
r/BMWZ4

Upgraded my Z4 steering wheel — honestly turned out better than I expected
Recently upgraded the steering wheel on my Z and figured I’d share the experience in case anyone else is considering doing the same.
I found the seller on eBay and ended up connecting with him directly through WhatsApp. He’s based in Latvia, and I was honestly a little hesitant at first, but the whole experience was flawless — communication, customization, shipping, everything.
The wheel came as a complete new steering wheel with the buttons already included. All I had to do was transfer over my factory airbag module from the original wheel. The workmanship is seriously impressive — OEM quality, if not better.
It’s wrapped in Nappa leather with Alcantara trim, and I had him customize mine with a blue center stripe instead of red to match my blue calipers. Small detail, but it ties everything together perfectly.
Total cost was $600 shipped, including the buttons, Nappa leather, Alcantara trim, custom stripe, and international shipping. Considering the quality and how much some of these wheels go for elsewhere, I’m really happy with it.
I added a few pictures from his eBay listing as well so you can get a better look at his workmanship. I’d definitely recommend him if anyone is looking to upgrade their steering wheel.
E85 owners! What bucket/ racing seats are you guys using?
Thinking about upgrading to actual racing seats since I use my car only on the weekends. What are some racing seats that fit the Z4 on the OEM fitting? First time getting a racing seat so need some guidance.
Anyone else notice their hood shakes when driving faster than 90mph or 150kmh on the highway? E89.
Is this normal?
Edit: it was the hood bump stops. Fixed the rattling at higher speeds.
High mileage heroes and heroines
Hi All. I’ve just passed 150k miles on my 2006 E85 2.5 Si - still on the original clutch I might add.
She is no garage queen and is used constantly. Most of the issues are electrical, but the N52 is still as sweet as a nut.
I’m in the UK so less opportunity for racking up mega miles that is possible in US and Canada, but I’d love to hear about any other high mileage Z4s.
Auto Solutions Shifter
Auto Solutions shifter — anyone here running one? Registration opens tomorrow
I’m strongly considering ordering an Auto Solutions short shifter for my Z since registration opens tomorrow at 12 PM Central, and I wanted to get a general pulse check from anyone who has firsthand experience.
For those who have one installed:
How much did it change the driving experience?
Did it give the car that more mechanical, direct, Porsche-like shifter feel?
Any noticeable increase in NVH, vibration, or cabin noise?
What reduction percentage did you go with, and would you choose the same setup again?
Also curious if anyone here knows Ron or has dealt with him directly. From everything I’ve read, he seems to have a great reputation and really knows these cars, but I’d love to hear from people who have actually gone through the ordering/install process.
I’m not necessarily looking for the shortest or harshest setup possible — more of an OEM+ feel with better precision, directness, and engagement. Something that makes the car feel more special without making it annoying to drive.
Would love to hear any feedback before I register.
2022 Z4 Sdrive30I thoughts?
Hey everyone, so I’m in the market for a sports car. I was initially looking for American muscle, however, I have the chance to get the 2022 Z4 Sdrive30I. The car doesn’t have a high price due to me knowing the owner. Now, I’d absolutely love to get the 40I because it’s faster, and most importantly has a very nice exhaust. But I want anyone’s opinion on the 30I. Do you guys think I should go for it? Does it have a nice exhaust? How does it drive? Does it feel like a 2 cylinder?
Every time I look at my E89 I'm reminded BMW doesn’t build many roadsters like they used to. 12 years old and still looking like she just rolled off the showroom floor.
The E89 is the only car that can make you feel like a millionaire and a service advisor’s favorite customer in the same week.
E85 Radio Head Unit
Hey All,
I have an 03 z4 with the 676 audio option. I am looking for a replacement radio head unit as my cd player has stopped working. Does anyone have one they are selling in the US or have any recommendations on alternatives?
I tried to clean and take about the cd drive with no success.
Thanks !
G29 Seats
Recently picked up a low mileage 2022 Z4 and I absolutely love the car. The only minor issue I have with car are the seats. While the seats are very comfy, they are like heat sinks on my back. It is crazy ventilated seats are not an option on this car.
Curious if anyone has tried anything to get better ventilation/cooling on the back rest of the seats.
Need a soft top replacement
Anyone know any good aftermarket brands that sell a soft top that fits a 3.0si 2007? Price isn’t an issue. Just looking for a good replacement
Ultimate driving machine
Handles exactly like a RAV4 Toyota on gravel. /s
Two Car Solution!
In order to keep the miles off the E85, I scooped up this E46 323i touring with a manual to pull daily duty. Very convenient that it’s titansilber so there’s a bit of a theme going on here. It’s gonna haul parts better than the roadster that’s for sure!
Two Z4s are better than one.
The best car I have ever owned. I owned a M4 but nothing beats the handling and fun of a roadster. E85, E89, G29... outside of an Italian car these are the best!
E85 Starter Is Dying?
My 2004 BMW Z4 3.0I is having issues starting. Every once in a while, it will make a single "click" sound when I turn the key. This will happen 3-4 times before it turns over.
I read that it could either be a grounding cable that's going bad, or the starter. Does anyone have any knowledge on this?