Table 1 shows two common visibility related problems of the 1998 BMW Z3.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Side/rear Glass problems | |
| Rearview Mirror problems |
The plastic rear window in the convertible top has a design flaw. When the convertible top is lowered and then raised again (the intended normal operation of the convertible top), it causes severe creasing of the rear window. This results in the rear view out the window being significantly distorted and impaired, which I think is a safety hazard. I have contacted both the dealer and BMW about this. They have told me that "they all do this" and that there is nothing they can do about it. There is nothing the owner can do to remove the creases. The only response the dealer has pffered is to heat-treat the window and melt away the creases. However, the next time the top is lowered and then raised again, the window has the same deep creases. This concerns me, because the distorted rear view is distracting and a safety hazard because one cannot see clearly to the rear of the car.
Rearview mirror creates huge blind spot and is a potential hazard.