BMW E89 Z4 — Roadster Problems

Overview

The E89 Z4 (2009-2016) features a retractable hardtop and was available with N52, N54, and N55 engines.

Engine Issues

N52 (sDrive23i, sDrive28i)

• Standard N52 issues: water pump, VANOS, valve cover
• Most reliable Z4 engine

N54 (sDrive35i, sDrive35is)

• HPFP failure
• Wastegate rattle
• Injector failure
• The sDrive35is had 340 hp — a proper sports car

N55 (sDrive35i late)

• Valve cover / PCV
• Water pump
• More refined than N54

Z4-Specific Issues

Retractable Hardtop

• Hydraulic system leaks — the top mechanism uses hydraulic rams
• Micro switches fail — top gets stuck mid-operation
• Drain tubes clog — water leaks into trunk or cabin
• Motor failure — top motor wears out
• Cost to fix: €500-2,000 depending on issue

Trunk Space

• With top down, trunk space is minimal
• Top mechanism takes up most of the trunk

Wind Buffeting

• Significant wind buffeting with top down at speed
• Wind deflector helps but doesn't eliminate it

Chassis

• Front control arm bushings
• Rear differential mount bushings (can cause clunking)
• Steering rack — can develop play

Buying Advice

The N54 sDrive35i is the performance choice but comes with N54 maintenance. The N52 sDrive28i is the reliable cruiser. Always test the retractable top thoroughly — repairs are expensive.