2009 BMW Z4
Only 22 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 22 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 22
- Recalls
- 4
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2009
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2009: 22 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 4 |
| 2003 | 414 |
| 2004 | 411 |
| 2005 | 191 |
| 2006 | 91 |
| 2007 | 33 |
| 2008 | 19 |
| 2009 | 22 |
| 2010 | 10 |
| 2011 | 46 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2014 | 7 |
| 2015 | 5 |
| 2016 | 4 |
| 2019 | 5 |
| 2020 | 5 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 0 |
| 2024 | 0 |
| 2025 | 1 |
| 2026 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 22 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Wheels
11 of 22 total reports mention: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
I had two of these rims bend and crack ( Model 296) I had the rim and tire warranty that I paid extra for and BMW covered a replacement for one and paid to have the other straightened.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-11-08
Both rear wheels developed cracks. These were 19 inch BMW style 296 wheels with run-flat tires.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-11-01
This problem affects wheel style "296" A 19" Optional alloy wheel package for E89 BMW Z4. BMW part number 36116785257(Rear wheel 19X9) and 36116785256(Front wheel 19X8.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-09-13
Engine
4 of 22 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 17V683000 (Engine and engine cooling); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-17
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 BMW Z4. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 17V683000 (Engine and engine cooling); however, the part needed for the repair was not available.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-04
Seat belts
2 of 22 total reports mention: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
Drivers side seat belt frayed at the point where it comes out of the vehicle when I am seated and buckled in. This is nearly impossible for me to see and I only saw it by chance pulling the seat belt out for some incidental reason.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-02-09
Electrical system
2 of 22 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 BMW Z4 convertible. The contact was driving approximately 10-20 MPH when the vehicle stalled without warning. He was able to immediately restart the vehicle without hesitation. The vehicle was not repaired.
NHTSA ODI report, 2010-09-17
Air bags
2 of 22 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing occupant classification.
Show complaint excerpts
The airbag sensor in my passenger seat has failed. I have been quoted approximately $2000 to repair this. However researching online I see BMW Service Bulletin SB-[XXX] which indicates this may be a widespread problem?
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-02-09
Safety timeline
4 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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2009-09-05Electrical system09V327000 BMW is recalling certain model year 2009 Z4 30I and 35I vehicles manufactured between March 10 and March 19, 2009. A defective crimp connector in a belt tensioner wiring plug may lead to increased…
Remedy: The safety belt tensioner wiring will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on September 5, 2009. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417.
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2013-03-13Electrical system13V044000 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…
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the positive battery cable connector and secure it with an improved method, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2013. Owners may call BMW…
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2018-06-18Engine and engine cooling17V683000 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.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the PCV valve heater, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on November 27, 2017. Owners will receive a second notification by the end of October 2018.
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2022-07-22Engine and engine cooling22V119000 BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2008-2013 1 Series Coupe (128i); 2007-2013 3 Series Coupe (328i, 328xi, 328i xDrive); 2007-2010 X3 SAV (X3 3.0si, X3 xDrive30i); 2008-2013 1 Series Convertible (128i); 2006-2011 3 Series Sedan...
Remedy: This recall supersedes and expands previous NHTSA recalls 17V-683 and 19V-273. Dealers will install an electrical wiring harness with fuse protection for the PCV Valve heater in potentially affected vehicles, free of charge.
Buy-smart checklist
2009 BMW Z4 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Wheels: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 09V327000 · Electrical system
- Recall 13V044000 · Electrical system
- Recall 17V683000 · Engine and engine cooling
- Recall 22V119000 · Engine and engine cooling
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4?
- The most-reported component is wheels, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2009 BMW Z4 have?
- 4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.