BMW Z3 FAQ


BMW Z3

Question: How do I manually lower a power top on a 2000 bmw z3?
I have a 2000 bmw z3 2.8 and it has a power top that is currently not working for some reason. Does anyone know how I can manually lower the top? Thanks a lot for any help I can get.

Answer: It's easy. Open the trunk and reach behind the left (driver's side) trim panel. The hydraulic motor and pump are located there (sort of under the radio antenna). On top of the pump, there is a "T" shaped handle, maybe an inch long. Unscrew that handle about 2 turns. The convertible top should now operate just like a manual top.

If you can't feel the handle, you might have to pull the trim panel out slightly and look, using a flashlight to see it.

 

Question: How to reset the keyless system in a BMW Z3 after battery went dead?
I had to change the battery in my 1999 BMW Z3 and it seems like the keyless system lost its memory. When I try to turn the keyless system on, the alarm starts after a few seconds. Any clue of what I should do? Thanks.

Answer: This is what I found :

Use remote key to unlock car.
Get in car and close door.
Switch ignition on and then off.
Press and hold unlock button.
Keep pressing unlock button and press lock button briefly three times within 10 seconds.
Release unlock button.
Either the LED light on the key will flash slowly for ten seconds or the car will lock and unlock quickly to show that programming has worked.

 

Question: Is it cost effective to buy a BMW z3 which is 1999-2000 model with 70K miles?
I love BMW Z3, but cannot afford a new one. I am planning to buy a 1999-2000 model. My friends say that it will cost me a lot in repairs, and that I am better off buying a newer model or honda or something, and buy a new Z3 when I can. Are there any Z3 owners who can give me any guidence. Any comments is greately appreciated. Thanks.

Answer: If you are getting a good price, and you have proof the vehicle has been serviced correctly and all service records yes. Both BMW and Mercedes have areas in the owners manual to have certification stamps. If they are there you can easily know what services have been done.

 

Question: What is the estimated labor time to replace rear brake pads? BMW Z3?
Actually I have 2 questions. My BMW Z3 needs new rear brake pads. I bought the pads myself but want a repair shop to install them.

1. What is the estimated labor time to replace the rear brake pads?

2. What's the average hourly labor charge by mechanics?

Answer: The book will probably give it 2 hours
actual work time for experienced mechanic.. less than an hour

dealer shop rate in st louis..100.00/hr

independent shop... 55-100/hr

You need to find a reliable independent shop, that works on BMWs... that you can establish a rapport with..

 

Question: Can i put a non bmw battery in an 1997 bmw z3?
i have a 1997 bmw z3 and it has a bmw "old fashioned" looking battery with the water holes, etc. I want to put a more higher performance optima or the like because i have stereo amps and other accessories. ive read on some bmw sites that you have to put a bmw battery in it because they are different, is that true? or are they just trying to get you to spend more money?

Answer: If you can find one the right size with the same terminal placement, sure, why not. but it's not going to help run a lot of accessories. For that you need more output from the alternator. That might be a little tougher.

 

Question: How do I find out problem about my BMW Z3. power windows, central locking will not work after I jumped the car
After jump starting my BMW Z3, the power windows, central locking will not work. Is this something I can fix myself?

answer: This happens from time to time, I believe it's due to a glitch in mechanism, I've had that happen on my 525 and also opening trunk internally, I'd take it to dealer get it checked as soon as your next inspection is due or oil change, I had to bear with it for some time, as I didn't have time to take it in. Problem goes away by itself, it can be at any given time. (Obviously consult your manual) Most likely it'll say to have it checked, (No time) As I said it should go away at any given moment.

I didn't fully read your question, very strange you jump started it, you are not supposed to, you would throw off the mechanism, you should've called road assistance, (should be part of the package, for a new car) otherwise could end up voiding the warranty. You might have a problem, you need to call or check for the problem at
http://www.bmwusa.com/

By the way, if this is the case, you really don't have a choice but to take it to the dealer or a BMW specialist. I know of one, where are you located?
Hope this helped.

 

Question: Thinking of buying a BMW Z3 Roaster - Is it a good car?
I fell in love with the BMW Z3 when I was about 10 years old when I saw it in the movie GoldenEye, and I've always had it on my "buy list." But if I buy a 1997 -2000 Roaster for $6,000-$10,000, am I throwing my money away on a car that is going to break down in 2 years?

answer: Despite common belief, european cars in general are more reliable than american cars but are less reliable than Asian. The BMW Z3 and Z4 have a pretty good track record except for the fact that they suffer from engine cooling problems. So, if you live in a hot southern state like Arizona, Texas or New Mexico, I would stay away from it. Also, no matter what car you buy, with time and milage they will need extra maintanace and repairs, and BMW parts and labor can be pricy. A good alternative is the Honda S2000. Stay clear from year models 2000 and 2003. They had trany problems.

 

Question: Why doesn't my stereo on my BMW Z3 work after changing the battery?
my Z is a 1999 with 52,000 miles. The battery recently needed to be replaced. The code does not bring my stereo system back to life even though the bmw dealership says it is the correct code. they don't have an answer why it isn't working. any suggestions?

Answer: Who replaced you battery? If the terminals were accidentally reversed - even for a second, it could fry some electronics in the car; including the radio.

Check your radio manual, there usually is a slip of paper called "radio certificate" with the serial number and code for your radio. But if it still refuses to work, don't worry. You are in the "right season" to be looking for a new radio... your BMW radio is quite basic compared to even sub-$200 aftermarket radios.

With Black Friday coming up, this might be a good time to look at a new radio - since your Z3 uses a standard DIN sized radio.

Crutchfield.com just sent me an email... they have a JVC HD-radio equipped head unit for $159 that will definitely fit your car! (See link) It is also compatible to both XM and Sirius satellite radio (with an add-on module).

I've also listed 2 other interesting choices for you. All name brand manufacturers.

These guys will also supply you with the correct wiring harness for your Z3 to make the installation a plug-and-play process.

 

Question: My BMW z3 started to overheat in traffic. I turned on the heater and it was fine? Can I still drive the car?
My 98 BMW z3 started to overheat last night in traffic. I turned the heat on and the temp immediately went back to normal. I drove it a few hours later (in no traffic) and it was fine. I had the radiator replaced last year, but now i'm afraid to drive it to work or to the shop which is far and expensive. Is this just a fluke? Is it safe to drive for awhile until I can take it to the shop?

answer: you can drive it for a little bit, but i would take it to the shop ASAP!

It could be one of the following problems
Thermostat
low radiator fluid
fan not working
busted hose

Turning the heater on cools down the radiator. You check 3 of those really easy to see if thats the problem. Look at the hose that runs from the radiator to the engine...if its connected and no cuts in it, its fine.
If the fan that is against the radiator is not working, it wont spin when the engine is running(very easy to see)
checking radiator fluid is pretty easy, I dont think i have to tell you how to do that.
But chances are its the thermostat. The part depending on what type of Z3 you have will run you from anywhere from 30 to 65 dollars and if you take it to the dealership add another 200 for labor. Consult your BMW manual and it should tell you how to change it, its really not that hard.

 

Question: How do you get the hood of a 97 Bmw Z3 roadster up?
We can get the hood up enough to feel the latch but it is like something snapped. You can press it down all day. I need to get under there and fix my radiator. If you know any idea as to how to get it off or open please advise. Thank you!

answer: should be a hood release in the passenger compartment. If this does not get it up and seems to work, have someone pull and hold and the try banging the hood with your fist to see if you can get it to release enough to get to the safety catch. If this does not work you will need to ge to the catch from under the car. You may need a mechanic to do this. I assume you have this up before and it used to work?

 

Question: Can I change the color of the lights on the instrument panel of my 1998 BMW Z3?
The instrument panel speedometer,fuel gauge etc.. lights are orange I'd like them to be blue or white. Is this possible?

Answer: I've never heard of changing the color of the lights. I guess I got used to it. Whatever you do to the car, please go to someone who works exclusively with BMWs or take the car to BMW Servicing. There are way too many mechanics who say they know bmws but they have no idea what they're doing.

 

Question: I purchased a BMW Z3 last year, any fellow Z3 owners here?
I'm so proud to own one considering my age, I'm 22 years old, and I feel very accomplished to of bought one. I'm a very hard worker and I've always wanted one. Are there any fellow Z3 owners on here that would like to share their qualities or experiences with this particular car and model? Thanks!

Answer: Currently im 18, i've owned a E36 '98 M3 which was totaled when I was 16 because of some dumb driver.

Now I own a '00 328ci and an '01 M3. It's how you manage your $$, but no need to flaunt your stuff man... seriously...
like you, I accomplished through hard-work (i.e. Stock Market, although the first M3 was my parent's gift to me) but even billionaires, i.e. Jim Walton, owner of Wal-mart drives an '02 Dodge Dakota... go figure.

but regardless, congrats! Join www.bimmerfest.com community to discuss with other owners if you'd like.

 

Question: The check engine light is on in my 1997 BMW Z3. They said it was a traction issue. What does this mean?
The place I took it to wasn't set up to work on BMW problems like this. Is this going to be an expensive fix? What happens if I don't do anything about it?

answer: quit peeling out. naw j/k. but yeah its an expensive fix. my buddys BMW the same thing happened. the part costed $1200, thats not including labor.


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