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Question

I am considering purchase of an ''02 Z3 Roadster, as I''ve always prefered the Z3 styling to that of the Z4 & the ''02 is the last year of production on the older model. The possibility of getting an older car makes me wonder about the cost of potential maintenance and repairs. What repairs are more likely on a 50-60 K mi Z3, & can you est. a range of likely costs. I would be interested in maintaining it in top condition.

Submitted: 561 days and 15 hours ago.
Category: BMW
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Optional Information:
2002 BMW Z3

Posted by Doctor D 561 days and 15 hours ago.

Answer

Hi,
That is a great BMW you are looking to buy. Like any car line maintenance is the most important factor to lower cost of ownership. BMW performs inspection 1 & 2 services. You would be needing the "2" inspection @60 k miles. This inspection varies in cost of $350-$700 according to your shop. BMW dealer will be the most expensive. I suggest you find a good BMW specialty shop in your area and they will take great care of you for allot less money. Inspection 2 entails all the services below, sorry its a long list.
Undercarriage
  1. Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
  2. Check transmission for leaks.
  3. Check rear axle for leaks.
  4. Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
  5. Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
  6. Check power steering system for leaks.
  7. Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
  8. Examine brake disc surfaces.
  9. Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
  10. Grease wheel center hubs.
  11. Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
  12. Check front control arm bushing for wear.
  13. Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
  14. Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
  15. Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
  16. Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
  17. Check thickness of parking brake linings.
  18. Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
  19. Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

     

Engine Compartment
  1. Read out diagnostic system
  2. Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
  3. Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
  4. Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
  5. Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
  6. Check air conditioner for operation.
  7. Reset Service Indicator.
  8. Replace spark plugs.
  9. Replace intake air cleaner element.

 

Body/Electrical Equipment
  1. Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
  2. Perform batter load test.
  3. Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
  4. Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
  5. Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
  6. Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
  7. Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
  8. Check condition and function of safety belts.
  9. Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
  10. Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
  11. Check central locking/double lock.
  12. Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
  13. Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
  14. Check rear view mirrors
  15. Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

 

Final Inspection
  1. Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

Oil Change Service

1. Drain and refill your vehicle's crankcase with BMW approved oil. Install a new genuine BMW oil filter

2. Check all other Fluid levels, and top off as necessary.

3. Check and adjust tire pressure.

4. Fill windshield washer fluid.

5. Reset oil light

But rest assured these are great cars and you will easily get 200,000 trouble free mileage out of the Z3 if properly maintained.

561 days and 14 hours ago.

Reply

Useful information on the first maintinance. I am more concerned with expected or possible repairs on this car as I drive it for the next 50 - 75 K mi. (e.g. brakes, clutch, suspension, cooling, minor engine or trans).

Accepted Answer

Hi,
Pretty much the same as the cars you are used to. I have found that parts are very reasonable on BMW's. Of coarse there are certain expensive parts but thats true for any car line. The cooling system you will want to flush every 2 years. The clutch should last the life of the car. Tune-up is straight forward, although the plugs are a bit expensive - about $20 each but thats getting more normal with late model engines. Transmission fluid should be changed at 100k miles, manual or auto. No real horror stories on these cars, if well taken care of you won't have water pump, ect problems. Brakes are a bit more expensive and there are sensors on the pads. Suspensions are very good. I have many,many customers that love this car! Need more info? Just Ask.

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Expert: Doctor D
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 5/10/2008

BMW Mechanic

ASE Master, 20 Years Experience

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