1998 BMW Z3 Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 2about this part
- Share
- 7%of 30 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 2 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1998 BMW Z3, 7% of the 30 complaints for this model year. 1 a fire, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“After approximately 15 minutes of driving a fire erupted from under the hood, no indicator lights displayed and no odor of raw fuel was apparent. Power to the vehicle ultimatley failed as well as the brakes. Wife able to stop the vehicle using the emergency brakes. Within minutes the motor and accouterments were charred to a crisp. The vehicle was totaled.”
NHTSA complaint #9003499, filed 2001-08“Bmw Z3 is a piece of crap. Dealer now thinks that there is underlying problem with vehicle. 3 cd players, 2 ignition systems, 1 fuel sensor, 1 engine that wouldn't start due to something stuck open and just general poor quality. I do not recommend this vehicle for anyone.”
NHTSA complaint #714824, filed 1999-11Related service bulletins
- 10037702Jun 1, 2010Bmw: when at lower speeds or stopping the engine idle dips too low because of a software problem.
Engine cooling: other model years
Other parts of the 1998 BMW Z3
8 complaintsElectrical system
6 complaintsSuspension
4 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
4 complaintsAir bags
3 complaintsEquipment
3 complaintsSeat belts
3 complaintsExterior lighting
2 complaintsBody and structure
2 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
2 complaintsFuel system
1 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1998 BMW Z3
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology