1998 BMW Z3 Roadster
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 19
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1998: 19 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 19 |
| 2000 | 17 |
| 2001 | 8 |
Known problem areas
Only 19 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
7 of 19 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing frame and members and body.
Show complaint excerpts
The battery compartment fills with water when to rains and does not empty. This problem also causes rust and moisture in the trunk.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-02-18
Air bags
3 of 19 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
1998 BMW Z3, 1.9. SRS (Airbag light) constantly coming on ever since I bought it! I had it fixed 3 times already at the dealership supposedly under waranty but still costing me atleast 100 dollars r "Diagnostic fees".
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-03-12
Seats
2 of 19 total reports mention: seats.
Show complaint excerpts
Driver seat rail is defective and it moves back and forth as you stop or accelerate posing a driver control safey hazard. BMW will not fix at their cost and says it is a consumer request repair.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-10-13
Power train
2 of 19 total reports mention: power train.
Tires
2 of 19 total reports mention: tires, most commonly citing tread/belt.
Show complaint excerpts
Negative camber caused increase wear on the inside of the rear tires, which caused 6 tire blow outs.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-08-21
While driving, negative camber caused tread to wear down on rear tires. *ak this caused abnormal wear on the rear tires and had a potential of loss of control of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-08-21
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1998 BMW Z3 Roadster — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 7 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Seats: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 37% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.