Inspecting the z4 (common faults etc)

C

Cribert

Member
So we’ve just got a z4 and I’m going to be having it serviced (inspection 2) for piece of mind. Been reading a fair bit but would also like some input from you guys. Things to check (preventative maintenance)on the n52. It’s a 2008 2.5si roadster with 46k miles

- DISA - seems easy to check
- roof motor - how do I access and can someone confirm if the 2008 has issues with water getting in
- underside - I’ll be getting it on ramps and having a good poke about. Anything to look for?
- suspension - rear springs seem an issue
- bodywork - any bits that should be cleaned in case of rust etc

Anything else whilst I’m at it? The car is a good one and I want to keep it perfect
 
You have it pretty well covered with your research. The roof motor is poorly positioned on all models of E85. Mine is still where BMW put it. But general consensus is that it is best to get it move to the boot. A relatively easy job, for those that know how. Ask around forum and you should be able to find someone in your neck not the woods who can shift it.
 
[ref]Cribert[/ref], quite comprehensive your list. To that I would add:
1. inspect/replace coolant expansion tank, radiator and coolant.
And while you're under the car...
2. Brake lines (only thing prone to rusting). In my particular car, with 30k miles, they're in good nick generally, but there are already a couple of spots where the lines are bubbling badly.
3. Remove the roof drain rubber nipples and inspect and clean any dry sludge, leaves, etc. They are ahead of the rear wheels. Also do the same at the top end of the tubes. Something tricky due to poor access from the top. If these tubes get blocked water will build up, flood the roof's pump's motor as well as eventually getting to cavities in the car. Not great. This is a know issue in most if not all convertibles.
4. Check the differential for excessive oil seepage through any of its input or 2 output seals. Known issue. While you're there replace the diff oil. A doddle! You will need a 14mm hex sump plug and 1.3L of the correct fluid. If never replaced before be ready for some stinky nasty stuff to come out.
5. The same as above goes for the gearbox. Only an 8mm hex this time around and under 2L of the stuff.
6. If it's a 'keeper' and you're into your cars I would ignore BMW's oil replacement intervals and replace oil and filter every 7k -10k and never leave it there longer than a year. There's not such thing as 'overservicing' an engine.
 
Check both wing mirrors are securely attached :oops: really & if they are leave a elastic band in glovebox for when one suddenly comes loose , usually out miles from nowhere :driving: i had to stick one back temporarily with a piece of fudge :P
 
wonkydonkey said:
[ref]mr wilks[/ref] fudge :rofl:
Click to expand...

Tis true :oops: halfway through a day out in the Dales , it started wobbling , i pulled over & it virtually fell into my hand , a packet of fudge was in glovebox , the drive continued with mirror held in by using the fudge as putty :D luckily it was the gooey type , i don't think the chalky stuff would have worked so well :D
 
mr wilks said:
wonkydonkey said:
[ref]mr wilks[/ref] fudge :rofl:
Click to expand...

Tis true :oops: halfway through a day out in the Dales , it started wobbling , i pulled over & it virtually fell into my hand , a packet of fudge was in glovebox , the drive continued with mirror held in by using the fudge as putty :D luckily it was the gooey type , i don't think the chalky stuff would have worked so well :D
Click to expand...
Excellent improvisation! I once made an emergency dump valve blanking plate for a mate's Skyline out of 1" thick pine wood. Jeremy Clarkson would be impressed by our skills 8)
 
wonkydonkey said:
mr wilks said:
wonkydonkey said:
[ref]mr wilks[/ref] fudge :rofl:
Click to expand...

Tis true :oops: halfway through a day out in the Dales , it started wobbling , i pulled over & it virtually fell into my hand , a packet of fudge was in glovebox , the drive continued with mirror held in by using the fudge as putty :D luckily it was the gooey type , i don't think the chalky stuff would have worked so well :D
Click to expand...
Excellent improvisation! I once made an emergency dump valve blanking plate for a mate's Skyline out of 1" thick pine wood. Jeremy Clarkson would be impressed by our skills 8)
Click to expand...

I'm not looking forward to reaching the age when I need to fit my car with a valve in case I need an emergency dump!
 
mr wilks said:
Check both wing mirrors are securely attached :oops: really & if they are leave a elastic band in glovebox for when one suddenly comes loose , usually out miles from nowhere :driving: i had to stick one back temporarily with a piece of fudge :P
Click to expand...
You'll never believe this, but I'll tell you anyway.

Went to visit a friend today. He has a Z4M. We were comparing some things on our cars. I shut my driver's door and watched the mirror glass tumble off the mirror and smash. Arse! I said "Good job it waited till today to do that - it only passed its MOT three days ago!". He said "You're joking? Mine passed its MOT this week too and my mirror glass fell off the next day!". :rofl: What??? :lol: :headbang: :lol:

20190505_140916.jpg
 
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