Hey, as stated above, I'm seriously considering a Z4 M Roadster (2006 to 2008). I'm really worried about maintenance and repair costs. I hate $800 surprises! Been there done that with a Porsche - not fun, and not popular with the wife! I understand a few repairs here and there, but if they pile up it ruins the fun of owning the car.

Should I be worried? What is some vanos issue I've heard about? What other weaknesses do they have?

On average what would be my annual repair and maintenance costs if I drive it about 10k to 12k a year? I want an exact number!!! JK

Can't decide if I should go this route or just be conservative and go get an S2000 or a 370Z Roadster. But I've driven the M and loved it!

Would love to hear opinions. Oh and by the way I really want a convertible. I know everyone loves the Z4M Coupe.

 

I had a 2006 Z4M Roadster that I traded for a 2010 528i this past January. The M was a lot of fun, I bought it back in 2009 with 34k on the clock and traded it in just as it was hitting 80k. At 52k I had to replace the clutch on it at a cost of around $1200 at the dealer. At 78k the dsc/abs/tire pressure light went off. I think it was a faulty sensor however I just ignored it as I was getting rid of the car anyways. The car was pretty solid for the most part other than those issues. The only other things were normal maintenance. I never did get the valves adjusted because I didn't think it was worth it for my purposes.

I can't speak towards the vanos issue. My average maintenance costs over the 3 year period were probably $800 a year not including tires.

Good luck!

 

I have 2007 z4m with just under 80k, so far no surprises, you will have to get the valves adjusted ($800-$1500) and the clutch will one day need to be replaced.
I have the stock clutch, had to replace the tie rods so far but that is from my own doing, the car is dropped pretty low.
I put right around 10k-12k a year on the car.
I would say annual repair and maintenance costs are less then $400
You just need to plan to spend the 2-5k once in its lifetime.

GET ONE!!!

My car

 

VANOS unit is pricey and the failure point is typically the hub shearing at the pump housing. There are ways around a new $3500 unit, however I have seen the Dr. VANOS $1500 dollar fix fail within a few thousand miles.

Most important thing to do is valve adjustment. While they do that, have them check the VANOS 10mm bolts for looseness/backing out. That is PREVENTATIVE maintenance on an S54.

Also the SMG is a bit harder on the driveline. I have seen failures on both 6 spd/SMG however SMG failures (VANOS, Differential bolts, etc) are far more likely on an SMG.

I would suggest a well maintained 6 speed and drive the car. They are pretty bulletproof.

Brakes, tires, worn suspension components can add up quick so you will want to factor that into your decision (depending upon purchase mileage, expected usage. history, etc.)