IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 BMW Z4 (E89)

For 2011 the 23i and 30i were replaced by the turbocharged four-cylinder 20i and 28i, cutting CO2 and improving economy. The 35i and 35is kept the twin-turbo N54 six.

What changed for 2011

  • •sDrive20i (184PS) and sDrive28i (245PS) N20 turbo fours replace the 23i and 30i
  • •Eight-speed ZF automatic available on four-cylinder models
  • •35is with 340PS and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox
  • •Roof operation speed raised to 40km/h in 2012

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !N20 timing chain guide wear and oil starvation on early units
  • !Roof hydraulic pump overheating after repeated cycles
  • !Worn front tension strut bushes causing a knock over speed bumps
3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Cracked Alloy Wheels

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The combination of large 19-inch alloy wheels (especially Style 296 and Style 326M), stiff low-profile run-flat tyres, and rigid M Sport damping causes the inner rim barrel to crack under impact from potholes.

Est. Repair Cost: £100 (Weld) / £400 (New wheel)
Warning Signs:

Slow puncture warning requiring weekly tyre reinflation, Steering wheel or seat vibration at motorway speeds, Hairline cracks visible along the rear inner wheel rim barrel

What to Inspect:
  • Remove wheels or inspect inner barrels with a torch and mirror on a ramp
  • Check if tyres are original run-flats or conventional replacements
  • Verify prior weld repairs on inner rim edges
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

High Pressure Fuel Pump (35i)

SeriousFuel System

The direct-injection twin-turbo N54 engine in 35i and 35is models features a high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) that suffers internal mechanical seal and solenoid failure, causing long cranking times and limp-home mode under load.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Extended engine cranking time (5–10 seconds) on cold start, Engine malfunction half-power warning light illuminated, Hesitation, stutter, and limp mode during hard acceleration

What to Inspect:
  • Check cold engine start cranking duration
  • Review service receipts for updated Bosch/Continental HPFP part numbers
  • Scan DME for fuel rail pressure drop fault codes (2FBF, 29DC)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Folding Roof Relays/Pump

SeriousBodywork & Rust

The two-piece retractable electro-hydraulic hardtop relies on twin salmon-coloured relays located near the battery. Sticking relay contacts keep the hydraulic pump motor running continuously until it burns out or overheats.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Roof operation stalls halfway through opening or closing cycle, Hydraulic motor whines loudly or runs continuously without roof movement, Moisture, standing water, or hydraulic fluid pooling in lower boot battery tray

What to Inspect:
  • Cycle roof through 3 complete open and close cycles without hesitation
  • Check if salmon relays (part no. 12637591534) have been replaced every 3–4 years
  • Inspect boot floor under the battery tray for hydraulic oil leaks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2011 BMW Z4 (E89)

  • Cold-start the N20 and listen for a whine or rattle from the front timing cover
  • Check the roof has not been cycled repeatedly with the engine off, which drains the battery and heats the pump
  • Test drive over speed cushions and listen for a front-end knock
20102012
Check a 2011 BMW Z4 (E89) by Registration