buying a z3

nec · 05-17-2006, 08:06 PM

im planning on buying a z3 sumtime real soon. just waiting for the right one...i wanna get the 2.8 or 3.0.. what are the common problems i should look for when going to check the car out?

thanks

crusher · 05-17-2006, 10:36 PM

Rear subframe.. Check that and have a mechanic look at it.. It is a common problem for this cars for the rear subframe to crack... My coupe has 111000km now and still no signs of the cracks.. Anyways, check out the link below it's mostly for the M Coupe but should apply some of them for the roadster.

http://www.maxbimmer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33054

jameswbl · 05-19-2006, 11:11 PM

where can you get the subframe fixed in Toronto?

thinking about preemptive fix...

crusher · 05-20-2006, 12:16 PM

I don't know anyone that does the subgrame fix in toronto besides replacing the subframe itself.. It looks like you can buy the reinforcement plates from Randy Forbes for 600USD and then have someone weld it for you. Or you can go to Randy he lives at Ohio which is not far from here.

Email him at Erandyforbes@aol.com and ask about the PDF outlines about the work he does.

PS: You will need a new LSD with dual ears..

Check the fix images here

jameswbl · 05-20-2006, 10:02 PM

thx Bruce...

yeah I talked to Randy...turns out minimally I will need new exhaust (the stock wont clear the duel ear), new/mod speed sensor wheel in diff and the dual ear diff cover...read: lots of $$$ and makes my coupe undrivable for at least 2 mths

and it affects the crumble zone...very bad for rear end collision...