2014 BMW Z4

The 2014 BMW Z4 is a stylish and sporty roadster that offers a blend of performance and luxury. Engine options include the sDrive28i with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the sDrive35i with a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 generating 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and the sDrive35is with a higher-output version of the 3.0L turbo inline-6, rated at 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The sDrive28i is available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the sDrive35i comes standard with a 6-speed manual or an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the sDrive35is is available exclusively with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the Z4 for its engaging driving dynamics, attractive styling, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include limited storage space, a sometimes rough ride (especially on models with sport suspension), and potentially high maintenance costs associated with a luxury performance car.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (sDrive28i)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or component is the standard fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (sDrive35i & sDrive35is)

• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoid failures can cause rough idling, decreased performance, and engine error codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VANOS solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing gasket. This is a fairly common issue.
  • Solution: Replace the gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The N54 and N55 engines are known to experience fuel injector problems, potentially resulting in misfires and poor fuel economy. Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and engine error codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per injector, depending on the shop and injector brand.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (sDrive28i)

No Issues Found

7-Speed Dual-Clutch (sDrive35i & sDrive35is)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of rough shifting or hesitation, particularly during low-speed maneuvers.
  • Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid changes, or in some cases, clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and required repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive M Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with the Adaptive M Suspension may experience failures in the electronic dampers, leading to a harsh ride or suspension warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. This can lead to difficulty starting or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic drain source (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessories).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Occasional software glitches or malfunctions within the iDrive infotainment system can occur, resulting in screen freezes or unresponsive controls.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience issues, such as slow operation, complete failure to open or close, or hydraulic leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of faulty components, such as hydraulic pumps, cylinders, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors may fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators may fail, causing the doors to not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 BMW Z4, while a desirable sports car, has some potential issues to be aware of. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with engine-related problems (oil leaks, VANOS issues) and convertible top malfunctions potentially being the most expensive to address. Electrical issues and suspension concerns (particularly with the adaptive suspension) can also contribute to the overall ownership cost. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic, and review the vehicle’s maintenance history to make an informed decision.