BMW Z3 Oil Pressure Warning: Seeking Diagnosis & Help

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2004 BMW Z4 last year. The oil pressure warning light kept flashing, and I noticed that grinding noise, especially during cold starts. Turned out the oil pump was failing, the internal components were worn out and couldn't maintain proper pressure. Had to get the oil pump replaced along with the pickup tube and screen since there was some debris buildup. It was definitely a serious repair that couldn't wait, as low oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine damage if ignored. The pump failure was gradually destroying my engine bearings. The repair took about two days at the shop. While they had it open, they also found some metal particles in the oil pan, which they cleaned out. This kind of issue really needs proper diagnosis and repair by someone who knows BMWs well, it's not something you want to postpone. If your symptoms match what I experienced, I'd recommend getting it checked soon to prevent any major engine damage.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience! That sounds exactly like what's happening with my Z3. The symptoms are identical, especially that grinding noise during cold starts. Glad I asked here before taking it somewhere, at least now I know what I might be dealing with. Just curious, do you remember roughly what you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, have you had any other issues pop up since getting it fixed? Really appreciate the help! Sam

Hey Sam! Just wanted to follow up, I actually took my Z4 to the mechanic right after seeing your first post since our issues sounded so similar. You'll be glad to know they fixed the low oil pressure problem completely. It was indeed the oil pump that was shot, just like I suspected from my previous experience. The total bill came to 755 € for replacing the defective oil pump. I know it's not cheap, but honestly, it was worth every penny. The engine's running smooth as silk now, no more grinding noises during those cold morning starts, and the warning light hasn't flashed once since the repair. To answer your question about other issues, nope, haven't had a single problem since getting it fixed. The car feels like new again. If you're experiencing the same symptoms, I'd definitely recommend getting it looked at sooner rather than later. These BMW engines are solid, but they need proper oil pressure to stay healthy. Let me know how it goes with yours!

Thanks again for all your help! Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to update you. You were spot on, it was the oil pump causing all the trouble. Mine actually cost a bit more, around 850 €, since they found some additional wear in the bearings that needed attention. The whole repair took three days, but wow, what a difference! The engine's purring like a kitten now, and that awful grinding noise is completely gone. They also did a full oil flush to clear out any metal debris, just to be on the safe side. Really glad I didn't wait any longer to get it fixed. The mechanic said I caught it just in time before it could cause any serious engine damage. Can't believe how much better the car runs now, feels almost like when I first got it! Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction. Definitely saved me from a potential disaster there!