2011 BMW Z4
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2011 BMW Z4 (E89), formatted for your website. This focuses on the specific model year and common concerns.
The 2011 BMW Z4 is a two-seat roadster known for its stylish design and engaging driving experience. The 2011 model year offered several engine options: the sDrive28i with a 2.5L inline-6 producing 200 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, the sDrive30i with a 3.0L inline-6 producing 255 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque, and the sDrive35i and sDrive35is with turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 engines producing 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, and 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque respectively. Transmission choices included a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Owners often praise the Z4’s sharp handling, comfortable interior (for a roadster), and powerful engine options. Common dislikes include the relatively small trunk space and potential for expensive repairs.
Engine
sDrive28i (2.5L Inline-6 N52)
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gasket as it ages and hardens. This can lead to burning oil smells, visible oil drips, and eventually low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can experience problems with its solenoids. Symptoms include rough idle, loss of power, and potential for engine stalling. Diagnostic codes related to VANOS functionality will be present.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per solenoid)
- Recalls: None Found
sDrive30i (3.0L Inline-6 N52)
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gasket as it ages and hardens. This can lead to burning oil smells, visible oil drips, and eventually low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- VANOS Solenoid Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can experience problems with its solenoids. Symptoms include rough idle, loss of power, and potential for engine stalling. Diagnostic codes related to VANOS functionality will be present.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per solenoid)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: This gasket can leak oil, leading to similar symptoms as the valve cover gasket leak.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
sDrive35i/sDrive35is (3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 N54)
- High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: A common issue with the N54 engine is HPFP failure. Symptoms include extended cranking, rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, and engine stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Turbochargers can fail, leading to reduced power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potentially smoking exhaust.
- Solution: Turbocharger repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ (depending on whether one or both turbos need replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Wastegate Rattle
- Description/Symptoms: Loose wastegates within the turbochargers can cause a rattling noise, especially during cold starts or at lower RPMs.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbochargers or wastegate repair (if possible).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Fuel injectors can fail or leak, leading to misfires, rough idle, and poor fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (per injector)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can fail. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping.
- Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail and start to cause transmission vibrations and shuddering
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) (sDrive35i/sDrive35is)
- DCT Clutch Wear/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The dual-clutch transmission can experience premature clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping during gear changes, jerky engagement, and difficulty shifting.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can fail. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping.
- Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive M Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with the Adaptive M suspension can experience issues with the electronic dampers. Symptoms include a rough ride, uneven handling, and error messages related to the suspension system.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (per damper)
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises, especially when going over bumps, and imprecise steering.
- Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per control arm)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Parasitic battery drains can occur, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- Convertible Top Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop can experience malfunctions, including getting stuck halfway, failing to open or close completely, or exhibiting slow operation.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the hydraulic system, sensors, or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity of the problem)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Seal Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the convertible top seals, particularly during heavy rain or car washes.
- Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (per seal)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- iDrive Controller Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The iDrive controller can become unresponsive or erratic in its operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the iDrive controller.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Heater Core Failure
- Description/Symptoms: This part failure will cause coolant to leak into the cabin of the vehicle which can cause fogging of the windshield
- Solution: Replacement of the heater core
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 BMW Z4, while a fun and stylish roadster, can present owners with a range of issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the turbocharged N54 engine (if equipped), particularly regarding HPFP failure and turbocharger problems. Transmission issues, especially with the DCT, can also be costly. Electrical and suspension problems are also possibilities. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified BMW mechanic.