2016 BMW Z4

The 2016 BMW Z4 is a two-seat roadster known for its sporty handling and stylish design. Engine options for the 2016 Z4 include the sDrive28i with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the sDrive35i with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and the sDrive35is with a more powerful version of the same 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 producing 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. All engines were available with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (sDrive35i and sDrive35is), while the sDrive28i used an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Z4’s sharp handling, responsive engines, and attractive styling. Common complaints often revolve around the relatively firm ride (especially with the sport suspension), limited storage space, and some reported reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (sDrive28i)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from various engine seals, such as the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or stretching of the timing chain, potentially causing engine misfires, rough idling, and illuminated check engine light. This is more common in earlier models of this engine (N20).
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (sDrive35i & sDrive35is)

• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the High-Pressure Fuel Pump, leading to extended cranking, rough idling, loss of power, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the Oil Filter Housing Gasket
  • Solution: Replacement of the Oil Filter Housing Gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids, resulting in rough idling, decreased performance, and illuminated check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected VANOS solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (sDrive35i & sDrive35is)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or hesitant shifts, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid change, or in more severe cases, transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive M Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the adaptive dampers, leading to a harsh or bouncy ride, warning lights on the dashboard, and diminished handling performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty adaptive damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings, resulting in clunking noises during suspension movement, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain leading to a dead battery, often caused by a faulty module or parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the battery drain (e.g., faulty module replacement).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the operation of the convertible top, including slow or incomplete opening/closing, error messages, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the cause (e.g., hydraulic pump, sensors, wiring) and repair/replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Wear and Tear
  • Description/Symptoms: Wear, tears, or leaks in the fabric convertible top, particularly along seams and around the edges.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the power seat motors, preventing seat adjustment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• iDrive Controller Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning iDrive controller (knob), resulting in difficulty navigating the iDrive system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the iDrive controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 BMW Z4, while a stylish and enjoyable roadster, can experience a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly oil leaks and timing chain/HPFP concerns, are notable and can be costly to repair. Suspension issues related to the adaptive dampers can also be significant. Electrical problems such as battery drain and convertible top malfunctions add to the potential ownership costs. While not every Z4 will experience all of these issues, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision.