- Joined
- Feb 18, 2016
- Points
- 231
- Model of Z
- Z3M Imola and Z4 (e89)
New Member
- Thread starter Ray Brown
- Start date
Hi from Mansfield.
Hello Ray, welcome from Northants.
Hi Ray and welcome to the forum. Sounds like you have found a low mileage example.
With such low usage in recent years there are a few items which deteriorate just by standing and I would suggest you check. Apologies if you already know about these.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture and can cause corrosion so should be change periodically. BMW recommend every 2 years.
Tyres slowly release materials which keep the rubber flexible. Even if the tread is good check the age of the tyre (marked on the side wall) and if there are any cracks in the bottom of the treads. In the US there is guidance to replace tyres after 6 years irrespective of condition. I think this is based on a sunny and hot environment, and in the UK they may be OK for longer. If any doubts have them checked by somebody who knows what they are looking at.
Engine fluids should probably be on your list to be checked and changed if they haven't been done in recent years.
Look out for steering vibrations, which may indicate a seized brake caliper which can happen when a car is not used much.
Check rubber hoses on the engine cooling system for any cracks or deterioration. Also check the air intake hoses for cracks and splits which can cause erratic running. It is also worth checking the flexible rubber hoses on the braking system.
None of the above are particularly difficult or expensive to fix. and hopefully the previous owner or the garage will have been on top of maintenance and you will find everything is fine.
You have a lot of catching up to do, so enjoy getting out on the road and putting some miles on the clock.
With such low usage in recent years there are a few items which deteriorate just by standing and I would suggest you check. Apologies if you already know about these.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture and can cause corrosion so should be change periodically. BMW recommend every 2 years.
Tyres slowly release materials which keep the rubber flexible. Even if the tread is good check the age of the tyre (marked on the side wall) and if there are any cracks in the bottom of the treads. In the US there is guidance to replace tyres after 6 years irrespective of condition. I think this is based on a sunny and hot environment, and in the UK they may be OK for longer. If any doubts have them checked by somebody who knows what they are looking at.
Engine fluids should probably be on your list to be checked and changed if they haven't been done in recent years.
Look out for steering vibrations, which may indicate a seized brake caliper which can happen when a car is not used much.
Check rubber hoses on the engine cooling system for any cracks or deterioration. Also check the air intake hoses for cracks and splits which can cause erratic running. It is also worth checking the flexible rubber hoses on the braking system.
None of the above are particularly difficult or expensive to fix. and hopefully the previous owner or the garage will have been on top of maintenance and you will find everything is fine.
You have a lot of catching up to do, so enjoy getting out on the road and putting some miles on the clock.
from me 