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1999 BMW Z3

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By Research the Car 3 min read

Vehicle Introduction:

The 1999 BMW Z3 is a compact roadster available with various engine and transmission options. The 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 148 horsepower, while the 2.3-liter 6-cylinder engine generates 168 horsepower. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 5-speed Steptronic automatic, and a 4-speed automatic. Owners praise the Z3 for its agile handling, stylish design, and convertible top, but criticize its lack of storage space and some ergonomic issues.

Engine

1.9-liter 4-cylinder

  • Coolant Expansion Tank Failure: The plastic expansion tank can crack or leak, causing coolant loss. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and steam from the engine bay. Replacement of the expansion tank and coolant is necessary. $100 - $200+
  • Valvetronic System Issues: The valvetronic system, which controls valve lift, can experience sensor failures or electrical problems. Symptoms include reduced engine performance, rough idling, or stalling. Diagnosis and repair at a dealership is typically required. $500 - $1,500+

2.3-liter 6-cylinder

  • Vanop Solenoid Failure: The Vanop solenoid, which controls camshaft timing, can malfunction due to wear or electrical issues. Symptoms include reduced engine power, rough idling, or difficulty starting. Replacing the solenoid and resetting the engine management system is necessary. $300 - $600+
  • Ignition Coil Failures: The ignition coils can fail, causing misfires and reduced engine performance. Symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, or engine stalling. Replacement of the ignition coils is required. $200 - $400+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

  • Shifter Linkage Wear: The shifter linkage can become loose or worn over time, causing difficulty shifting gears or shifting out of gear. Replacement of the worn parts is necessary. $200 - $400+

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic

  • Transmission Fluid Leakage: The transmission fluid pan gasket can fail, causing fluid leakage. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels and difficulty shifting gears. Replacing the gasket and adding transmission fluid is required. $200 - $400+
  • Torque Converter Shudder: The torque converter can develop a shudder under acceleration or when downshifting. Symptoms include a vibration or shaking feeling when driving. Replacement of the torque converter is typically necessary. $1,500 - $2,500+

4-Speed Automatic

  • Electrical Connector Issues: The electrical connector between the transmission and engine can experience corrosion or damage. Symptoms include transmission malfunctions, difficulty shifting gears, or a lack of power. Cleaning or replacing the connector is necessary. $100 - $300+

Suspension

  • Control Arm Bushings Wear: The control arm bushings can wear out over time, causing clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps. Replacement of the bushings is necessary. $400 - $800+
  • Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearings can fail, causing a clunking or grinding noise when turning or driving over bumps. Replacement of the strut mounts is necessary. $300 - $600+

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail due to wear or electrical problems. Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, or battery warning lights. Replacement of the alternator is necessary. $500 - $800+
  • Battery Drain: The battery can drain due to a faulty component, such as a light left on or a parasitic draw. Troubleshooting and repairing the cause of the drain is necessary. $100 - $500+

Exterior

  • Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to not turn on or to stay on constantly. Replacement of the switch is necessary. $100 - $200+
  • Door Handle Breakage: The plastic door handles can become brittle and break. Replacement of the handles is necessary. $100 - $200+

Interior

  • Dashboard Pixel Loss: The digital display on the dashboard can experience pixel loss, causing difficulty reading the information displayed. Replacement of the dashboard is necessary. $500 - $1,000+
  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure: The HVAC blower motor can fail due to wear or electrical issues. Symptoms include lack of air flow from the ventilation system. Replacement of the motor is necessary. $200 - $400+

Summary:

The 1999 BMW Z3 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its potential issues. Some common engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe but can still cause inconvenience. Interior issues are mostly minor, but the dashboard pixel loss can be a major annoyance. Overall, the Z3 is a fun and sporty vehicle, but it is important to be aware of potential repair costs before purchasing one.

BMW, Z3
BMW Z3 1999
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