Z4 2003 Automatic Roof Repair

I bought my car around 3 years ago and finally decided to get the automatic roof fixed (I bought it not working). I had a suspicion that the issue was a leaking hydraulic tube as the roof moved freely with no resistance (no fluid was in the tubing). When the roof disconnects I could hear the motor buzz with no movement.

The mechanic said it was a flat $450AUD labour cost to take the roof off and then they could properly diagnose the issue and buy the appropriate parts. I was warned a new motor would cost $1000AUD if the motor was the issue, apparently this is because there are no aftermarket parts available at the moment. I reluctantly agreed to let them take the roof off and assess the situation.

Today I get a call saying they have bought the new motor before taking the roof off as they were convinced that was the issue. I was sceptical of this because like they said, the roof was still on. This time they were asking if I wanted a new motor housing for water proofing, this would cost $500AUD and is only available from Germany. They wanted to know if I wanted this before they take the roof off, so they don’t have to leave my car without a roof in their garage while they wait for parts. I said no to the new housing so they began to take the roof off and said they would patch the old hosing as best they can.

Same day (Friday arvo) I get a call saying I need to come in on Monday and see what they are looking at so “we can all be on the same page”. What should I expect on Monday and am I being majorly ripped off right now?

Thanks in advance!

TLDR;
Getting automatic roof fixed by mechanic, $1000AUD motor was purchased before roof was removed. Get a call after roof was removed ($450AUD labour) and was told there are additional issues I need to inspect.
 
Hello and welcome.

I can’t help you with the complexities and detail if the job but I do remember this post. I know you say there’s no scope for 2nd hand/aftermarket BMW but there are alternatives.

https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=127890&p=1822661&hilit=Mini+motor#p1822661

Also, not sure what the weatherproofing for the new motor is they’re offering but most members on here relocate their motors in the boot/trunk to protect from water damage

One of the many threads on it but just to give you an idea

https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=129085&hilit=Motor+relocation

Hope you get your issues sorted :thumbsup:

Oh, and you’ll get stick for no pictures of your car :poke:
 
It seems you don't have the aftermarket support that we have in the UK. Roof issues are almost always pump/motor related and are easy to fix for under £200 typically.
 
So they came back to me with the following information.
Currently, they have only removed my roof.
They have said i need to replace the following parts and their sources are quoting $4000.
I am considering grabbing a trailer and picking up my car and roof as i dont think $552 to put the roof on and $1224 for thae labour is reasonable.
At home I will purchase the parts and make the repairs myself.
What are your opinions?

Stage 1 - Remove roof and check -$480 (incurred cost)
Stage 2 - If you are not proceeding refitting the roof - $552 (cost to be incurred)
Total cost - $1032

In the future the following parts would need to be sourced to fix the issue currently experienced:
Part # 54347193448 - Hydraulic Unit
Part# 54347193449 - Hinge Left
Part# 54347193449 - Hinge Right
Part# 54347119639 - Hydraulic Hose
Part# 54347119640 - Hydraulic Hose
Part# 54347114081 - Repair Kit
Labour for removal, installation of parts, testing and refitting the roof will be 8.5 hours at a cost of $1224.
 
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