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This file gathers the known defects of the BMW Z3, written and sourced by the community. Anyone can read; a free account lets you contribute. A defect earns the seal once enough reputable contributors have validated it.
67 owners in the United States reported problems with the airbags of this car to NHTSA (model years 1996–2002), typically at around 68,000 miles. Most often named: frontal (16%). Reported consequences: 13 crashes, 1 fire, 21 injuries.
20 owners in the United States reported problems with the electrical system of this car to NHTSA (model years 1996–2002), typically at around 57,000 miles. Most often named: wiring:interior/under dash (15%), ignition:switch (15%), wiring (15%). Reported consequences: 3 fires, 2 injuries.
13 owners in the United States reported problems with the engine and cooling of this car to NHTSA (model years 1996–2003), typically at around 81,000 miles. Most often named: engine (38%), engine:gasoline (23%). Reported consequences: 1 fire.
Vehicle description: Passenger vehicles. The rear axle differential may contain ring gear bolts that were incorrectly torqued during assembly. The bolt or bolts could loosen leading to noise from the differential.
Vehicle description: Passenger vehicles. The nut that secures the main positive cable to the positive battery terminal clamp was not tightened properly, allowing the cable to loosen over time. If this occurred, the cable could ultimately loosen to the point where electrical continuity could be interrupted.
On certain 318IC, 318IS, 318TI, 325I, 325IC, 325IS, 525I, 525IT, 530I, 530IT, 540I, 740I, 740IL, 840CI and M3, the cruise control and throttle cable are attached to the same throttle valve actuating lever at the throttle housing. It is possible that the plastic bushing on either cable could break causing the outer cable housing to separate from the bushing. Throttle pedal application without cruise control engagement could cause the outer tube to catch on the edge of the broken bushing resulting in the throttle valve remaining partially open. If this were to occur, the car might not decelerate as expected and a crash could occut. Correction: A spring clip will be installed on the outer tube of each cable to prevent dislodgment from the bushing.
Thermostat Return
"CPO (MINI NEXT) Inspection Guidelines: Engines Requiring a TSE PuMA Case. Vehicles with a questionable ""engine oil service"" maintenance history may require further consideration and TSE review prior to continuing with the CPO inspection process."
A small number of Rolls-Royce Ghost models may not have the correct torque applied to the Lambda sensors, also known as Control or Monitor sensors. To maintain our high levels of quality and customer satisfaction, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has decided to carry out a torque check to the front and rear Lambda sensors fitted on both engine banks. This procedure must be followed on the chassis numbers listed within ISPA or S-Gate.
Sources: NHTSA (United States, public domain), Transport Canada (Open Government Licence – Canada), DVSA (United Kingdom, Open Government Licence v3.0), RappelConso and EU Safety Gate (France, Licence Ouverte 2.0).