2001 BMW Z3 Roadster

○ Not enough data
2001 BMW Z3 Roadster
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:51:33.124Z

Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

Complaints
8

Too few to rank

Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
—

Not enough data

Complaints per year

1998: 19 complaints 1998 2000: 17 complaints 2000 2001: 8 complaints 2001 8
1998: 19 complaints 1998 2000: 17 complaints 2000 2001: 8 complaints 2001 8
1998: 19 complaints 1998 2000: 17 complaints 2000 2001: 8 complaints 2001 8

2001: 8 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
199819
200017
20018

Known problem areas

Only 8 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Power train

3 of 8 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing manual transmission and pedal/hand lever(motorcycle).

Show complaint excerpts

I am driving as normal and then the car begins to have problems shifting and the transmission indicator light comes on.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-06-19

Also filed under Electrical system

I have a 2003 BMW Z4 with sequential manual gearbox. The car automatically shifts into neutral without any warning. This is very dangerous when you are trying to merge into traffic.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-26

Air bags

2 of 8 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing side/window.

INJURY
Show complaint excerpts

I own a 2001 BMW Z3 3.0I roadster that spontaneously deployed its driver's side door airbag when I shut off the ignition in the driveway, resulting in a large bruise and burn on my left arm.

NHTSA ODI report, 2008-08-22

Vehicle drove over a large chunk of concrete while driving about 25 MPH when the side air bag on passenger's side deployed.

NHTSA ODI report, 2004-01-29

Suspension

1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension.

Show complaint excerpts

I am the original owner of this auto. I noticed a noise coming from the rear of the vehicle on deceleration. Upon inspecting the car, I found that the rear sub frame was almost broker in half.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-05-23

Service brakes

1 of 8 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.

Engine and engine cooling

1 of 8 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine.

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

2001 BMW Z3 Roadster — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
  • Air bags: 2 reports on file for this year.
  • Suspension: 1 report on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3 Roadster?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2001 BMW Z3 Roadster have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.