9.0

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
42,050 miles
Total Complaints:
6 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (4 reports)
  2. replace entire electric steering (2 reports)
2003 BMW Z4 steering problems

steering problem

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2003 BMW Z4 Owner Comments

problem #6

Sep 252008

Z4 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 13,558 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Steering is sticking like there is a groove in the road forcing the vehicle to bear left or right. Very scary! This occurred at 13,558 miles in 2008 the vehicle only has 39,700 miles on it now (03/2022) because it's scary to drive and way too expensive to repair. This should have been a BMW recall. Can't believe BMW allows this defect to exist on its vehicles that are supposed to be designed with superior driving quality. I would expect BMW to replace this steering column at their cost for faulty, unsafe design.

- Rick Y., Franklinton, NC, US

problem #5

Jun 102017

Z4 Roadster 2.5L V6

  • Manual transmission
  • 80,500 miles

I have noticed an issue with the steering since having the car but it seems to be more pronounced when it's warm outside (above 90) for some reason. When driving there is a definite rigidness that occurs when steering. It feels very tight, not fluid as it should and there is a release or gap that occurs when turning that makes me feel unsafe at times. I thought that at first it was in need of steering fluid but learned online that it is a electric and not hydraulic. Is there a recall on this? or a fix?

- Shawn W., Danville, VA, US

problem #4

Jun 152016

Z4 2.5L 6 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 8,748 miles

I have the same complaint as many others with a 2003 z4. The steering is very sticky, rigid or notchy whatever you want to call it. In the city it is not as noticeable, however on the highway it in my opinion makes driving this vehicle dangerous. I cannot believe the steering problem has not caused an accident or fatality as it makes highway driving risky. I cannot believe this issue has not resulted in a recall from BMW or government authority. Very sad and tragic situation. I avoid using the Z4 on the highway, limiting my travel to local venues.

- mach5, manhattan, KS, US

problem #3

Dec 032015

Z4 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 21,684 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The steering sticks, skips and causes over-steering. This is VERY dangerous and should have been subject to recall. For a company that bills itself as elite, providing the best driving experience, they SUCK!

- Jac L., Manhattan Beach, CA, US

problem #2

Aug 022013

Z4 3.0L

  • Manual transmission
  • 84,000 miles

Steering started out in August sticking and difficult to correct while driving and became noticeable when car got warm. Now it not only is sticking but has a whining noise when turning the wheel while the car is moving. There are so many Z4';s with this problem, BMW should recall and fix.

- George L., Cos Bay, OR, US

problem #1

Jun 012013

Z4 3I 3.0L

  • Manual transmission
  • 43,670 miles

There are two other complaints listed, one was satisfied by BMW. This is serious as it causes over-steering and depending on level of driver skill can put the car out of lane you are driving in either to the left or right.

- ggsiantp, Smithfield, RI, US

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