Models · BMW
BMW Z4 M Roadster and M Coupé buying guide
The M versions of the first Z4, built from 2006 to 2008 as the M Roadster and M Coupé, with the S54 3.2 straight-six from the E46 M3 and a six-speed manual. They also take hydraulic steering, wider front track and brakes and rear axle parts from the M3 CS and CSL.
The versions
- S54 3.2 straight-six, 343PS, with double VANOS
- Six-speed manual with a limited-slip differential
- M Roadster (E85) with a fabric hood, and M Coupé (E86)
- Hydraulic power steering, unlike the electric steering of other Z4s
- About 5,070 Roadsters and 4,275 Coupés were built worldwide
What to check on a Z4 M
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
A rattle from the front of the engine
What to look for: With the bonnet open and the engine cold, start it and listen at the front. It should idle high for a short time, then settle with an even, light tick from the valve gear. A rattle or clatter from the front, a lumpy idle or a loud tick that doesn't fade are the things to note.
Why it matters: A front-end rattle usually points at the VANOS variable camshaft timing unit, whose seals harden with age, or less often a worn timing chain guide. Some VANOS noise between about 3,000 and 4,000rpm is normal on these cars, so judge the cold idle rather than that.
Connecting rod bearings
What to look for: Ask whether the connecting rod bearings have been replaced, and for the invoice. With the engine warm, listen for a knock from low in the engine that rises with the revs.
Why it matters: The rod bearings are a known wear point on the S54 engine in the E46 M3, which the Z4 M shares. Many owners have them replaced as a precaution, and an invoice for it is a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Valve clearances and oil services
What to look for: In the history, look for the valve clearances being checked at each Inspection service, and for regular oil changes with the correct grade.
Why it matters: The S54 has adjustable valve clearances that BMW checks at each Inspection, and general garages sometimes skip it. Clearances out of adjustment show as a persistent tick and poorer running.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox: first to second
- Jerky pull-away
- Engine lamp and oxygen sensors
- Steering and alignment
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Z4 M
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.