Liviu Marcus
The Problem
E85/E86 BMW Z4 faces a huge steering-related problem in its lineup from 2003-2009 that has not been addressed or resolved by BMW yet. So, for those looking forward to buying this car, and want an opinion on how bad this problem is, simply do not buy this model.
So the issue is that the steering in the BMW Z4 stiffens up out of nowhere, and when you look up to find out what has failed, it is mostly your power steering motor that has gone bad. And it does cost a fortune to replace it. And even then, you are not sure that this problem won’t pop up later on again.
The Cause
So, what causes these frequent power steering system burnouts of the E85/E86 generation BMW Z4? It is expected to be caused by the build-up of grease in hot conditions.
The hot weather makes the steering difficult to turn, which causes the electric motor to overwork and burn out frequently.
This is also backed up by the fact that this problem is prone to Z4s that are exposed to a hotter environment.
The Diagnosis
This problem of the failed electric-powered system is diagnosed with the help of a fault code reader. If you hook up the car with an error code reader, you will notice that the electric power steering system will fail to even communicate with the device.
Chances are that you fault with your entire power steering column.
The E85/E86 BMW Z4 is surely the worst BMW model when comes to power steering reliability.
The Repair – How to Fix
This problem is only fixed by replacing your power steering system or rebuilding it. It first requires you to take off the rack and pinion assembly by jacking up your car. Then you get access to the electric power steering system.
You need to remove the T-45 and T-40 screws to take off the cover and the power steering system.
Also, make sure to disconnect any electrical connection from the system before prying it out. The next thing would be placing the new system inside and attaching back all the bolts and connections
The Cost and Time
According to the complexity of the job, the dealership might quote you from $2000 to $2500. Whereas you might be able to get it going a bit cheaper if you look into some workshops outside.
This job will also take your workshop from 3 to 7 days to fix, as it might take time to source the correct parts or rebuild it from a qualified person.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, avoid this car if you can. But if you happen to own one, keep in mind that the newly installed power steering system will also be prone to failure as much as the previously fitted system was. So, get rid of this car when its steering is in working condition, as you might end up investing more in the car than it is worth.
There are very low expectations that BMW will call out a recall for this problem in this dated BMW Z4 ( E85/E86 generation – 2003 -> 2009 ).
