First German car - 2001 Z3 2.5

Joined
Mar 18, 2026
Points
3
Hello everyone, super excited that I bought a 2001 Z3 2.5 in Sterling gray with the sport package, 140k miles, and manual. I've had a few cars, most recently a '93 Civic DX coupe, manual. I'm 21, so I figure I can deal with the impracticality for a while and enjoy the roadster experience. I also have a 2004 Yamaha FZ6, so when the Z3 is in the shop, I still have a way to get around. I left 1k in my budget to account for maintenance. Oil change, coolant flush, and brake flush, I can do no prob. But suspension bushings and valve cover gasket may be something I need a shop to do. What do you guys recommend as other good maintenance? I know the coolant expansion tank and other coolant components start to crack around this mileage.
IMG_7785.jpeg
 

ExMX5owner

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Australian Zeds
Joined
Aug 31, 2022
Points
139
Location
Queensland, Australia
Model of Z
99 2.0
Welcome aboard..
 

Shelly

Zorg Expert (I)
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British Zeds
East Anglian Crew
Joined
Jul 9, 2013
Points
201
Location
Norfolk
Model of Z
Z4 2.0 20i M Sport sDrive

Gatsoburner

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British Zeds
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Dec 16, 2025
Points
53
Location
North West of UK
Model of Z
3.0i
Welcome. Where you located??

Water issues, going where it shouldn't seems popular on the Z3. Worth checking floors for dampness etc from footwell to boot...
 
Joined
Mar 18, 2026
Points
3
Welcome. Where you located??

Water issues, going where it shouldn't seems popular on the Z3. Worth checking floors for dampness etc from footwell to boot...
Live in Florida. The top has been replaced recently, and there wasn't any sign of water where the battery is at, and same for the footwells. We'll see when the rain starting coming more often.
 

Mint

Zorg Expert (I)
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British Zeds
East Anglian Crew
Joined
Sep 23, 2012
Points
222
Location
Stafford
Model of Z
2.2 Sport Individual
Hi Michael and :welcome: to the forum from me too in Stafford, England.
 
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