2009 BMW Z4 Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2009 BMW Z4
- The system most likely to surface first: n54 engine components (sdrive35i) (major severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv).
- Scores 8 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2008 BMW Z4 earns a 80.
Is the 2009 BMW Z4 Worth Buying?
The 2009 BMW Z4 (E89) provides a luxurious and engaging open-top driving experience, but it comes with the typical BMW cost of ownership and specific reliability concerns, particularly with the sDrive35i's N54 engine. While a delightful car to drive, buyers must be prepared for potential high-cost repairs to truly enjoy this German roadster without financial stress.
Biggest Strengths
- Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- High-quality interior materials and finish
- Sophisticated retractable hardtop mechanism
What Tends to Fail First on the 2009 BMW Z4
The systems that break first on the 2009 BMW Z4. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
2009 BMW Z4 Recall History
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2011 128i and 2007-2011 328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive, 525i, 525xi, 528i, 528xi, 530i, 530xi, X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive30i, Z4 3.0i, Z4 3.0si and Z4 sDrive30i vehicles. The heater for the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve may short circuit.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 1-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured December 2007 through September 2011; and 2007-2011 3-Series coupes and convertibles manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sedans manufactured March 2007 through October 2011; 2007-2011 3-Series sports wagons manufactured March 2007 through June 2011; and 2009-2011 Z4 vehicles manufactured March 2009 through June 2011. In February 2013, BMW recalled 504,545 vehicles. In July 2013, BMW informed the agency that it was adding 1-Series, 3-Series, and Z4 vehicles, representing an additional 12,094 vehicles. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 516,791. The connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time. Over time, the high current flow and heat from electrical resistance may lead to a breakage of the connection, and a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.
What breaks on the 2009 BMW Z4?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other BMW Z4 Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the BMW Z4. Click any year for its full report.
2009 BMW Z4 Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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