BMW Z4 G29
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The BMW Z4 G29 is available with 4 engine variants — from 136 to 387 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The BMW 20i (Benziner, 156–163 PS) has the B48B20 (2.0L Turbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The BMW M40i (Benziner, 374–387 PS) comes with 2 different engines: B58B30 (2019–2026, Be Careful) und B58B30 (2019–2026, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the M40i!
The BMW sDrive20i (Benziner, 197 PS) has the B48B20 (2.0L Turbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The BMW sDrive30i (Benziner, 258 PS) has the B48B20 (2.0L Turbo) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Top: Noise and Creaking from Hood Band The G29 Z4's soft top tends to creak and twist, especially at high speeds and in varying weather conditions. The hood retaining band is a known sub-optimal solution — BMW has not provided a complete fix. Symptoms: Creaking and squeaking from the roof while driving, especially in cold conditions or wind, plastic-like squealing | Low | |
| Body Panel Gaps: Front Bumper and Bonnet Early G29 models show noticeable quality issues with panel gaps on the front bumper and bonnet. The panels are not flush — a typical early production issue that was corrected during the production run. Symptoms: Visibly uneven gaps between bumper and wings, bonnet does not sit flush | Low |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
Mercedes-Benz SL R232
Cabrio/Roadster (2021–2025)
Porsche 718 Boxster 982
Cabrio/Roadster (2016–2025)
Mazda MX-5 ND
Cabrio/Roadster (2015–2026)
MINI MINI F57
Cabrio/Roadster (2015–2023)
MINI MINI Cabriolet F57
Cabrio/Roadster (2015–2023)
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 26 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW Z4 G29 (2019–2026) — 18 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Electronics, Other, Suspension.
Z4 (B48B20, 2018–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain guide rail breaks, Oil filter housing leaking — coolant loss, Coolant bleed line at cylinder head breaks. Power: 156–163 PS.
Z4 (B48B20, 2019–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain guide rail breaks, Oil filter housing leaking — coolant loss, Coolant bleed line at cylinder head breaks. Power: 197 PS.
Z4 (B48B20, 2019–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain guide rail breaks, Oil filter housing leaking — coolant loss, Coolant bleed line at cylinder head breaks. Power: 258 PS.
Z4 (B58B30, 2019–2026) — Be Careful: Oil filter disintegrates — engine damage risk, Plastic oil filter housing cracks — coolant/oil mixing, PCV valve / valve cover membrane failed. Power: 374 PS.
Z4 (B58B30, 2019–2026) — Be Careful: Oil filter disintegrates — engine damage risk, Plastic oil filter housing cracks — coolant/oil mixing, PCV valve / valve cover membrane failed. Power: 387 PS.
What to watch out for with the BMW Z4? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the BMW Z4 G29 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used BMW Z4 G29? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which BMW Z4 G29 engine is the most fun? +
Is the BMW Z4 G29 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW Z4 G29? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee