Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2004 Bmw Z4: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

411 owner complaints analyzed

1 distinct recall campaigns

47,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2004 model year. Data updated: . 372 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Steering is the most frequently named component, appearing in 362 of 411 complaints (88.1%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Steering behavior37491.0%
Electrical and battery issues153.6%
Engine operation51.2%
Transmission and shifting41.0%
Braking behavior41.0%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Steering
362
Air Bags
17
Electrical System
14
Steering:Electric Power Assist System
9
Steering:Column
7
Exterior Lighting
6
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
3
Visibility/Wiper
3
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Steering362
Air Bags17
Electrical System14
Steering:Electric Power Assist System9
Steering:Column7
Exterior Lighting6
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)3
Visibility/Wiper3

Steering: 362; Air Bags: 17; Electrical System: 14; Steering:Electric Power Assist System: 9; Steering:Column: 7; Exterior Lighting: 6; Electronic Stability Control (Esc): 3; Visibility/Wiper: 3

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
68
25,000 to 49,999
129
50,000 to 74,999
105
75,000 to 99,999
42
100,000 to 149,999
26
150,000 and above
2
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,00068
25,000 to 49,999129
50,000 to 74,999105
75,000 to 99,99942
100,000 to 149,99926
150,000 and above2

Under 25,000: 68; 25,000 to 49,999: 129; 50,000 to 74,999: 105; 75,000 to 99,999: 42; 100,000 to 149,999: 26; 150,000 and above: 2

25,000 to 49,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (129). 39 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2004
1
2005
5
2006
2
2007
1
2008
13
2009
18
2010
74
2011
57
2012
36
2013
42
2014
29
2015
31
2016
26
2017
11
2018
15
2019
16
2020
17
2021
4
2022
5
2023
3
2024
1
2025
4
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20041
20055
20062
20071
200813
200918
201074
201157
201236
201342
201429
201531
201626
201711
201815
201916
202017
20214
20225
20233
20241
20254

2004: 1; 2005: 5; 2006: 2; 2007: 1; 2008: 13; 2009: 18; 2010: 74; 2011: 57; 2012: 36; 2013: 42; 2014: 29; 2015: 31; 2016: 26; 2017: 11; 2018: 15; 2019: 16; 2020: 17; 2021: 4; 2022: 5; 2023: 3; 2024: 1; 2025: 4

Pattern summary

Steering leads the component reports. Steering behavior appears in 374 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 15 complaint narratives. Engine operation appears in 5 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10058973 · 2004-02-25 (February 25, 2004)

POOR VISABILITY OUT OF CONVERTIBLE CONCELLED DURING TEST DRIVE. CAR HAS LIMITED SIGHT ON RIGHT WITH TOP UP. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10058973 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10118836 · 2005-05-02 (May 2, 2005)

PROBLEM: EPS STEERING GETS VERY STICKY AFTER CAR HAS SAT IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT FOR A FEW HOURS. MINOR STEERING CORRECTIONS ARE NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE. PROBLEM CLEARS UP AFTER CAR HAS BEEN GARAGED FOR A COUPLE HOURS AND ALLOWED TO COOL. THIS PROBLEM MAKES THE CAR FEEL VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I AM CONSTANTLY WORRIED IT MIGHT FAIL ENTIRELY AT SOME POINT -- HOPEFULLY NOT WHILE I AM DRIVING IT. PROBLEM WAS FIRST NOTICED AT THE END OF SUMMER LAST YEAR (2004). CAR WAS PURCHASED IN JULY. THIS YEAR, IT HAS BEGUN ALREADY (SINCE MID-APRIL 2005).

Owner-reported narrative. 1,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10118836 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10127233 · 2005-07-01 (July 1, 2005)

IN VERY HOT HOT WEATHER THE STEERING BECOMES DANGEROUSLY OFF-CENTER.

Owner-reported narrative. 1,775 miles reported. Look up ODI 10127233 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10134090 · 2005-08-24 (August 24, 2005)

MY BMW Z4 YR. 2004 DURING HOT WEATHER SEEMS TO HAVE A STEERING PROBLEM. YHE STEERING STICKS AND FEEL NOTCHY, ON THE HIGHWAY IT ALMOST CAUSED A ACCIDENT DUE TO TRY ING TO STEER AND OVER COMPINSATING. THANK YOU

Owner-reported narrative. 5,300 miles reported. Look up ODI 10134090 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10143297 · 2005-11-21 (November 21, 2005)

WHILE DRIVING WITH TOP DOWN IN COLD WEATHER WITH HEAT ON HIGH, STEERING BECAME STICKY/NOTCHY. I COULDN'T MAKE SMOOTH STEERING CORRECTIONS, ONLY COURSE ONES. AFTER CAR WAS ALLOWED TO COOL OVERNIGHT, PROBLEM WENT AWAY. *JB

Owner-reported narrative. 18,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10143297 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10143324 · 2005-11-21 (November 21, 2005)

IN HOT WEATHER OR AFTER VEHICLE HAS BEEN LEFT IN SUN FOR A FEW HOURS STEERING BECOMES STICKY AND JERKY. MUST APPLY EXCESSIVE FORCE AND CONSTANTLY OVERCORRECT TO KEEP CAR ON COURSE. EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO ENTER AND EXIT SLIGHT TURNS, CHANGE LANES, ETC. *JB

Owner-reported narrative. 13,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10143324 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10158071 · 2006-05-23 (May 23, 2006)

WHEN TEMPERATURES ARE ABOVE 80F THE STEERING STICKS AND REQUIRES MORE INPUT TO OVERCOME THE RESISTANCE. ONCE IT OVERCOMES THE RESISTANCE IT OVER CORRECTS SO THAT YOU HAVE A ZIG ZAG DRIVING PATTERN. I WAS TOLD BMW IS AWARE BUT THERE IS NO FIX ALTHOUGH ONLINE MESSAGE BOARDS STATE MANY HAVE HAD THEIR CARS REPAIRED. *NM

Owner-reported narrative. 26,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10158071 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10162128 · 2006-07-11 (July 11, 2006)

WHEN THE CAR SITS IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME THE STEERING BECOMES DIFFICULT TO CONTROL WITH NO CENTER BALANCE. THE ONLY WAY TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE IS TO PARK THE CAR IN THE SHADE AND WAIT FOR THE STEERING TO RETURN TO NORMAL. *JB

Owner-reported narrative. 3,600 miles reported. Look up ODI 10162128 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

1 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

04V182000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Fuel Pump

Reported: 2004-04-12 (April 12, 2004)

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, UNDER CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, A VAPOR LOCK IN THE FUEL PUMP COULD OCCUR CAUSING THE ENGINE TO STALL. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN, THE ENGINE WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO BE RESTARTED FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 TO 20 MINUTES.

Consequence: IF STALLING WERE TO OCCUR, THE DRIVER WOULD BE UNABLE TO MAINTAIN VEHICLE SPEED OR ACCELERATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RESISTOR IN THE ELECTRICAL LINE POWERING THE FUEL PUMP IN ORDER TO PREVENT AN OCCURRENCE OF VAPOR LOCK. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 11, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

411 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

90.5%Usable mileage372 / 411 records
100.0%Valid incident date411 / 411 records
100.0%Valid filing date411 / 411 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates411 / 411 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component2009201020112012201320142015201620192020202120222023
Steering
14.5%
ODI 10513346

MY REAR RIMS HAVE DEVELOPED CRACKS WHILE DRIVING RESULTING IN QUICK LOSS OF TIRE PRESSURE AND IN SOME CASES DESTROYING TIRE. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDES, HOWEVER THUS FAR HAS ALWAYS BEEN ISOLATED TO THE REAR (MODEL 296 19") RIMS. IN THE 16 MONTHS I HAVE OWNED THIS VEHICLE, THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES INCLUDING ON 5/11/2012, 9/9/12, 4/12/13 AND 5/23/13. EACH TIME I HAVE PURCHASED A NEW RIM OR HAD THE EXISTING RIM REPAIRED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE DEALER. IN NONE OF THESE CASES HAS THERE BEEN ANY IMPACT OR DRIVING…

Look up ODI 10513346 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1226.1%
ODI 10898049 · 34,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW Z4. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING SEIZED AND MADE THE VEHICLE DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING MECHANISM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V302000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,000.

Look up ODI 10898049 at NHTSA ↗

120.0%
ODI 11630547 · 16,000 mi

The contact owns a 2012 BMW Z4. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH and turning to the left, the steering wheel seized, and the contact had to use force to return the steering wheel back to center. The contact stated that the failure occurred at various speeds while turning left or right. The contact stated that the vehicle was shuddering while the steering wheel was turned to the left or right. The vehicle regained normal steering functionality when the vehicle was stopped and turned off and restarted. The contact stated the …

Look up ODI 11630547 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 10919319 · 24,345 mi

JUST PURCHASED A USED BMW Z4 AND REALIZE THAT THE STEERING IS STICKY. IN RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM FOUND THAT THIS HAD BEEN A A SAFETY ISSUE THAT RESULTED IN A RECALL. MY CAR WAS MANUFACTURED IN 2012 WHEN THERE WAS A SAFETY RECALL ON A STEERING ISSUE. WHILE MY CAR IS A 2013 IT WAS MANUFACTURED AS NOTED DURING THE TIME OF THE STEERING RECALL. IT APPEARS THAT MY PROBLEM MAY NOT BE JUST A COINCIDENT. THE STICKY STEERING OCCURS WHENEVER THE SPEED IS ABOVE 30 MPH AND FEELS AS IF THE STEERING IS TRYING TO STAY IN A DIRECTION CONTRARY TO THE DIRECTION…

Look up ODI 10919319 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

120.0%
ODI 11599320

Reporting premature part fail. -The 2019 BMW has 14,300 miles. The vehicle recently failed VT state inspection for "Play in control arm ball joints" Normal ball joint replacement is usually in the 60,000 mile range. The 1st recommended check of steering components per BMW service manual is is "6th engine oil service (approx 60,000 miles)". There was no warning of the premature fail. The failed parts will be replaced and used parts preserved for inspection if needed.

Look up ODI 11599320 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11289091 · 200 mi

BMW'S LANE DEPARTURE SYSTEM ACTUALLY PULLS THE CAR'S STEERING LEFT OR RIGHT, AND COULD CAUSE THE CAR TO COLLIDE WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE OR RUN OFF THE ROAD. I EXPERIENCED THIS WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. THE LANE DEPARTURE SYSTEM ALMOST PULLED MY VEHICLE INTO THE ADJACENT LANE.

Look up ODI 11289091 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Air Bags
14.5%
ODI 11571078

The airbag sensor in my passenger seat has failed. I have been quoted approximately $2000 to repair this. However researching online I see BMW Service Bulletin SB-[XXX] which indicates this may be a widespread problem? [XXX] I am concerned to take passengers in the vehicle as I do not know if the airbags will deploy, or deploy at the wrong "rate" based on my understanding of how the sensors work. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Look up ODI 11571078 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

228.6%
ODI 10985834 · 70,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR AND "PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT NOT ON" INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. WHEN THE PASSENGER EXITED THE VEHICLE, THE INDICATORS DIMMED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED TWO OTHER TIMES. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE MAP SENSOR NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.

Look up ODI 10985834 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 11681645 · 111,544 mi

The contact owns a 2014 BMW Z4. The contact stated that rodents had chewed through some electrical wiring in the vehicle. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact was unable to monitor the oil levels due to the damaged electrical wiring. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions, where it was determined that the electrical wiring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The contact was informed about other methods to deter the varmints from chewing on the electrical wiring. …

Look up ODI 11681645 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

120.0%
ODI 11441010

The automatic emergency did not engage the brakes as described to by the dealer, BMW genius and the BMW website. The car was in a collision at low speed (under 35mph) with the car in front of me which put me at risk. BMW sent an engineer from N.J. to inspect the car. The is under warranty and it was in perfect working order. The engineer determined that the system did not engage because the accelerator was depressed, I was told that the system does not work when the accelerator is depressed but that is not how the system is advertised and it is…

Look up ODI 11441010 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
29.1%
ODI 10356178 · 11,200 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BMW Z4 CONVERTIBLE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10-20 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. HE WAS ABLE TO IMMEDIATELY RESTART THE VEHICLE WITHOUT HESITATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE WOULD OCCUR INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE COMPUTER WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER OPERATE FOLLOWING REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT WITH THE DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.…

Look up ODI 10356178 at NHTSA ↗

110.0%
ODI 10730345 · 10,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW Z4. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V044000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 10,000.

Look up ODI 10730345 at NHTSA ↗

36.5%
ODI 10525291 · 32,000 mi

ON 01/05/2012, BMW SERVICE CENTER REPLACED AN IDRIVE PART AND REPROGRAMMED THE CAR. WHEN I PICKED UP THE CAR, I NOTICED AC IS NOT WORKING. SERVICE CENTER TOOK IT BACK AND DID A MASTER RESET. AFTER THAT SEVERAL TIMES I HAD THE ISSUE AND THEY COULDN'T FIX IT. ON 07/15/2013, I NOTICED THE AC IS NOT WORKING. IT WAS 85F OUTSIDE. I CALLED THE SERVICE MANAGER AND DROVE THE CAR TO HIM. HE CHECKED THE CAR AND CONFIRMED AC IS NOT WORKING. THEY TOOK THE CAR AND GAVE ME A LOANER. NEXT DAY THEY FOUND SOME ERROR CODES STORED IN THE CAR. WHILE THEY ARE LOOKIN…

Look up ODI 10525291 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11638768

The contact owns a 2012 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11638768 at NHTSA ↗

342.9%
ODI 11582362 · 52,954 mi

The contact owns a 2013 BMW Z4. The contact stated that upon the start of the vehicle, the vehicle failed to reverse without warning upon depression of the accelerator pedal while in the reverse(R) position. The contact stated that the vehicle resumed normal operation upon restart of the engine. A few days later while the contact's husband was driving at 30 MPH, the vehicle continued to accelerate upon depression of the brake pedal. The brake pedal was depressed multiple times but to no avail, as a result, the contact's husband crashed into ano…

Look up ODI 11582362 at NHTSA ↗

342.9%
ODI 11643873 · 26,000 mi

The contact owns a 2014 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was smoke entering the cabin of the vehicle through the A/C vents. There were no warning lights i…

Look up ODI 11643873 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11647400

The contact owns a 2015 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11647400 at NHTSA ↗

125.0%
ODI 11643614

The contact owns a 2016 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11643614 at NHTSA ↗

120.0%
ODI 11701698

The contact owns a 2019 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V636000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Look up ODI 11701698 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11719116

Engine starter safety recall came out in September 2025, with no remedy or parts existing for fixing it. 5 months later, and no timeframe is provided for a remedy. This is a major fire risk given the amount of rain now that could corrode the starter and lead to a fire.

Look up ODI 11719116 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1100.0%
ODI 11520301

The contact owns a 2022 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V099000 (Visibility, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and advised the contact to locate parts near to his residence. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11520301 at NHTSA ↗

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
418.2%
ODI 10597727 · 28,000 mi

THE CAR HAS STALLED MULTIPLE TIME WHEN COMING TO A STOP. IN SOME INSTANCES I DID NOT HAVE TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP SUCH AS CROSSING A DIVIDED HIGHWAY, JUST SLOWED SIGNIFICANTLY. AS I WENT TO ACCELERATE THROUGH THE INTERSECTION THE ENGINE HAD STALLED AND I WAS STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION WITH NO POWER. CAR STARTS RIGHT BACK UP EACH TIME BUT YOU MUST STOP TO PLACE THE CAR IN DRIVE(AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). NEARLY HIT BY ONCOMING TRAFFIC ON 3 SEPARATE OCCASIONS. DEALERSHIP WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE, SOLD ME A $400 BATTERY AS THE FIX. C…

Look up ODI 10597727 at NHTSA ↗

110.0%
ODI 10627984

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V176000 (ENGINE). THE DEALER COULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE FOR EIGHT MONTHS BECAUSE THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Look up ODI 10627984 at NHTSA ↗

1021.7%
ODI 10509245 · 7,005 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOUR TIMES BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE REPRODUCED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS GIVEN. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,005 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 12,000.

Look up ODI 10509245 at NHTSA ↗

120.0%
ODI 11350908 · 65,900 mi

NOTICED WHINING NOISE FROM ENGINE ALTHOUGH IT DRIVES NORMALLY. BMW DEALER CONFIRMS TIMING CHAIN NEEDS REPLACEMENT. MY CAR IS AT 8 YEARS, 66K MILES - JUST OVER THE 7/70 WARRANTY EXTENSION FOR TIMING CHAIN. I UNDERSTAND THERE IS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT STILL PENDING ON THIS KNOWN ISSUE. IT HAS BEEN DEALERSHIP SERVICED SINCE IT WAS PURCHASED WITH FULL RECORDS.

Look up ODI 11350908 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

120.0%
ODI 11691012

My 2015 BMW Z4 vehicle has a coolant pump safety recall. It reportedly could cause a short circuit and thermal event or fire. I bought the vehicle while living elsewhere and am now in a small community with 4 major automobile dealers but not BMW. The nearest BMW dealer is about 220 miles away. I contacted that dealer. The service rep said it is 1.5-2 day repair and a loaner vehicle may be available. The repair time sounds wrong but is what she said. She said the dealership would not work with any facility close to me to make the repair so I mu…

Look up ODI 11691012 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

240.0%
ODI 11301139 · 200 mi

MY NEW CAR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON AND I HAVE BOUGHT IT INTO SERVICE APPOX 5 TIMES. THE LIGHT GOES OFF AND WHEN I GET IT HOME IT GOES ON AGAIN WHEN I START THE CAR. I THOUGHT IT WAS FIXED. HOWEVER IT CAME ON AGAIN AND I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT.

Look up ODI 11301139 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11363216 · 3,300 mi

WAS IN A DRIVE THRU ON 9/6/2020 WAITING OUR TURN. APPROX. 7 CARS IN FRONT OF US. AS WE ARE SLOWLY MOVING UP TO ORDER, CAR IN IDLE, FOOT ON BRAKE. AS WE ARE MOVING FORWARD, WHEN WE WERE UP TO 3 CARS, STILL IDLING AND FOOT ON BRAKE, THE CAR HAD FULLY ACCELERATED, BRAKE NOT HOLDING THE CAR, INCHING FORWARD DUE TO THE FORCE OF THE ACCELERATION. TRIED TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, WENT INTO REVERSE. TRIED AGAIN TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, WENT INTO DRIVE, STILL INCHING FORWARD, AT THIS TIME I PUSHED THE OFF BUTTON TO STOP THE CAR. RESULT OF COLLISION WIT…

Look up ODI 11363216 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling
14.5%
ODI 10356054 · 11,000 mi

I AM LEASING A 2009 Z4 BMW, THE ENGINE CAR STALL WHILE DRIVING THIS HAPPENED TWICE IN A PERIOD OF 2 WEEKS, I ALMOST HAVE A CAR CRASH BEHIND IN BOTH OPPORTUNITIES, THANKS THAT THE TRAFFIC WAS VERY SLOW, THE SECOND TIME I HAVE TO GO OUT THE ROAD. I BROUGHT THE CAR THE FOR SERVICE, THEY WERE ABLE TO REPRODUCE THE FAILURE, AFTER ONE WEEK AT THE SHOP THEY SAY IT WAS A COMPUTER FAILURE, THEY REPLACE THE COMPUTER HOWEVER AFTER 2 WEEKS THE CAR STILL IN THE SHOP I HAVE CALL SEVERAL TIMES TO CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THE SERVICE SHOP BUT I DON'T GET ANY SPEC…

Look up ODI 10356054 at NHTSA ↗

330.0%
ODI 10339068 · 9,000 mi

WHENEVER SLOWING DOWN TO A NEAR STOP, THE ENGINE WILL RANDOMLY STALL. THIS CAN OCCUR AT ANYTIME, BUT IS MORE LIKELY TO OCCUR WHEN THE OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE IS IN THE 90'S OR ABOVE (IT WILL STALL IN COLD TEMPERATURE AS WELL, BUT NOT AS OFTEN). THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE AT THE TIME OF THE STALL IS ALWAYS COMPLETELY NORMAL, THE CAR IS NOT OVERHEATING IN ANYWAY. IT IS ALSO MORE LIKELY TO OCCUR IN "SPORT MODE". THIS ISSUE ONLY EFFECTS BMW E89 3.0 AUTOMATICS. AN AUTOMATIC SHOULD NEVER STALL. ONCE THE ENGINE STALLS YOU ARE FORCED TO STOP THE CAR …

Look up ODI 10339068 at NHTSA ↗

715.2%
ODI 11490352 · 52,000 mi

The contact owns a 2011 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V119000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, he started to smell a burning plastic odor. Additionally, white smoke started coming from the vents. The contact stated that the smoke was not heavy but steady. The contact was unaware of any warning lights being illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was n…

Look up ODI 11490352 at NHTSA ↗

360.0%
ODI 11461364 · 111,164 mi

The contact's wife owns a 2012 BMW Z4. The contact stated while driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle overheated and started decelerating independently. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal but the vehicle failed to respond. The warning message "Engine Overheat; Pull Over and Turn Off Vehicle" was illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle was still overheating. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that t…

Look up ODI 11461364 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 11622449

The contact owns a 2013 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System ); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. No further information was available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirm parts not available.

Look up ODI 11622449 at NHTSA ↗

228.6%
ODI 11643873 · 26,000 mi

The contact owns a 2014 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was smoke entering the cabin of the vehicle through the A/C vents. There were no warning lights i…

Look up ODI 11643873 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 11647400

The contact owns a 2015 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11647400 at NHTSA ↗

125.0%
ODI 11643614

The contact owns a 2016 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11643614 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Wheels
1150.0%
ODI 10436662 · 16,000 mi

THIS PROBLEM AFFECTS WHEEL STYLE "296" A 19" OPTIONAL ALLOY WHEEL PACKAGE FOR E89 BMW Z4. BMW PART NUMBER 36116785257(REAR WHEEL 19X9) AND 36116785256(FRONT WHEEL 19X8. UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS, MULTIPLE CRACKS DEVELOPED ON INNER EDGE OF RIM LIP LEADING TO LARGE DROP IN TIRE PRESSURE AND POTENTIALLY UNSAFE DRIVING CONDITION. THIS HAPPENED TO (1) OF MY REAR WHEELS. AFTER DOING RESEARCH, I STRONGLY BELIEVE THIS IS A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT AS MANY OWNERS OF THE SAME PARTICULAR WHEEL MODEL "296" ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS. IT IS NOTED …

Look up ODI 10436662 at NHTSA ↗

110.0%
ODI 10412024 · 7,131 mi

REAR RIMS CRACKING ON 2010 BMW Z4 WITH ONLY 7,200 MILES. DEALER STATES ISSUE CAUSED BY POT HOLES, BUT COULD NOT EXPLAIN WHY FRONT RIMSWERE NOT CRACKED. *TT

Look up ODI 10412024 at NHTSA ↗

715.2%
ODI 10461043 · 8,900 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AIR WAS LEAKING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PERSONAL MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WAS CRACKED AND THAT IT WAS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE A TOTAL OF FIVE CRACKS ON THE REAR WHEELS. THE REAR DRIVER'S WHEEL SUFFERED THREE CRACKS AND THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL SUFFERED TWO CRACKS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CRACKS WERE CAUSED BY POTHOLES. THE MA…

Look up ODI 10461043 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

114.3%
ODI 11081688

S10 APPROPRIATE HANDLING - COPY OF AN EMAIL TO BMW REGARDING CRACKS IN THE WHEEL. *LD THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR EXPENSES INCURRED AND NEW SET OF WHEELS. *JS

Look up ODI 11081688 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 10743569 · 30,000 mi

THE TIRE ON MY Z4 RUB THE INSIDE WHEEL WELL CAUSING THE TIRE TO BLOW OUT. WHEN I TOOK THE WHEEL TO BE REPAIRED, THE MANAGER OF THE TIRE COMPANY SAID THIS WAS A FACTORY DEFECT THAT HE IS SEEING ON MOST OF THE Z4'S. HE SAID IT WILL CONTINUE TO HAPPEN AS THE CAMBER CAN'T BE ADJUSTED OUT FAR ENOUGH TO STOP THIS RUBBING. I CONTACT BMW BUT THEY SAID IT WAS MY FAULT; THAT I PROBABLY HIT TOO MANY POT HOLES, I DROVE TOO FAST, I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WOULD HAPPEN SINCE IT IS A SPORTS CAR. THEY ALSO SAID I SHOULD HAVE HAD THE CAR REALIGNED EVERY YEA…

Look up ODI 10743569 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Steering:Electric Power Assist System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

12.2%
ODI 11462141 · 70,000 mi

The contact owns a 2011 BMW Z4. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that the steering was locked in a slight left turn and he had to apply the brakes to keep the vehicle on the road. The contact was able to pull off to the left side of the highway. The contact stated that a yellow steering wheel warning light was illuminated, and a warning bell was chiming. The contact turned the vehicle off and upon restarting the power steering functionality returned. The con…

Look up ODI 11462141 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes
14.5%
ODI 11340972 · 5 mi

EBRAKE FAILURE. I WENT ON THE Z4 FORUM AND MANY PEOPLE REPORT THIS SAME ISSUE OF THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE / EMERGENCY BRAKE SIMPLY FAILING TO WORK.

Look up ODI 11340972 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

510.9%
ODI 10546719 · 33,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT DECELERATE. THE CONTACT MANEUVERED THE VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO A CURB IN ORDER TO GET IT TO STOP. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT THE CONTACT WAS NOT INFORMED OF WHAT CAUSED THE SHAKING OR BRAKING FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 33,000.

Look up ODI 10546719 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

114.3%
ODI 11645390

I got my car serviced at BMW of Tucson in 2022 and they ruined the electrical in my car. Additionally, they might have created another key. I also noticed that my software was downgraded by them and the alarm stopped working correctly.

Look up ODI 11645390 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 11014613 · 25,000 mi

WHILE PARKING IN PARKING LOT, DEPRESSED THE BRAKES AND THE CAR ACCELERATED. CONTINUED TO BRAKE AND THE CAR KEPT ACCELERATING UNTIL I HIT A POLE.

Look up ODI 11014613 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

240.0%
ODI 11363216 · 3,300 mi

WAS IN A DRIVE THRU ON 9/6/2020 WAITING OUR TURN. APPROX. 7 CARS IN FRONT OF US. AS WE ARE SLOWLY MOVING UP TO ORDER, CAR IN IDLE, FOOT ON BRAKE. AS WE ARE MOVING FORWARD, WHEN WE WERE UP TO 3 CARS, STILL IDLING AND FOOT ON BRAKE, THE CAR HAD FULLY ACCELERATED, BRAKE NOT HOLDING THE CAR, INCHING FORWARD DUE TO THE FORCE OF THE ACCELERATION. TRIED TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, WENT INTO REVERSE. TRIED AGAIN TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, WENT INTO DRIVE, STILL INCHING FORWARD, AT THIS TIME I PUSHED THE OFF BUTTON TO STOP THE CAR. RESULT OF COLLISION WIT…

Look up ODI 11363216 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Steering30,000–67,926 mi48,000 mi329
ODI 10158071 · 26,000 mi

WHEN TEMPERATURES ARE ABOVE 80F THE STEERING STICKS AND REQUIRES MORE INPUT TO OVERCOME THE RESISTANCE. ONCE IT OVERCOMES THE RESISTANCE IT OVER CORRECTS SO THAT YOU HAVE A ZIG ZAG DRIVING PATTERN. I WAS TOLD BMW IS AWARE BUT THERE IS NO FIX ALTHOUGH ONLINE MESSAGE BOARDS STATE MANY HAVE HAD THEIR CARS REPAIRED. *NM

Look up ODI 10158071 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10225855 · 42,954 mi

STEERING STICKS IN HIGH TEMP. *TR

Look up ODI 10225855 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10226444 · 40,300 mi

STEERING PROBLEM AT 45+MPH WITH VEHICLE, STEERING IS VERY STICKY GOING STRAIGHT, CONSTANT CORRECTIONS CAUSE OVER STEERING, STEERING WHEEL DOES NOT RETURN TO NEUTRAL POSITION ON CURVES LEADING TO DANGEROUS CONDITIONS, TESTED TO 75 + MPH, GETS WORSE AT HIGHER SPEEDS OF FREEWAY DRIVING. JUST TOOK POSSESSION OF USED VEHICLE UNDER WARRANTY. *TR

Look up ODI 10226444 at NHTSA ↗

Air Bags41,750–68,814 mi60,213 mi14
ODI 10424703 · 35,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHENEVER THE ENGINE WAS IN OPERATION AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THE CONSTANT FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO A FAULTY PASSENGER OCCUPANCY SEAT MAT SENSOR. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE CONTACT PLANNED TO NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.

Look up ODI 10424703 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10426364 · 91,500 mi

WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK TODAY MY CAR EXPERIENCED A POWER STEERING ISSUE WHERE THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD "FREEZE" OR "STICK" IN ONE PLACE. I HAD TO EXERT A LOT OF FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET THE STEERING WHEEL TO MOVE BUT WHEN IT "BROKE FREE" IT TURNED A LOT WITH THE HELP OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP BECAUSE I WAS PUTTING SO MUCH FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET IT TO MOVE. I HAD A HARD TIME KEEPING THE CAR IN MY LANE. THE POWER STEERING WAS DOING THIS THE ENTIRE DRIVE HOME OF 20 MILES. THE CAR WAS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THIS ISSUE NEEDS TO …

Look up ODI 10426364 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10454143 · 40,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED SPORADICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,000.

Look up ODI 10454143 at NHTSA ↗

Electrical System32,000–86,000 mi56,000 mi13
ODI 10341411 · 22,968 mi

2004 BMX Z4, STEERING BECAME UNRESPONSIVE WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. OVER CORRECTION TO REGAIN CONTROL NARROWLY AVOIDING TRAFFIC AND CENTER DIVIDER. AT SLOWER SPEEDS IT FELT LIKE THERE WAS NO STEERING FLUID IN CAR. VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. BMW DEALER HAD REPLACEMENT STEERING COLUMN IN STOCK IT TOOK 2 DAYS TO REPLACE AT A COST OF $2942.02. *TR

Look up ODI 10341411 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10428005 · 86,000 mi

WATER GETS INTO THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT THROUGH THE RUBBER GROMMET THAT CARRY'S THE MAIN BATTERY CABLE FROM THE TRUNK TO THE FRONT OF THE CAR. CAR STEREO AMPLIFIER DESTROYED. *TR

Look up ODI 10428005 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10443737 · 32,000 mi

THE STEERING BINDS AT ALMOST ANY SPEED. I NOTICED IT WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT FORWARD. WHEN A CORRECTION IN DIRECTION IS MADE THE WHEEL BINDS UNTIL GREATER PRESSURE IS APPLIED. IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM IS REQUIRING EVEN MORE PRESSURE FOR THE CORRECTION. I CALLED BMWNA AND THEY TOLD ME THEY HAVE HEARD NOTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I AM IN FEAR FOR MY SAFETY AS WELL AS OTHERS AROUND BMW'S Z-4 2004. *TR

Look up ODI 10443737 at NHTSA ↗

Steering:Electric Power Assist System1,775–13,000 mi5,300 mi9
ODI 10118836 · 1,000 mi

PROBLEM: EPS STEERING GETS VERY STICKY AFTER CAR HAS SAT IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT FOR A FEW HOURS. MINOR STEERING CORRECTIONS ARE NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE. PROBLEM CLEARS UP AFTER CAR HAS BEEN GARAGED FOR A COUPLE HOURS AND ALLOWED TO COOL. THIS PROBLEM MAKES THE CAR FEEL VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I AM CONSTANTLY WORRIED IT MIGHT FAIL ENTIRELY AT SOME POINT -- HOPEFULLY NOT WHILE I AM DRIVING IT. PROBLEM WAS FIRST NOTICED AT THE END OF SUMMER LAST YEAR (2004). CAR WAS PURCHASED IN JULY. THIS YEAR, IT HAS BEGUN ALREADY (SINCE MID-APRIL 2005).

Look up ODI 10118836 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10127233 · 1,775 mi

IN VERY HOT HOT WEATHER THE STEERING BECOMES DANGEROUSLY OFF-CENTER.

Look up ODI 10127233 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10134090 · 5,300 mi

MY BMW Z4 YR. 2004 DURING HOT WEATHER SEEMS TO HAVE A STEERING PROBLEM. YHE STEERING STICKS AND FEEL NOTCHY, ON THE HIGHWAY IT ALMOST CAUSED A ACCIDENT DUE TO TRY ING TO STEER AND OVER COMPINSATING. THANK YOU

Look up ODI 10134090 at NHTSA ↗

Steering:Column33,500–51,500 mi42,500 mi7
ODI 10281967 · 62,938 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED WHEN THE TEMPERATURE WAS OVER 85 DEGREES. IT WAS DIFFICULT TO MAKE RIGHT AND LEFT TURNS AND DRIVE NORMALLY WITHOUT VEERING INTO ANOTHER LANE AND LOOSING STEERING CONTROL. THE DEALER STATED THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED IN THE STEERING COLUMN ASSEMBLY. THE ESTIMATED COST TO REPAIR THE STEERING ASSEMBLY WAS $3,400. THE MANUFACTURER IS AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THEY WILL INVESTIGATE AND LET HER KNOW IF THEY WILL ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR COST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,938. UPDATED…

Look up ODI 10281967 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10299042 · 42,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. IT BECOMES DIFFICULT FOR THE CONTACT TO CONTROL THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD; THEREFORE; HE DOESN'T DRIVE THE VEHICLE DURING THE WINTER MONTHS. THE DEALERS DIAGNOSIS CONFIRMED THAT THE STEERING COLUMN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT AN ESTIMATE COST OF $3,000. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 52,000.

Look up ODI 10299042 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10327935 · 42,500 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL STUCK WHEN DRIVING ABOVE 50 MPH. THE FAILURE OCCURRED DAILY IF THE TEMPERATURE WAS ABOVE 65 DEGREES. IT WAS DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE VEHICLE CENTERED. THE VEHICLE WAS AT AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT AND THE DEALER SUGGESTED THAT THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THEY WERE UNAWARE OF THAT PARTICULAR PROBLEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,50…

Look up ODI 10327935 at NHTSA ↗

Exterior Lighting49,250–117,898 mi60,022 mi6
ODI 10228807 · 39,000 mi

MY BMW Z4 WHICH IS STILL UNDER WARRANTY HAS DEFECTIVE HEADLIGHTS AND THE DEALER REFUSES TO REPAIR THEM. BMW USED AN INFERIOR TYPE OF PLASTIC WHICH IS CLOUDING OVER AND PREVENTING THE HEADLIGHTS FROM WORKING CORRECTLY. PLEASE RECALL THESE VEHICLES SO THAT BMW WILL REPAIR THE LIGHTS AND MAKE IT SAFE TO DRIVE AT NIGHT AGAIN. *TR

Look up ODI 10228807 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10575069 · 47,000 mi

PASSENGER'S AIRBAG INDICATION LIGHT IS MALFUNCTIONED. THE INDICATION LIGHT OF PASSENGER'S AIRBAG SHOWS ALWAYS OFF. THEREFORE IT CAN'T TELL THE AIRBAG IS ON OR OFF. *TR

Look up ODI 10575069 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10743567 · 56,000 mi

I LEFT MY BMW IN THE SUN ALL DAY AND NOW MY LOCKS WONT WORK. MANY RESOURCES LINK THIS PROBLEM TO THE GM5 WHICH CONTROLS THE LIGHTING AND LOCKS. BAD LOCKS CAN BE A SAFETY AND SECURITY ISSUE ON PARKED CARS BUT ALSO FOR MOVING CARS AS CHILDREN MAY OPEN VEHICLE DOORS IN TRAFFIC.

Look up ODI 10743567 at NHTSA ↗

Electronic Stability Control (Esc)Too few reports for a range49,500 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10478149 · 39,000 mi

I HAVE A 2004 Z4 THAT I PURCHASED LAST AUGUST USED. I RARELY DROVE THE CAR AND KEPT IT MAINLY FOR LEISURE UNTIL THIS PAST JULY. THIS JULY, ON THE DRIVE FROM WARNER ROBINS, GA TO HILTON HEAD, SC, I NOTICED THE STEERING WOULD STICK AND I HAD TO USE FORCE TO GET IT BACK ALIGNED WITH THE ROAD. SINCE THAT TIME EACH DAY WHEN I LEAVE WORK AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN PARKED ALL DAY IN THE HEAT IT DOES THE SAME THING. ITS ALMOST AS IF THE CAR IS TRACKING. NORMALLY MY SPEED DOES NOT EXCEED 40 MPH. I HAVE HAD THE TIRES CHECKED, THEY ARE NEW RUN FLAT TI…

Look up ODI 10478149 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10508059 · 49,500 mi

LOSS OF ELECTRICAL ASSISTED STEERING/STEERING WHEEL VERY SLUGGISH. *TR

Look up ODI 10508059 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11253350 · 100,200 mi

THIS IS A REOCCURRING PROBLEM WHICH I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THROUGH BOTH LOCAL MECHANICS AND BMW WITH NO RESULTS. ESSENTIALLY, WHILE MOVING AT SLOW SPEEDS OR STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM "SHUDDERS", ALL INSTRUMENT LIGHTS ILLUMINATE, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTS TO NEUTRAL, AND THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN THEN RESTARTS. THE FAILURE OCCURS ON AN IRREGULAR BASIS, AFFECTING PRIMARILY THE EPS LIGHT, BUT MAY ALSO AFFECT ALL LIGHTS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. LIKEWISE, IT MAY OR MAY NOT MOVE MY TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL AND IF THAT HAPPENS, MAY OR…

Look up ODI 11253350 at NHTSA ↗

Visibility/WiperToo few reports for a range135,850 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10690075 · 55,000 mi

DRIVER SIDE MIRROR FELL OFF AND HANGED BY ELECTRICAL WIRES AT 65 MILES PER HOUR ON THE FREEWAY. SIDE MIRROR WOBBLES WHILE DRIVING AND MAKE JUDGMENT DIFFICULT. POOR WORKMANSHIP, DESIGN OR ASSEMBLY IS PROBABLY THE CAUSE. *TR

Look up ODI 10690075 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11341390 · 145,000 mi

REOCCURING ISSUE: -DOOR LOCKS NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR CENTRAL BUTTON -WIPERS NOT FUNCTIONING -TRUNK RELEASE NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR BUTTON -WINDOWS NOT FUNCTIONING -LIGHTING OF INTERIOR NOT WORKING, TO INCLUDE GAUGE CLUSTER -TOP NOT FUNCTIONING ISSUES INTENSIFY ON DAYS OF LOW/HIGHER TEMPERATURES. SEEMS TO RESET BY DISCONNECTING BATTERY AND RECONNECTING AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES. ISSUES POINTS TO GM5 MODULE BEING FAULTY/FAILING THIS IS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL YOU START THE CAR, SEEMS TO BE A RANDOM OCCURRENCE, BUT HAPPENS AT LE…

Look up ODI 11341390 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

2 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-021None
ODI 11642101

The electric steering gets sticky when very often. It feels locked in its position and requires extra force to unstick, once its past the sticking point it over corrects and causes the vehicle to swerve. This failure seems to be quite common and is well known. It seems to be a manufacturing defect inside the electric steering column. I believe it should be investigated by NHTSA. The last time it happened my car went off onto the soft shoulder. The manufacturer should repair the steering. It’s a widely known issue.

Look up ODI 11642101 at NHTSA ↗

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-041None
ODI 11653689

Power steering stopped working.

Look up ODI 11653689 at NHTSA ↗

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-062None
ODI 11664730

Power steering wheel went out of power during a trip at about 70mph. Yellow light at the dashboard went ON then so, car became imposible to drive or so.

Look up ODI 11664730 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11665759

Twice this month, while operating the vehicle, the power steering completely stopped functioning, causing the vehicle to be almost uncontrollable. No prior warning light. When I purchased the vehicle in 2018, the same problem occurred and the dealer replaced the steering column under warranty. In researching online I find that this is a common problem with this model. I am surprised to find that there is no recall notice for what is a major safety concern.

Look up ODI 11665759 at NHTSA ↗

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 21 reports

2022: 1 complaints · 2023: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022011
2023000
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
2022100
2023000

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentSteeringAir BagsElectrical SystemSteering:Electric Power Assist SystemSteering:ColumnExterior LightingElectronic Stability Control (Esc)Visibility/Wiper
Steering—
1
ODI 10426364 · 91,500 mi

WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK TODAY MY CAR EXPERIENCED A POWER STEERING ISSUE WHERE THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD "FREEZE" OR "STICK" IN ONE PLACE. I HAD TO EXERT A LOT OF FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET THE STEERING WHEEL TO MOVE BUT WHEN IT "BROKE FREE" IT TURNED A LOT WITH THE HELP OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP BECAUSE I WAS PUTTING SO MUCH FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET IT TO MOVE. I HAD A HARD TIME KEEPING THE CAR IN MY LANE. THE POWER STEERING WAS DOING THIS THE ENTIRE DRIVE HOME OF 20 MILES. THE CAR WAS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THIS ISSUE NEEDS TO …

Look up ODI 10426364 at NHTSA ↗

6
ODI 10341411 · 22,968 mi

2004 BMX Z4, STEERING BECAME UNRESPONSIVE WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. OVER CORRECTION TO REGAIN CONTROL NARROWLY AVOIDING TRAFFIC AND CENTER DIVIDER. AT SLOWER SPEEDS IT FELT LIKE THERE WAS NO STEERING FLUID IN CAR. VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. BMW DEALER HAD REPLACEMENT STEERING COLUMN IN STOCK IT TOOK 2 DAYS TO REPLACE AT A COST OF $2942.02. *TR

Look up ODI 10341411 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10443737 · 32,000 mi

THE STEERING BINDS AT ALMOST ANY SPEED. I NOTICED IT WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT FORWARD. WHEN A CORRECTION IN DIRECTION IS MADE THE WHEEL BINDS UNTIL GREATER PRESSURE IS APPLIED. IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM IS REQUIRING EVEN MORE PRESSURE FOR THE CORRECTION. I CALLED BMWNA AND THEY TOLD ME THEY HAVE HEARD NOTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I AM IN FEAR FOR MY SAFETY AS WELL AS OTHERS AROUND BMW'S Z-4 2004. *TR

Look up ODI 10443737 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10485811 · 78,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING LIGHT COMES ON AND THE STEERING LOCKS IN PLACE. WHEN U TRY TO FORCE IT THE CAR STALLS OUT AND THE STEERING STAYS LOCKED .. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS!!! *TR

Look up ODI 10485811 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 10486702 · 76,000 mi

THE STEERING WHEEL GETS STUCK WHILE DRIVING AND CAR DOESN'T STAY IN LANE INFACT NEEDS CONSTANT SIGNIFICANT ADJUSTMENTS TO KEEP IT FROM ACCIDENTALLY GETTING INTO ANOTHER LANE. THE ISSUE HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES AND WAS AN INCONVENIENCE SO I DIDN'T PAY A LOT OF ATTENTION BUT IT'S MORE LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE NOW WITH CONTROLLING THE CAR BECOMING MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT ON FREEWAYS. NHTSA HAS IDENTIFIED THIS ISSUE PE10020 AS NOT SIGNIFICANT AND I SINCERELY HOPE THEY INVESTIGATE IT FURTHER AND TAKE SOME SERIOUS ACTION BEFORE IT CAUSES IRREPARABLE L…

Look up ODI 10486702 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 10413673 · 11,000 mi

NORMAL DRIVNG. CLUNKING SOUND IN 2004 BMW Z4 STEERING COLUMN. 11500 MILES. NOTHING DONE TO DATE. *KB

Look up ODI 10413673 at NHTSA ↗

0
3
ODI 10478149 · 39,000 mi

I HAVE A 2004 Z4 THAT I PURCHASED LAST AUGUST USED. I RARELY DROVE THE CAR AND KEPT IT MAINLY FOR LEISURE UNTIL THIS PAST JULY. THIS JULY, ON THE DRIVE FROM WARNER ROBINS, GA TO HILTON HEAD, SC, I NOTICED THE STEERING WOULD STICK AND I HAD TO USE FORCE TO GET IT BACK ALIGNED WITH THE ROAD. SINCE THAT TIME EACH DAY WHEN I LEAVE WORK AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN PARKED ALL DAY IN THE HEAT IT DOES THE SAME THING. ITS ALMOST AS IF THE CAR IS TRACKING. NORMALLY MY SPEED DOES NOT EXCEED 40 MPH. I HAVE HAD THE TIRES CHECKED, THEY ARE NEW RUN FLAT TI…

Look up ODI 10478149 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10508059 · 49,500 mi

LOSS OF ELECTRICAL ASSISTED STEERING/STEERING WHEEL VERY SLUGGISH. *TR

Look up ODI 10508059 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11253350 · 100,200 mi

THIS IS A REOCCURRING PROBLEM WHICH I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THROUGH BOTH LOCAL MECHANICS AND BMW WITH NO RESULTS. ESSENTIALLY, WHILE MOVING AT SLOW SPEEDS OR STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM "SHUDDERS", ALL INSTRUMENT LIGHTS ILLUMINATE, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTS TO NEUTRAL, AND THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN THEN RESTARTS. THE FAILURE OCCURS ON AN IRREGULAR BASIS, AFFECTING PRIMARILY THE EPS LIGHT, BUT MAY ALSO AFFECT ALL LIGHTS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. LIKEWISE, IT MAY OR MAY NOT MOVE MY TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL AND IF THAT HAPPENS, MAY OR…

Look up ODI 11253350 at NHTSA ↗

0
Air Bags
1
ODI 10426364 · 91,500 mi

WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK TODAY MY CAR EXPERIENCED A POWER STEERING ISSUE WHERE THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD "FREEZE" OR "STICK" IN ONE PLACE. I HAD TO EXERT A LOT OF FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET THE STEERING WHEEL TO MOVE BUT WHEN IT "BROKE FREE" IT TURNED A LOT WITH THE HELP OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP BECAUSE I WAS PUTTING SO MUCH FORCE ON THE WHEEL TO GET IT TO MOVE. I HAD A HARD TIME KEEPING THE CAR IN MY LANE. THE POWER STEERING WAS DOING THIS THE ENTIRE DRIVE HOME OF 20 MILES. THE CAR WAS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THIS ISSUE NEEDS TO …

Look up ODI 10426364 at NHTSA ↗

—000
1
ODI 10575069 · 47,000 mi

PASSENGER'S AIRBAG INDICATION LIGHT IS MALFUNCTIONED. THE INDICATION LIGHT OF PASSENGER'S AIRBAG SHOWS ALWAYS OFF. THEREFORE IT CAN'T TELL THE AIRBAG IS ON OR OFF. *TR

Look up ODI 10575069 at NHTSA ↗

00
Electrical System
6
ODI 10341411 · 22,968 mi

2004 BMX Z4, STEERING BECAME UNRESPONSIVE WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. OVER CORRECTION TO REGAIN CONTROL NARROWLY AVOIDING TRAFFIC AND CENTER DIVIDER. AT SLOWER SPEEDS IT FELT LIKE THERE WAS NO STEERING FLUID IN CAR. VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. BMW DEALER HAD REPLACEMENT STEERING COLUMN IN STOCK IT TOOK 2 DAYS TO REPLACE AT A COST OF $2942.02. *TR

Look up ODI 10341411 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10443737 · 32,000 mi

THE STEERING BINDS AT ALMOST ANY SPEED. I NOTICED IT WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT FORWARD. WHEN A CORRECTION IN DIRECTION IS MADE THE WHEEL BINDS UNTIL GREATER PRESSURE IS APPLIED. IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM IS REQUIRING EVEN MORE PRESSURE FOR THE CORRECTION. I CALLED BMWNA AND THEY TOLD ME THEY HAVE HEARD NOTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I AM IN FEAR FOR MY SAFETY AS WELL AS OTHERS AROUND BMW'S Z-4 2004. *TR

Look up ODI 10443737 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10485811 · 78,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING LIGHT COMES ON AND THE STEERING LOCKS IN PLACE. WHEN U TRY TO FORCE IT THE CAR STALLS OUT AND THE STEERING STAYS LOCKED .. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS!!! *TR

Look up ODI 10485811 at NHTSA ↗

0—00
4
ODI 10743567 · 56,000 mi

I LEFT MY BMW IN THE SUN ALL DAY AND NOW MY LOCKS WONT WORK. MANY RESOURCES LINK THIS PROBLEM TO THE GM5 WHICH CONTROLS THE LIGHTING AND LOCKS. BAD LOCKS CAN BE A SAFETY AND SECURITY ISSUE ON PARKED CARS BUT ALSO FOR MOVING CARS AS CHILDREN MAY OPEN VEHICLE DOORS IN TRAFFIC.

Look up ODI 10743567 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11323610 · 64,043 mi

I HAD THIS CAR BUILT AND I AM THE ONLY OWNER AND DRIVER. I HAVE HAD A PERSONAL MECHANIC TAKE METICULOUS CARE OF IT OVER THE YEARS AND THE CAR IS STORED FOR APPROXIMATELY 6 MONTHS/YEAR BECAUSE I DO NOT DRIVE IT IN THE SNOW, AND FRANKLY, HARDLY DRIVE IT EVEN WHEN RAINING. HOWEVER, IT NEVER FAILS THAT EACH YEAR SOME WARNING LIGHT GOES ON FOR NO APPARENT REASON. LAST FALL IT WAS THE ABS LIGHT AND THE BRAKE LIGHT. MY MECHANIC PUT THE CAR ON THE COMPUTER, AND FOUND NO ISSUES. NOW AGAIN, THIS SPRING IT STARTED OUT AS NOT BEING ON, BUT WITHIN 5- 25 …

Look up ODI 11323610 at NHTSA ↗

0
2
ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11341390 · 145,000 mi

REOCCURING ISSUE: -DOOR LOCKS NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR CENTRAL BUTTON -WIPERS NOT FUNCTIONING -TRUNK RELEASE NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR BUTTON -WINDOWS NOT FUNCTIONING -LIGHTING OF INTERIOR NOT WORKING, TO INCLUDE GAUGE CLUSTER -TOP NOT FUNCTIONING ISSUES INTENSIFY ON DAYS OF LOW/HIGHER TEMPERATURES. SEEMS TO RESET BY DISCONNECTING BATTERY AND RECONNECTING AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES. ISSUES POINTS TO GM5 MODULE BEING FAULTY/FAILING THIS IS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL YOU START THE CAR, SEEMS TO BE A RANDOM OCCURRENCE, BUT HAPPENS AT LE…

Look up ODI 11341390 at NHTSA ↗

Steering:Electric Power Assist System
1
ODI 10486702 · 76,000 mi

THE STEERING WHEEL GETS STUCK WHILE DRIVING AND CAR DOESN'T STAY IN LANE INFACT NEEDS CONSTANT SIGNIFICANT ADJUSTMENTS TO KEEP IT FROM ACCIDENTALLY GETTING INTO ANOTHER LANE. THE ISSUE HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES AND WAS AN INCONVENIENCE SO I DIDN'T PAY A LOT OF ATTENTION BUT IT'S MORE LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE NOW WITH CONTROLLING THE CAR BECOMING MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT ON FREEWAYS. NHTSA HAS IDENTIFIED THIS ISSUE PE10020 AS NOT SIGNIFICANT AND I SINCERELY HOPE THEY INVESTIGATE IT FURTHER AND TAKE SOME SERIOUS ACTION BEFORE IT CAUSES IRREPARABLE L…

Look up ODI 10486702 at NHTSA ↗

00—0000
Steering:Column
1
ODI 10413673 · 11,000 mi

NORMAL DRIVNG. CLUNKING SOUND IN 2004 BMW Z4 STEERING COLUMN. 11500 MILES. NOTHING DONE TO DATE. *KB

Look up ODI 10413673 at NHTSA ↗

000—000
Exterior Lighting0
1
ODI 10575069 · 47,000 mi

PASSENGER'S AIRBAG INDICATION LIGHT IS MALFUNCTIONED. THE INDICATION LIGHT OF PASSENGER'S AIRBAG SHOWS ALWAYS OFF. THEREFORE IT CAN'T TELL THE AIRBAG IS ON OR OFF. *TR

Look up ODI 10575069 at NHTSA ↗

4
ODI 10743567 · 56,000 mi

I LEFT MY BMW IN THE SUN ALL DAY AND NOW MY LOCKS WONT WORK. MANY RESOURCES LINK THIS PROBLEM TO THE GM5 WHICH CONTROLS THE LIGHTING AND LOCKS. BAD LOCKS CAN BE A SAFETY AND SECURITY ISSUE ON PARKED CARS BUT ALSO FOR MOVING CARS AS CHILDREN MAY OPEN VEHICLE DOORS IN TRAFFIC.

Look up ODI 10743567 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11323610 · 64,043 mi

I HAD THIS CAR BUILT AND I AM THE ONLY OWNER AND DRIVER. I HAVE HAD A PERSONAL MECHANIC TAKE METICULOUS CARE OF IT OVER THE YEARS AND THE CAR IS STORED FOR APPROXIMATELY 6 MONTHS/YEAR BECAUSE I DO NOT DRIVE IT IN THE SNOW, AND FRANKLY, HARDLY DRIVE IT EVEN WHEN RAINING. HOWEVER, IT NEVER FAILS THAT EACH YEAR SOME WARNING LIGHT GOES ON FOR NO APPARENT REASON. LAST FALL IT WAS THE ABS LIGHT AND THE BRAKE LIGHT. MY MECHANIC PUT THE CAR ON THE COMPUTER, AND FOUND NO ISSUES. NOW AGAIN, THIS SPRING IT STARTED OUT AS NOT BEING ON, BUT WITHIN 5- 25 …

Look up ODI 11323610 at NHTSA ↗

00—0
2
ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11341390 · 145,000 mi

REOCCURING ISSUE: -DOOR LOCKS NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR CENTRAL BUTTON -WIPERS NOT FUNCTIONING -TRUNK RELEASE NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR BUTTON -WINDOWS NOT FUNCTIONING -LIGHTING OF INTERIOR NOT WORKING, TO INCLUDE GAUGE CLUSTER -TOP NOT FUNCTIONING ISSUES INTENSIFY ON DAYS OF LOW/HIGHER TEMPERATURES. SEEMS TO RESET BY DISCONNECTING BATTERY AND RECONNECTING AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES. ISSUES POINTS TO GM5 MODULE BEING FAULTY/FAILING THIS IS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL YOU START THE CAR, SEEMS TO BE A RANDOM OCCURRENCE, BUT HAPPENS AT LE…

Look up ODI 11341390 at NHTSA ↗

Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
3
ODI 10478149 · 39,000 mi

I HAVE A 2004 Z4 THAT I PURCHASED LAST AUGUST USED. I RARELY DROVE THE CAR AND KEPT IT MAINLY FOR LEISURE UNTIL THIS PAST JULY. THIS JULY, ON THE DRIVE FROM WARNER ROBINS, GA TO HILTON HEAD, SC, I NOTICED THE STEERING WOULD STICK AND I HAD TO USE FORCE TO GET IT BACK ALIGNED WITH THE ROAD. SINCE THAT TIME EACH DAY WHEN I LEAVE WORK AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN PARKED ALL DAY IN THE HEAT IT DOES THE SAME THING. ITS ALMOST AS IF THE CAR IS TRACKING. NORMALLY MY SPEED DOES NOT EXCEED 40 MPH. I HAVE HAD THE TIRES CHECKED, THEY ARE NEW RUN FLAT TI…

Look up ODI 10478149 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10508059 · 49,500 mi

LOSS OF ELECTRICAL ASSISTED STEERING/STEERING WHEEL VERY SLUGGISH. *TR

Look up ODI 10508059 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11253350 · 100,200 mi

THIS IS A REOCCURRING PROBLEM WHICH I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO ADDRESS THROUGH BOTH LOCAL MECHANICS AND BMW WITH NO RESULTS. ESSENTIALLY, WHILE MOVING AT SLOW SPEEDS OR STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM "SHUDDERS", ALL INSTRUMENT LIGHTS ILLUMINATE, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTS TO NEUTRAL, AND THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN THEN RESTARTS. THE FAILURE OCCURS ON AN IRREGULAR BASIS, AFFECTING PRIMARILY THE EPS LIGHT, BUT MAY ALSO AFFECT ALL LIGHTS IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. LIKEWISE, IT MAY OR MAY NOT MOVE MY TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL AND IF THAT HAPPENS, MAY OR…

Look up ODI 11253350 at NHTSA ↗

00000—0
Visibility/Wiper00
2
ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11341390 · 145,000 mi

REOCCURING ISSUE: -DOOR LOCKS NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR CENTRAL BUTTON -WIPERS NOT FUNCTIONING -TRUNK RELEASE NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR BUTTON -WINDOWS NOT FUNCTIONING -LIGHTING OF INTERIOR NOT WORKING, TO INCLUDE GAUGE CLUSTER -TOP NOT FUNCTIONING ISSUES INTENSIFY ON DAYS OF LOW/HIGHER TEMPERATURES. SEEMS TO RESET BY DISCONNECTING BATTERY AND RECONNECTING AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES. ISSUES POINTS TO GM5 MODULE BEING FAULTY/FAILING THIS IS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL YOU START THE CAR, SEEMS TO BE A RANDOM OCCURRENCE, BUT HAPPENS AT LE…

Look up ODI 11341390 at NHTSA ↗

00
2
ODI 11195746 · 135,850 mi

GM5 MODULE FAIL. WHEN THE GM5 MODULE FAULS WINDSHIELD WIPERS WON'T WORK (THIS COULD BE A BIG PROBLEM IF IT RAINS!), INTERIOR LIGHTS WON'T WORK, WINDOWS WON'T GO UP OR DOWN, NO ALARM FUNCTIONS AND OF COURSE NO AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK CONTROL (DOORS CAN MANUALLY BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED AS LONG AS THE DOUBLE LOCK IS OPEN.)

Look up ODI 11195746 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11341390 · 145,000 mi

REOCCURING ISSUE: -DOOR LOCKS NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR CENTRAL BUTTON -WIPERS NOT FUNCTIONING -TRUNK RELEASE NOT FUNCTIONING BY REMOTE OR BUTTON -WINDOWS NOT FUNCTIONING -LIGHTING OF INTERIOR NOT WORKING, TO INCLUDE GAUGE CLUSTER -TOP NOT FUNCTIONING ISSUES INTENSIFY ON DAYS OF LOW/HIGHER TEMPERATURES. SEEMS TO RESET BY DISCONNECTING BATTERY AND RECONNECTING AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES. ISSUES POINTS TO GM5 MODULE BEING FAULTY/FAILING THIS IS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL YOU START THE CAR, SEEMS TO BE A RANDOM OCCURRENCE, BUT HAPPENS AT LE…

Look up ODI 11341390 at NHTSA ↗

0—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

4 patterns with matching reports.

Steering assistance concerns

65 mentions · 15.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 56,125 mi (60 usable records).

ODI 10204202 · 17,400 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED WITHOUT WARNING. THE STEERING BECAME UNLOCKED AFTER THE STEERING WHEEL WAS PULLED, HOWEVER, IT CAUSED THE CONTACT TO OVER STEER. THE WEATHER WAS 90 DEGREES AT THE TIME OF FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE OR REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 17,400.

Look up ODI 10204202 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10225368 · 40 mi

THE STEERING LOCKS UP IN HOT WEATHER FORCING ME TO OVER COMPENSATE WHEN DRIVING. ONCE THE CAR COOLS DOWN STEERING FEEDBACK RETURNS TO NORMAL. *TR

Look up ODI 10225368 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10250724 · 21,000 mi

2004 BMW Z-4 , STEERING PROBLEM. FEELS LIKE STEERING LOCKS UP OR BINDS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. FORCE MUST BE APPLIED TO OVERCOME LOCK-UP. IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE CAR SMOOTHLY, CHANGE LANES, PASS OTHER CARS. I PURCHASED THE CAR USED WITH ONLY 21,000 MILES, BUT WARRANTY WAS UP IN 6/2008, PURCHASED IN 8/2008. TOM BUSH BMW OF JACKSONVILLE SAYS CAR NEEDS A STEERING COLUMN ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT AT A COST OF $2575.08 COST TO ME. I FEEL PROBLEM HAS BEEN ON THE CAR SINCE PURCHASED NEW. CAR CAME FROM OFF LEASE IN OHIO AND DRIVEN ONLY LIMITED AMOUNT. STEERING LOCK…

Look up ODI 10250724 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Hard or delayed shifting

42 mentions · 10.2% of complaints

Median mileage: 50,000 mi (38 usable records).

ODI 10143324 · 13,000 mi

IN HOT WEATHER OR AFTER VEHICLE HAS BEEN LEFT IN SUN FOR A FEW HOURS STEERING BECOMES STICKY AND JERKY. MUST APPLY EXCESSIVE FORCE AND CONSTANTLY OVERCORRECT TO KEEP CAR ON COURSE. EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO ENTER AND EXIT SLIGHT TURNS, CHANGE LANES, ETC. *JB

Look up ODI 10143324 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10236194 · 16,000 mi

I BOUGHT A BMW Z4 USED IN AUGUST 2007 WITH NO NOTICEABLE PROBLEMS. THIS YEAR (2008), THERE HAVE BEEN A FEW HEAT WAVES IN JUNE AND JULY IN NY AND I NOTICED THAT IF THE CAR SITS OUT IN THE SUN FOR A FEW HOURS, THE STEERING BECOMES STICKY, JERKY AND HARD TO CONTROL. AFTER BEING IN THE SHADE TO COOL DOWN THE STEER BECOMES SMOOTH, CONTROLLED AND NORMAL. I'VE STARTED RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE AND HAVE FOUND MANY ONLINE FORUMS WITH OWNER COMMENTS COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM. THERE APPEARS TO BE A FIX FROM BMW BUT MY CAR IS NOW OFF WARRANTY AND WIL…

Look up ODI 10236194 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10241880 · 43,000 mi

WHEN AMBIENT TEMPERATURES ARE HIGH (E.G. >85-90F) (COMPOUNDED BY CAR BEING IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT), THE STEERING BECOMES DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. SPECIFICALLY, NORMAL STEERING WHEEL INPUT TRANSLATES INTO ERRATIC, JERKY MOVEMENTS ON THE ROAD. THE STEERING WHEEL WILL NOT RETURN TO CENTER AND THE CAR GENERALLY IS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL (I.E. MAINTAIN A STRAIGHT COURSE, REQUIRING CONSTANT AND EXAGGERATED STEERING WHEEL INPUT). THIS CONDITION IS TRANSIENT (I.E. STEERING RETURNS TO NORMAL WHEN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE DROPS); HOWEVER, DRIVING WHEN THE STEER…

Look up ODI 10241880 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

8 mentions · 1.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 64,043 mi (7 usable records).

ODI 10295924 · 82,745 mi

STEERING FEELS "STICKY" SIMILAR TO OTHER REPORTS FILED, PREVIOUS ODI CASE NUMBER 10288772 REPORTED 06/30/09. ON 11 NOVEMBER 09 MILEAGE 82,745, ELECTRICAL POWER STEERING (EPS) FAILED COMPLETELY, WARNING LIGHT ON DASH, CAR STILL DRIVABLE WITHOUT POWER STEERING FOR LIMITED DISTANCE TO DEALER. CAUSE FOUND TO BE CODE 611C3 FAILED EPS UNIT. REPAIR WAS STEERING COLUMN REPLACEMENT & REPROGRAMMING IAW SIB32-06-05. ALL PREVIOUS PROBLEMS ARE GONE, CAR STEERS LIKE BRAND NEW, DIDN'T KNOW WHAT I'D BEEN MISSING. REPAIR COST WAS $50 DEDUCTIBLE UNDER EXTENDE…

Look up ODI 10295924 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10303810 · 41,400 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS. THE "AIR BAG" WARNING WARNING LIGHT INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE PASSENGER SEAT AND AIR BAG SENSOR REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 08V384000 (AIR BAGS:FRONTAL). HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL …

Look up ODI 10303810 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10362367 · 62,391 mi

WHEN CAR SITS OUT IN THE HOT SUN 100 DEGREES OR BETTER FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, IS DIFFICULT. STEERING WHEEL STAYS IN A TUNING POSITION AND DOES NOT RETURN TO CENTER, IT STICKS IN WHATEVER TURN YOU PUT IT IN. YOU MUST MANUALLY FORCE THE STEERING WHEEL BACK TO CENTER. JUST TODAY 10/26/2010 ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON AND POWER STEERING COMPLETELY FAILED WHILE DRIVING AND THE CAR WOULD NOT CHANGE GEARS. *TR

Look up ODI 10362367 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Stalling or loss of power

5 mentions · 1.2% of complaints

Median mileage: 43,000 mi (4 usable records).

ODI 10355001 · 44,000 mi

2004 BMW Z4 WITH LOSS OF POWER ASSISTED STEERING. DEALER MADE FRONT END ALIGNMENT AND FRONT TIRES WERE REPLACED. OLD PARTS TO FRONT END WERE NOT GIVEN BACK. *TR

Look up ODI 10355001 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10453211

THE Z4 HAS AN POWER STEERING PROBLEM THAT SEEMS TO HAVE ISSUES AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND TEMPERATURES WHERE THERE SEEMS TO BE A LOSS OF POWER STEERING WHERE THERE IS A SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL. I FEEL EXTREMELY UNSAFE DRIVING THE CAR AND DON'T FEEL LIKE I HAVE CONTROL OF THE STEERING AND HAVE A LOT OF TROUBLE KEEPING THE CAR IN THE LANE. SOMETIMES THE STEERING FEELS LIKE IT IS STUCK. I THINK THAT THE CAR IS VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AND I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR SINCE I AM A WOMAN AND MAY NOT HAVE THE PROPER …

Look up ODI 10453211 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10485811 · 78,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING LIGHT COMES ON AND THE STEERING LOCKS IN PLACE. WHEN U TRY TO FORCE IT THE CAR STALLS OUT AND THE STEERING STAYS LOCKED .. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS!!! *TR

Look up ODI 10485811 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b