IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2022 BMW Z4 (G29)

BMW introduced the LCI Z4 in September 2022 with the M Sport appearance package made standard across the range, along with revised trim, updated software and altered wheel and colour options. UK sales continued through to 2025, with the model now absent from BMW UK's new-car line-up.

What changed for 2022

  • •M Sport appearance equipment standard on every variant
  • •Revised interior trim, colours and wheel designs
  • •Updated infotainment software and assistance features

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Warning lights from assistance systems or sensors, which are test-relevant faults
  • !Roof and seal condition on cars stored outside through British winters
  • !Part-worn tyres and corrosion on brake discs from limited use
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Soft Top Wear Marks

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The compact multi-layer fabric soft top can rub against internal roof storage framework hinges when stowed behind the seats, causing shiny abrasion wear patches or premature fabric thinning on the outer canvas folds.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Shiny scuffed rub marks on both rear side quarters of fabric roof, Snagged threads or fabric fuzz along fold lines, Creaking or clicking noise as roof folds down

What to Inspect:
  • Lower the roof halfway into service position and inspect canvas around hinge pivot contact points
  • Check for dealer retrofitted protective felt strips in soft-top storage compartment
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

B58 Coolant Loss / PCV

ModerateEngine

The 3.0-litre turbocharged B58 straight-six engine in M40i models can experience slow coolant seepage from the water pump housing/cap or split the rubber crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve diaphragm integrated into the valve cover.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500
Warning Signs:

"Top up engine coolant" alert on digital cluster every few months, High-pitched whistling or chirping noise from engine at idle, White smoke from exhaust or sweet burnt-syrup odour after driving

What to Inspect:
  • Check both main and auxiliary coolant expansion tank levels and caps
  • Listen for whistling around the valve cover PCV round breather cap
  • Inspect lower engine undertray for dried blue/white coolant residue
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

iDrive Reboots

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7 can suffer from sudden operating system lockups, black display screen cutouts, or Bluetooth connectivity drops resolved through i-Step dealer or OTA software flashing.

Est. Repair Cost: £0
Warning Signs:

Central touchscreen or digital cockpit shuts down and restarts mid-journey, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto drops connection repeatedly, Navigation map freezes during route calculation

What to Inspect:
  • Verify current iDrive software version and check OTA update history menu
  • Test phone projection and radio audio during a 15-minute test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2022 BMW Z4 (G29)

  • Compare the updated car's equipment against a pre-LCI example before paying more
  • Inspect the roof fabric for chafing at the side channels, a common and expensive repair