What reliability score does the BMW Z4 get?

4.8 out of 10, scored from the 8 faults we document for this model and how severe each one is.

Is the 2009–2016 BMW Z4 reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

4.8/ 10

Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the BMW Z4 rates 4.8 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, bodywork and cooling. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical: 0
High: 2
Medium: 5
Low: 1

Weak points cluster around engine, bodywork, cooling, electrical.

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The faults that decide it

BodyworkHigh

Folding hardtop roof mechanism motor and microswitch failures

Typically appears: 60,000+ miles
What to inspect: Operate the roof fully several times and listen for grinding or hesitation
Typical repair: Body & corrosion repair · £250–£1,800

EngineHigh

High-pitched whining noise indicating timing chain guide wear on N20 engines (20i and 28i models built before 2015).

Typically appears: 50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect: Start the engine from cold, hold the revs at 3,000 rpm, and listen closely for a distinct siren-like whine from the front of the engine block.
Typical repair: Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400

CoolingMedium

Water pump and thermostat failures on N20 and N54 engines

Typically appears: 60,000+ miles
What to inspect: Check coolant level and service history for cooling system replacements
Typical repair: Cooling component replacement · £220–£750

EngineMedium

High-pressure fuel pump failures on N54 turbo petrol

Typically appears: 50,000+ miles
What to inspect: Check for hard starting or hesitation and stored fault codes
Typical repair: Turbocharger replacement · £750–£2,200

SuspensionMedium

Front control arm bushes wearing causing vague steering

Typically appears: 60,000+ miles
What to inspect: Check for clonks over bumps and vague feel through the steering
Typical repair: Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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What the score is built from

The faults that decide it

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Reliability of other BMW models