There are no safety recalls for the 2002 BMW Z3, but owners have filed 6 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 BMW Z3 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 55,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 BMW Z3 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Electrical System · at 55,000 miles · reported Jul 18, 2020
When headlights are turned on the left blinkers starts blinking rapidly and is very dim so not really visible. When headlights are off it operates normally. This happens when stationary and when moving. I have seen a number of same problems reported on bmw forums like follows: https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=537810://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=537810
Service Brakes · at 35,200 miles · reported Sep 28, 2019
2002bmw z3. The ABS/dsc system malfunctions at speeds above 40mph. The right front brake engages and abruptly forces the car to pull hard right. The ABS lights on the display panel. No bumps or bad road conditions were experienced prior to or at the time this malfunction occurs. This is a very serious safety issue endangering not only the driver, but all vehicle drivers in proximity.
Seat Belts · at 46,000 miles · reported Aug 9, 2016
Seems to be a known problem - seat-belt guide has broken as it is warped plastic and stopping short can break it. In an accident seat belt could slip up, or impact neck as it is not held into place near the seat. Dealer wants $400 to fix what seems to be a defect
Steering · at 102,000 miles · reported Dec 21, 2015
Two times we have been unable to disengage the steering wheel locked. We have had to get the car towed to dealer for service. We thought that the first time was a mistake, then it happened a second time. No matter how hard we tried, we could not get the steering wheel unlocked to drive the car, even though we had the key. The vehicle was in the parking position and we could not get the steering wheel to move. We have a automatic transmission with a key lock. We would park the car in the parking lot and when we returned, we would put the key in the ignition to start the car, but the steering…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 BMW Z3 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 BMW Z3 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 BMW Z3?
Owners report air bags problems most often (2 reports), followed by steering (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 55,000 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.