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2004 BMW Z4 recalls and problems

The 2004 BMW Z4 has 1 safety recall and 411 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
411
Crashes / fires
1 / 2
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2004 BMW Z4 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2004 BMW Z4 recalls

Recall 04V-182: Fuel System, Gasoline

Reported Apr 12, 2004 · 13,769 vehicles affected · BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE

Problem: On certain passenger vehicles, under certain environmental conditions, a vapor lock in the fuel pump could occur causing the engine to stall. If this were to happen, the engine would not be able to be restarted for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Risk: If stalling were to occur, the driver would be unable to maintain vehicle speed or accelerate, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will install a resistor in the electrical line powering the fuel pump in order to prevent an occurrence of vapor lock. The recall began may 11, 2004. Owners should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.

2004 BMW Z4 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Steering381
Air Bags21
Electrical System14
Exterior Lighting6
Power Train3
Structure3
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)3
Visibility/Wiper3
Service Brakes2
Visibility1
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic1

Most reported parts

  • Steering › Electric Power Assist System — 9
  • Steering › Column — 7
  • Structure › Body — 2
  • Steering › Steering Wheel/Handle Bar — 1
  • Air Bags › Frontal — 1
  • Steering › Rack and Pinion — 1
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
  • Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 47,000 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 2004 BMW Z4 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Steering · reported Jun 9, 2025
Twice this month, while operating the vehicle, the power steering completely stopped functioning, causing the vehicle to be almost uncontrollable. No prior warning light. When I purchased the vehicle in 2018, the same problem occurred and the dealer replaced the steering column under warranty. In researching online I find that this is a common problem with this model. I am surprised to find that there is no recall notice for what is a major safety concern.
Steering · reported Jun 3, 2025
Power steering wheel went out of power during a trip at about 70mph. Yellow light at the dashboard went ON then so, car became imposible to drive or so.
Steering · reported Feb 12, 2025
The electric steering gets sticky when very often. It feels locked in its position and requires extra force to unstick, once its past the sticking point it over corrects and causes the vehicle to swerve. This failure seems to be quite common and is well known. It seems to be a manufacturing defect inside the electric steering column. I believe it should be investigated by NHTSA. The last time it happened my car went off onto the soft shoulder. The manufacturer should repair the steering. It’s a widely known issue.
Steering · reported Jun 4, 2024
When driving the steering is loose or sticky. The problem gets worse when the weather is warm. Sometimes it’s hard to keep the car driving in a straight path. This is scary and dangerous. His occurs whenever the car is driven. Other z4 drivers are having the same problem.
Steering · reported Sep 8, 2023
The steering sticks, in warmer weather, at freeway speeds. Continuously trying to unstick the steering wheel, with the possibility of overcorrecting, at freeway speeds, could present a safety hazard. Yes, the alignment company recognized the problem during their post-alignment test drive. The vehicle has not been inspected by "manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives." No warning lamps/lights/messages on dash. However, if you google 2004 BMW with sticky steering, you will find NUMEROUS accounts of this happening to other owners of similar vehicles (specifically 2003-2005 Z4).

Other BMW Z4 years

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Compare all BMW Z4 years · All BMW models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2004 BMW Z4 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2004 BMW Z4: 04V-182 (fuel system, gasoline). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2004 BMW Z4?

Owners report steering problems most often (381 reports), followed by air bags (21). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 47,000 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.