I bin dun summing dumb....!

[FlashPilot]

Greetings y'all,

So.....been looking and hunting for a fun Roadster. I really want a Boxster....but the dreaded IMS issues on earlier cars, give me the horrors and later ones are too much money. I'm a lifelong Beemer lover and have owned 2 x E46 M3's (one was a vert SMG, the other a tin top manual and VERY special), a 330Ci Clubsport, an E36 Alpina (should never have sold it), an E28 535i, E30 530i, E38 530d, E60 535d.....to be honest, the list goes on and on.....and so, I decided to buy a 3.0l Z4 as I'd never owned one and those engines are just so good.

Theres been some on here for sale that are just AMAZING, but I just wanted a cheap ish car that I could use over winter, get on top of, modify and enjoy next Summer.....and I just bought one on auction, without seeing it, as its quite close. It's an 04plate, 3.0 SE, with Sat Nav, Cruise, Black Leather and Metallic grey. 110k miles I think, with an Auto box (keep the missus happy) and 11 stamps in the book.....and I haven't seen it yet. First thing I did, was post this!!!!

Am I being a mug? Whats the most common issues (can already see the wheels are a bit s**t and tyres are cheap n nasty....so they will get swapped)? I need to go over it before parting with the cash. How can I tell if they are Xenon headlights or not (I'm guessing they are Halogen projector jobs)? Lastly....think I will need a nice sounding exhaust to start with.....recommendations gladly accepted!!!!

What have I done....???? :headbang: :headbang: :driving: :rofl:

 

[Jembo]

Auction.... how much did u pay?

If notalot... am sure u can fix most things based on advice here

 

[Smartbear]

Hi, Xeon lights are self levelling so you won’t see an adjustment wheel in the cabin
Rob

 

[FlashPilot]

Okay....dont laugh.... £2850....spec as above :sos: :sos:

 

[Chris_D]

OIL LEAKS!
:lol:

 

[FlashPilot]

Really? Where from....where am I looking?

 

[Mr Tidy]

Just wondering, but if it was close why didn't you see it?

Anyway I hope it works out well!

Don't forget you may need to get the roof motor relocated by a forum member.

 

[GuidoK]

an E36 Alpina (should never have sold it), an E28 535i,

E28 535i....another one you never should have sold....

To see what options you got from factory, just put the last 7 digits of your vin into a bmw vin decoder and you'll see the complete spec:
http://bimmer.work/
https://www.bvzine.com/


As for engine/car issues, there are now hardly any issues that these cars can have that cost serious money, if you can do them yourself.
For most of the problems cheap fixes are available (cheap parts or cheap aftermarket fixes)
Most common problems:
Engine:
vanos problems: replace vanos teflon rings (rebuild kit)
disa problems: new disa or disa rebuild kit
Leaky oil filter housing gasket, leaky valve cover gasket
leaking/cracked coolant tank

Suspension/steering:
Sticky steering: add extra grease or reset gearspacing by turning an eccentric ring
Front control arm bushings

Body/interior
Roof hydraulic motor corrosion due to clogged roof drains: relocate roof motor to the boot: do this as a preventive measure! (multiple privateers/1 man businesses on this forum do this service for a small fee)
Cracked rear brakelight: when fitting a new brakelight, either fit softer springs or be careful when tensioning bolts
Windshield wiper motor assembly can have worn ball links: there is a retaining clip for sale or fix something with a ring and a nut/bolt. When having the parafran removed, adding grease to these steel/rubber balllinks wil prolongue its life.
Take good care of all seals in to the boot (bootlid, no cracked rear brakelight etc. When water collects in the boot, it drains to the batterycompartment which also houses the amplifier to the more expensive stereo systems. Replacing that amplifier (usually water damage) is very expensive.

 

[FlashPilot]

Just wondering, but if it was close why didn't you see it? Well....I happened across it with an hour to run! :lol:

Anyway I hope it works out well! Thanks mate

Don't forget you may need to get the roof motor relocated by a forum member. Who is best to go to for this? I'm near Newbury

 

[Mr Tidy]

Well....I happened across it with an hour to run!

Right - you didn't really have time then! :lol:

For a roof motor your choices would be Bowser134 in Hook, Hants or Number5 in Bristol.

 

[Optinium]

I got my recent Z4M sourced for me without having driven or seen it in the flesh, I did however have the option of backing out as I didn't hand over any money until I'd seen/driven it and when I did get it, it was spot on. The price you stated sounds cheap but then again it's an auction car so it will be. I've bought 3 cars via auction myself 2 which were trouble free and one which had the gearbox crap out 5 miles after picking it up.
Manage your expectation I guess, go in thinking that a lot will need to be done, but I'm confident it will be decent as most BMW's are Fingers crossed.

 

[FlashPilot]

an E36 Alpina (should never have sold it), an E28 535i,

E28 535i....another one you never should have sold....

To see what options you got from factory, just put the last 7 digits of your vin into a bmw vin decoder and you'll see the complete spec:
http://bimmer.work/
https://www.bvzine.com/


As for engine/car issues, there are now hardly any issues that these cars can have that cost serious money, if you can do them yourself.
For most of the problems cheap fixes are available (cheap parts or cheap aftermarket fixes)
Most common problems:
Engine:
vanos problems: replace vanos teflon rings (rebuild kit)
disa problems: new disa or disa rebuild kit
Leaky oil filter housing gasket, leaky valve cover gasket
leaking/cracked coolant tank

Suspension/steering:
Sticky steering: add extra grease or reset gearspacing by turning an eccentric ring
Front control arm bushings

Body/interior
Roof hydraulic motor corrosion due to clogged roof drains: relocate roof motor to the boot: do this as a preventive measure! (multiple privateers/1 man businesses on this forum do this service for a small fee)
Cracked rear brakelight: when fitting a new brakelight, either fit softer springs or be careful when tensioning bolts
Windshield wiper motor assembly can have worn ball links: there is a retaining clip for sale or fix something with a ring and a nut/bolt. When having the parafran removed, adding grease to these steel/rubber balllinks wil prolongue its life.
Take good care of all seals in to the boot (bootlid, no cracked rear brakelight etc. When water collects in the boot, it drains to the batterycompartment which also houses the amplifier to the more expensive stereo systems. Replacing that amplifier (usually water damage) is very expensive.

Awesome stuff....thanks Guidok

I dont wanna talk about the E28....I might cry. I was younger and even more daft then!

Loads of great info.....I will go through this list and keep a hold of it to get it all done and checked. Great stuff peeps

 

[FlashPilot]

I got my recent Z4M sourced for me without having driven or seen it in the flesh, I did however have the option of backing out as I didn't hand over any money until I'd seen/driven it and when I did get it, it was spot on. The price you stated sounds cheap but then again it's an auction car so it will be. I've bought 3 cars via auction myself 2 which were trouble free and one which had the gearbox crap out 5 miles after picking it up.
Manage your expectation I guess, go in thinking that a lot will need to be done, but I'm confident it will be decent as most BMW's are Fingers crossed.

I can walk away....I get to go drive it and mess about with everything before parting with the cash. My expectations aren't high....but I can't help but be a little bit excited Even the missus is looking forward to it (hence the auto....she had grief driving my fave M3....boy racers and a very tricky clutch!)

 

[buzyg]

When are you off to see it and hopefully pick it up?

 

[john-e89]

No not dumb at all, follow GuidoK’s list and you could well end up with a cheap as chips but very very nice roadster...best of luck... :driving:

 

[z4too4]

Hi, I bought my Z4 sight unseen (well I saw a walk around video, and it had to be driven up to me). No regrets but I expected a bit of the unexpected.

Having had a few cars you probably know all this but, in no particular order.
* Pour water down the back corner of the hood to see if water leaks to to floor properly through the drain holes.
* Check the hood cutout microswitch in the boot and the light microswitch in the inbetween seats cubby
* Check the hood interior/exterior cover for holes where it may have got caught/pinched during open close.
* Ideally on a warmish day, check if the steering auto centers correctly.
* They rattle like crazy, but listen out for something not right.
* Check all the plastic under cowlings for cracks etc.
* Remove the front wheel cowlings and check the light housing is well, covered properly.
* Pour water down the windows and boot to see it if ends up in the car.
* While engine running, turn the wheels full lock and listen.
* Open and shut the roof and listen. It shouldn't sound like s childs rattle.
* Check all interior lights, exterior lights function engine on/engine off.
* Check for any mods... Wheels, suspension, fuel, engine, electrical etc.
* Check paintwork all over for dents, defects and internal rust.
* Check all the vents work
* Check the electric windows are smooth and quiet in operation.
* Check window glass for scratches.
* Check headlight housing for internal condensation/leaks
* Remove and replace petrol cap to see whether Engine Management Light goes on.
* Attach an OBD2 scanner and read codes.
* Check engine bay for leaks.
* Check condition of interior trim, ... Doors, seats even behind them, carpets, glove box and between seat cubby hole, window pilllar and window top trim for cracks and splits by looking under the sun visors.
* Heated seats work.... Winter is coming.
* Wheels rims and tyres.
* Take it down a bumpy (not pot holes) road...you should be able to find one easily.
* Check radio and speakers work and sound ok.
* Gear stick, handbrake, steering wheel operation and condition of leather
* Check front and rear bumpers are secured correctly... Clips are easily broken.

Enjoy

 

[Dav the wheel nut]

Don't panic. A 3.0 with 11 stamps in the book seems a reasonable start.
Put the reg no. through the MOT CHECKER just to see how it's been getting on in life

 

[SonnyA85]

an E36 Alpina (should never have sold it), an E28 535i,

E28 535i....another one you never should have sold....

To see what options you got from factory, just put the last 7 digits of your vin into a bmw vin decoder and you'll see the complete spec:
http://bimmer.work/
https://www.bvzine.com/


As for engine/car issues, there are now hardly any issues that these cars can have that cost serious money, if you can do them yourself.
For most of the problems cheap fixes are available (cheap parts or cheap aftermarket fixes)
Most common problems:
Engine:
vanos problems: replace vanos teflon rings (rebuild kit)
disa problems: new disa or disa rebuild kit
Leaky oil filter housing gasket, leaky valve cover gasket
leaking/cracked coolant tank

Suspension/steering:
Sticky steering: add extra grease or reset gearspacing by turning an eccentric ring
Front control arm bushings

Body/interior
Roof hydraulic motor corrosion due to clogged roof drains: relocate roof motor to the boot: do this as a preventive measure! (multiple privateers/1 man businesses on this forum do this service for a small fee)
Cracked rear brakelight: when fitting a new brakelight, either fit softer springs or be careful when tensioning bolts
Windshield wiper motor assembly can have worn ball links: there is a retaining clip for sale or fix something with a ring and a nut/bolt. When having the parafran removed, adding grease to these steel/rubber balllinks wil prolongue its life.
Take good care of all seals in to the boot (bootlid, no cracked rear brakelight etc. When water collects in the boot, it drains to the batterycompartment which also houses the amplifier to the more expensive stereo systems. Replacing that amplifier (usually water damage) is very expensive.

very good list i'll add to it

wipers can rise up high. think it's to do with grease. however the scuttle panel will break all it's clips when removing so i'd leave it tbh unless your scuttle panel is already loose.

the wire that sends the signal to the radiator fan can turn to dust. so it needs replacing every so often.

get a decent battery and keep it charged. the batter will make sensors go off. i used to have alarm and autobox issues until i got a new battery.

lots of rattles and possible leaks in cabin.

108 alloys are expensive to refurb. rear springs usually go and best replacing drop links and bushes too.

parking sensors will stop working. only fix is to replace them all with new ones off ebay. however they will need spraying. they work intermittently with age so that is why best to replace them all. even if only 1 is showing a fault.