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BMW · Convertible / Roadster · 2006–2008

BMW Z4 M E85

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The BMW Z4 M E85 is available with one engine variant at 321 hp.

3.2L 6-Zyl · Benziner· 343 PS
2006 2008
Stay Away! 9 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The BMW 3.2L 6-Zyl (Benziner, 343 PS) has the S54B32 (3.2L 6-Zyl) — rated: "Stay Away!", 9 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
●High Brake Wear Due to S54 Character

Due to the sporty character of the Z4 M and the high-revving S54 engine, brake pads and discs wear above-average quickly. Rear tyres can be at the wear limit after just 25,000 km.

Symptoms: Brake pads worn quickly, disc scoring, brake dust on wheels, outer rear tyre wear
from 20,000 km
Ad BMW Z4 M E85 brake discBMW Z4 M brake padBMW S54 Bremse
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 15 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW Z4 M E85 (2006–2008) — 9 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: S54B32 (3.2L 6-Zyl). Typical issues affect Brakes, Rust, Other, Gearbox.

Z4 M (S54B32, 2006–2008) — Stay Away!: Connecting rod bearings: known S54 main issue, Oil pump pressure relief piston wears — oil pressure critical, Valve clearance service neglected — shim disc problem. Power: 343 PS.

What to watch out for with the BMW Z4 M? 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 M E85 have? +
The BMW Z4 M E85 has 9 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used BMW Z4 M E85? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the S54B32 (3.2L 6-Zyl). Problem engine: S54B32 (3.2L 6-Zyl) — stay away!
Which BMW Z4 M E85 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the BMW Z4 M E85 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The Z4 M Roadster puts the S54 in a longer wheelbase than the Z3 M — more predictable, but no less exciting. Without ESP the Z4 M demands full respect in the wet: 343 hp to the rear axle, no electronic safety net, plus steering that transmits every surface imperfection. In the dry, one of the finest manual driving experiences BMW ever created. Sounds even better open — the ITB intake mixes with the exhaust into a soundscape that raises goosebumps at 7,000 rpm.
Is the BMW Z4 M E85 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the BMW Z4 M E85 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW Z4 M E85? +
The BMW Z4 M E85 is available with engine variants from 321 to 343 hp. Petrol: S54B32 (3.2L 6-Zyl).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee