the car pass safety inspection and emissions, and then have a pre-purchase inspection by an independent BMW technician as part of the deal. $13K is reasonable if there are sports and premium packages.

[RPS328ix]

Thanks for the advice guys!

[Zedfor]

I would steer clear of the 2003 - 2005 models if you can, simply because of the "sticky steering". The 2006 - 2008 3.0si is the best of all Z4's IMHO.

[Twixboy]

Originally Posted by Zedfor

I would steer clear of the 2003 - 2005 models if you can, simply because of the "sticky steering". The 2006 - 2008 3.0si is the best of all Z4's IMHO.

The 06-08 3.0si carries a $3-4k premium over the 03-05 3.0i though. Then for another $4-5k you are in M territory. You can always spend "a little more" and get something better, but everyone has their financial limits.