Table 1 shows three common service brakes related problems of the 2004 BMW Z4.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Brake Sensor problems | |
| Brake Light On problems | |
| Service Brakes problems |
Steering has a "notched" or "sticky" feel to it when traveling on highways at speeds around 50mph and higher. When the need to turn arises and the steering wheel "sticks" in the 'notch", it requires extra effort to get the wheel out of the notch, causing "over steer" with difficult recovery. I won't let my wife drive the z-4 as I feel this is a dangerous characteristic that could result in an accident. My dealer was notified of the situation but was "unable to duplicate" the fault; (prior to my warranty running out). On the following service, with my renewed complaint, the dealer was able to duplicate and identify the problem. My BMW warranty was expired, but I had purchased an "extended warranty", however the "steering" problem was not covered under the new warranty. The cost for repair was in excess of $3000. 00! I have parked the car except for local slow speed, cool day rides. I understand that the NHTSA has looked into the problem. I have not heard anything from my BMW dealer yet. ??? a computerized "brake sensor" light has been on for many years and has been unable to be remedied. The dealer checked the brakes and they are fine, just can't get the "sensor light" to stay out.
I had this car built and am the only owner. Initially, still under warranty, the car needed a new convertible top. After that, for years, I had a �sticking� when I would steer the car making the car very difficult to control or turn. This deterred me from driving the car as much as I wanted, and certainly from taking it on any distance trips. . . . Basically enjoying the car. Initially I thought the car may need new tires or an alignment, but it was diagnosed as the electronic steering column. From reading BMW chats and forums, I found this was a very common problem. I tried to contact BMW directly, but to no avail. I finally had to pay for the repairs myself, costing over $3000. The other problem that has continued is the abs brake light will illuminate for no apparent reason. I have had my mechanic look at it, but can't seem to find a definitive cause. Often when the car is turned off, and then restarted, the light goes off. . . But will sometimes, not all the time, come back on again, both at higher speeds and also during city, low speed driving. I baby this car so much, only drive it seasonally, and it seems to spend more time in the shop being repaired or maintained. I think it was a �lemon� from the onset. BMW was negligent in helping cover some expenses that many others have reported!.
I previously filed a report about the electronic steering wheel column, poor steering, sticking prior to having it fixed on this date. I had not found the paperwork for it until after I submitted the report. The tracking # 11300634.