Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2016 BMW Z4 peaked in 2016, with 1 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2016 BMW Z4
Roadster, gasoline, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Sep 22, 2016 to Feb 19, 2025.
Recall campaigns covering this model year1721k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints4Not enough peers on file
Severity index25.02016 roadsters average 14.3
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Components
25% of complaints about the 2016 BMW Z4 name electrical system
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
One recall campaign covers the 2016 BMW Z4
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24V-608 | Aug 13, 2024 | Improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump may be exposed to water and short circuit | Electrical system | 720,796 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2016 BMW Z4
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
4 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Feb 19, 2025Failure Oct 1, 2024New Port Richey, FLElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2016 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint 11643614 - Filed Aug 22, 2024Failure Aug 1, 2022Bonifay, FLUnknown or other
The air conditioning system has a very very foul musty smell when you first start the vehicle after sitting for a few hours. It will go away after a few minutes, but the dealer nor repair shops can fix the issue. System was cleaned, new micro air filter was installed, but still have the musty odor. Even the a/c drain was cleaned, all to no avail. This seems to be a class thing with all BMW vehicles according to the many BMW owners I have spoken with. But no one can fix the problem.
NHTSA complaint 11610174 - Filed Mar 13, 2020Failure Feb 28, 20208,000 milesHarker Hgts, TXVehicle speed controlCrash1 injured
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 BMW Z4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS STOPPED AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AN UNKNOWN NOISE WAS HEARD AS, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE IN FRONT CAUSING THAT VEHICLE TO CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE AHEAD OF IT. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONTAL AND KNEE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO BODY REPAIR FACILITY. THE CONTACT CALLED THE BMW OF TEMPLE DEALER (6006 S GENERAL BRUCE DR, TEMPLE, TX 76502) AND WAS TOLD TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AS THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING THE REPORT FROM THE EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED AS HE WANTED THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE TO BE DIAGNOSED BEFORE THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO HM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 8,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint 11317890 - Filed Sep 22, 2016Failure Sep 20, 2016200 milesPhoenix, AZSeat belts
ABOUT 20% OF TIME, DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT JAMS, WILL NOT RELEASE FROM RECESS/RETAINER BEHIND SEAT WITHOUT USING MY HAND FOR COUPLE MINUTES TO JIGGLE ENOUGH. NO PROBLEM ONCE I GET IT TO RELEASE. THEN FITS IN CONNECTOR AND ALSO RELEASES OK. TWO LOCAL DEALERS UNABLE TO FIX. ONE EVEN REPLACED ENTIRE MECHANISM, STILL JAMS. MANAGER SAID THIS MODEL SEEMS TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM. THIS OCCURS AT A STAND STILL, BEFORE PUTTING CAR IN GEAR, SOMETIMES WITH MOTOR ON, SOMETIME BEFORE I START THE ENGINE. SOMETIMES JUST OPENING THE DOOR CAUSES THE RELEASE. OTHER TIMES, I HAVE TO PUT MY HAND UNDER THE BELT AND MANEUVER THE BELT UNTIL IT RELATES FROM THE RETAINER INTO WHICH THE BELT RETRACTS. NO PICTURES INCLUDED. JUST A STANDARD SEAT BELT. HAD A BMW 3351 FOR 7 YEARS. NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM ONCE.
NHTSA complaint 10908777
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
62 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- B510819 Jan 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The basic conditions for initializing the power windows are not met. - B611305 Jan 11, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle âdisc… - B662719 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Lane Change Warning (LCW) yellow triangle symbol on either one, or both the exterior side view mirrors does not illuminate to alert the driver when it should. - B662419 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Vehicle cannot be opened or closed using comfort access, engine start is not possible, and the vehicle may not start when placing the key against the steering column. - TEC26 Apr 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TEC26 Turbo Charger Return - TEC25 Mar 21, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Tec25 Wishbone Return - TEC24 Apr 14, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Tech24 Snap-in Adapter Return - SIM110115 Mar 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI engine oil part number transition and model year 2016 engine oils - SIM010603 Mar 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
MINI "Enhanced" dealer self authorized (DSA)K goodwill program - B110221 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered into a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Gelis, et al. v. Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft and BMW of North America, LLC. - SIB110317 Jul 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW of North America, LLC BMW NA is extending the limited warranty for the engine timing chain and oil pump drive chain modules to: 7 years/70,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date - B110317 Oct 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For the above-referenced vehicles, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the engine timing chain and oil pump drive chain modules to: 7 years/70,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date. - B110317 Sep 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) is extending the limited warranty for the engine timing chain and oil pump drive chain modules to: 7 years/70,000 miles as determined by the vehicle's original in-service date - B110221 Jul 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
With the court's FINAL approval, BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA) has entered into a nationwide settlement with the plaintiffs in the following class action: Gelis, et al. v. Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft and BMW of North America, LLC. - B840121 May 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
TELEMATICS UNIT DEACTIVATION DUE TO 3G CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY DISCONTINUATION: The discontinuation of 3G cellular communication for Combox, TCB 3G and ATM 3G (Telematics ControlModule) can no longer be supported by the cellular network provider starting Februa… - B040221 Jun 1, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Distribution of the following tool will be through the Automatic Tool Shipment Program - B110317 Dec 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
N20 AND N26 ENGINE TIMING CHAIN AND OIL PUMP DRIVE CHAIN: Whining noise from the lower engine area near the engine oil pump that increases frequency when increasing the engine RPM. Wear on the engine oil pump chain drive and timing chain sprockets. - B652214 Apr 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
AUTOMATED ACTIVATION OF NAVIGATION SYSTEM DURING PDI/QC1: This Service Information Bulletin (Revision 2) replaces SI B65 22 14 dated October 2015. The INITIAL NAV enabling code no longer needs to be pre-ordered through the Parts department! When the vehicle… - B111417 Feb 1, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
N20 AND N26 ENGINES TURBOCHARGER ELECTRIC WASTEGATE ACTUATOR LINKAGE PIN CORROSION This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B11 14 17 dated February 2018. - B650815 Apr 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"Google(tm) Local Search Inactive. When searching for a Point of Interest (POI) in the navigation menu, the ""Google(tm) Local Search"" option cannot be selected. The POI search option ""Google(tm)Local Search"" is not activated." - B620315 Apr 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Door Open Message Displayed, Even Though Door Is Closed. The customer complains that while driving, a CCM (check control message) indicates the doors are open, even though they are closed. Also, sometimes the gong will sound and the interior lights will go … - B130315 Apr 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"N20 and N26 Engines: ETK Injector Part Number Error. INFORMATION The current version of ETK has an error on screen 13_1417: ""High -pressure pump/Tubing."" When selecting the high-pressure pump, the screen states ""only in conjunction with injector."" Disr… - B111315 Aug 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The plastic oil filter housing may fail and lead to an internal and/or external engine oil or coolant leak. - B840314 May 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Bluetooth Connection Failures. There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple iPhones Samsung S6 and the S6 Edge. Connectivity failure examples are: Call disconnection - Call is transferred back to the handset. In some instances t… - B111615 Apr 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
N20 and N26 engine: Smoke from Exhaust when Starting a Cold Engine. When starting a cold engine, blue smoke can be seen emitting from the exhaust tailpipe for approximately 10-20 seconds. No turbo charger boost faults are stored and no drivability issues ca… - B840314 Feb 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SI B84 03 14 February 2016 Communication Systems Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B84 03 14 dated October 2014. SUBJECT Bluetooth Connection Failures. There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple… - B650216 Feb 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SUBJECT Audio System Speaker Testing. For audio system speaker testing there is a NED (Non Electrical Diagnosis) Test Plan available. CAUSE We previously recommended use of the Audio Test CD (ATC) from BMW. This CD has been discontinued. - B130315 Feb 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SI B13 03 15 February 2016 Fuel Systems Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B13 03 15 dated March 2015 and replaces SI B13 04 13 dated March 2014. SUBJECT N20, N26, N55, N63TU, S63TU and S55 Engines: Bosch Injector ETK Part Num… - B120114 Feb 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"SI B12 01 14 February 2016 Electrical Systems Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B12 01 14 dated April 2014. Due to an error in the DME (Digital Motor Electronics) software, the required oxygen sensor onboard diagnostics (OBD… - B111615 Feb 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
February 2016 Engine Technical Service This Service Information Bulletin supersedes SI B11 16 15 dated September 2015 SUBJECT N20 and N26 engine: Smoke from Exhaust when Starting a Cold Engine. When starting a cold engine, blue smoke can be seen emitting fr… - B650709 Jan 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Whistling Noise Coming from the Center Vent - A/C is Off . A very high pitched whistling or beeping noise is heard coming from the center vents. The flow of refrigerant through the expansion valve at certain temperature differentials. - B513815 Dec 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Door Brake Makes Squeaking Noise. The customer may complain of a squeaking noise when opening or closing either front door. Debris inclusions imbed into the door brake slide mechanism. - B090615 Dec 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
New programming feature: Exclusion of Infotainment Control Units from Programming. Programming with ISTA/P 3.57.4, or a more recent update, displays a new Pop-Up window providing options for systems programming. - B650215 Jun 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
iDrive Controller Trim Peeling. The chrome ring on the iDrive controller is peeling. Poor chrome material adhesion. - B240215 Jun 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
8HP: Transmission Fluid Loss from Cooler Lines Connections. There is a transmission fluid leak in the area around the oil cooler lines (on the transmission side). CAUSE Damaged o-rings due to unfavorable cooling line connection tolerances - B840514 Mar 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
One or both of the situations listed below may be encountered: ? Android device connection stability (dropped calls) ? Third-Party App Metadata: The album art and song title do not update when streaming audio from Pandora or Spotify, etc. New KISU (Customer… - B110315 Mar 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
N20 and N26 Engine: Oil Leaks from Cylinder Head Cover. There is an engine oil leakage under the vehicle, or the vehicle smells of engine oil. The cylinder head cover gasket is leaking engine oil due to loose retaining bolt(s). - 651009 Jan 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B65 10 09 dated March 2013. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT CIC head unit: Vehicle Position Is Missing or Incorrect on Navigation Map. The vehicle position is missing or incorrect on the navigation… - 650509 Jan 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B65 05 09 dated July 2009. designates changes to this revision SUBJECT CIC Headunit: Navigation System Road Map Usage. INFORMATION The Car Information Computer (CIC) began replacing the Car Communication Compu… - 123814 Jan 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SUBJECT N20, N26, and N55 Engines with Injector Electrical Faults. Any of the following symptoms could occur simultaneously with injector electrical faults stored in the DME: z After the engine is turned off for a short time, it can no longer be started; ho… - 120415 Jan 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SUBJECT DME Internal and Valvetronic Faults Set at Cold Ambient Temperatures. The Service Engine Soon light (MIL) can be illuminated with the erroneous internal and Valvetronic faults stored in the DME. The MIL will only come on if the fault has been detect… - B111615 Sep 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?N20 and N26 engine: Smoke from Exhaust when Starting a Cold Engine. When starting a cold engine, blue smoke can be seen emitting from the exhaust tailpipe for approximately 10-20 seconds. No turbo charger boost faults are stored and no drivability issues c… - B840215 Jul 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Cannot Update Bluetooth Software (KISU Data). The vehicle does not accept the KISU (Customer Initiated Software Update) software update. - B511615 Jul 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"Affected vehicles in dealer inventory must not be retailed or delivered until the label is removed. Vehicles at ports of entry will be remedied prior to dealer delivery. On affected vehicles, there is an incorrect label regarding the appropriate engine oil… - B360215 May 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Valve Stem Replacement with Wheel Electronics. INFORMATION The valve stems are single-use only, and must be replaced every time the wheel electronics are replaced. If you loosen the nut (1), you must replace the valve stem. Failure to replace the valve stem… - 650215 Feb 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SiDrive Controller Trim Peeling. The chrome ring on the iDrive controller is peeling. Poor chrome material adhesion - B511615 Aug 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"Delivery Stop: Remove Engine Oil Label. Affected vehicles in dealer inventory must not be retailed or delivered until the label is removed. Vehicles at ports of entry will be remedied prior to dealer delivery. On affected vehicles, there is an incorrect la… - B111315 Jul 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The plastic oil filter housing may fail and lead to an internal and/or external engine oil or coolant leak. - B652516 Oct 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
USB CABLE: BATTERY DISCHARGE/AUDIO FAILURE/RADIO RECEPTION. No sound from the radio, telephone, gong signal and or PDC. Poor radio reception and failure of the telematics systems. Possible Check Control system message: o Battery discharge when engine off. o… - B240215 Nov 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
8HP: TRANSMISSION FLUID LOSS FROM COOLER LINES CONNECTIONS. There is a transmission fluid leak in the area around the oil cooler lines (on the transmission side). CAUSE Damaged O-rings due to unfavorable cooling line connection tolerances - B840214 Jun 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist System Diagnosis Information This Service Information bulletin replaces SI B84 02 14 dated July 2014 What's New: Model - Removed models which no longer support BMW Assist functionality and added new models. Procedure - Add step r… - B840816 Apr 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The underlying 2G technology for the GSM (Global System Mobile communication) COMBOX will no longer be supported by the cellular network providers after December 31, 2016. This COMBOX and the BMW Assist services that use its functionality will therefore no … - B840316 Apr 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SERVICE ACTION: GSM COMBOX DEACTIVATION / DISCONTINUATION WITH 4 YEAR ASSIST SERVICE. What's New: ? Model: Option code removed to prevent confusion about affected vehicles ? Situation: Information added about Bluetooth functionality that is not affect by th… - B840311 Apr 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
"?Telematics Device Spares Replacement Part Activation via DCSnet for BMW Assist What's New: ? Model: All models added along with 6AC option code ? Situation: All information added ? Information: Deleted CDMA related information and added activation of Wi-F… - B130315 Apr 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
?N20, N26, N55, N63TU, S63TU and S55 Engines: Bosch Injector ETK Part Number Error What's New: ? Identifying the injector type using the ISTA test plan ? Determining the injector part number using the new the parts table. The current version of the ETK inco… - B130315 Mar 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
N20, N26, N55, N63TU, S63TU and S55 Engines: Bosch Injector ETK Part Number Error What's New: ? Procedure change: indentifying injector type using an ISTA test plan. . The current version of the ETK incorporates multiple part number errors for the Bosch typ… - B650709 Jun 1, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance: - B650709 May 1, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NAVIGATION SYSTEM: REPORTING MISSING OR INCORRECT ROAD MAP DATA: The route guidance is inaccurate and therefore irritating to the customer; or it is not possible to locate certain addresses, for instance: - B840314 Jan 1, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Bluetooth Connection Failures: There are various connectivity failures with the following devices: Apple iPhones: Samsung S6 and the S6 Edge. - B840214 May 1, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist System Diagnosis Information
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.