BMW Z4 (E85)
BMW · Z4 · E85
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Reliability snapshot
The first Z4 (E85 roadster, E86 coupe) is a rear-drive sports car with M54 and later N52 six-cylinder engines. Common items are the plastic cooling system, VANOS on the six-cylinders, and the electric power-steering system, which can develop faults. The M variant uses the S54. It is a durable, engaging roadster when cooling and the power-steering system are maintained.
Top problems on the E85
Most expensive and most frequently reported issues — ordered by repair cost
- Caution — monitor closelyAgeing plastic cooling components
- Caution — monitor closelyElectric power-steering faults
Engines and trims
E85 production variants
M54 2.2–3.0 inline-6
2.2–3.0L I6
NA inline-six, single VANOS.
2.5–3.0L petrol (N52)
2.2–3.0L petrol (M54)
N52 2.5–3.0 inline-6
2.5–3.0L I6
NA inline-six; electric water pump.
1.8–2.0L petrol (N46)
Maintenance overview
Key service intervals (varies by engine and driving conditions)
| Service item | Interval | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil and filter Per BMW's Condition Based Service schedule | 12,000–15,000 km | |
| Cooling-system refresh Preventive — or sooner by vehicle age | 120,000–150,000 km |