Re: Z8 Owners unite to address BMW problem (archive)

I have had a Z8 since last June. The rear window is opaque except for about 1/4 inch all around the outside, which is clear. BMW have said that the opaqueness (new word perhaps!!) is deliberate and meant to be just like this!!!

My dealer said this isnt supposed to be and if this happens with mine, they will replace the rear window at no charge to me

The interior finish, especially the aluminium trim, scratches so easy it is unbelievable. BMW say this is the way it is........

yep- but thats the complaint on most cars aluminum finishes. I expected this so it doesnt really bother me.

The fitted telephone, in my case here in the UK is the Motorola Startac. It is truly horrible as a hands free kit. Sometimes it doesnt' work, sometimes turns itself off without warning, sometimes the audio doesn't work. Again BMW show little interest.

I have the USA startac and it works very well- this is likely a problem with the service provider in your area. If your phone fails when disconnected from the car, the dealer really should remedy this.

A further fault is a Pinging noise off of idle, I believe where the mixture is going too lean? BMW say this is normal.

This is the dreaded "VANOS noise" problem- many of the M5/Z8 engines have this problem. From what I read, its not something that will hurt the engine but it is annoying and BMW should have figured something out before releasing the engines or come up with a fix after the fact.

The problem we have is that BMW know theyt can sell these cars, and are even happy to give you your money back. How exactly can you win the argument?

I think you and Thomas are pretty much right. The way I handle these things is by thinking about reasonability. Is it reasonable that an aluminum interior would show scratches? yes. So I decide thats not going to bother me. Is it reasonable for a limited edition sports car to have some quirks (phone, etc)? I say yes- you might say not for those dollars- but I would say your expectations are unrealistic- these things all have quirks, Ferrari, Aston, whatever.

To me the biggest issue is the rear window- this is a safety issue- that would bother me- but since Ive addressed it to my satisfaction, it doesnt.

So to sum it up- I think you win the argument by deciding whats important and realistic to argue over with the dealer.

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