2021 BMW Z4: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2021 BMW Z4: 5 recalls, 1 owner complaint and up to 28 mpg combined.
Recalls
5 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Fuel system Vehicle recall #20V700000 · 2020 · 49 vehicles
What's wrong: The weld between the fuel tank halves May have been insufficiently welded, causing the weld to fail.
Why it matters: The failed weld May allow fuel to leak, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
The fix: Bmw will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020.
Seat belts Vehicle recall #21V554000 · 2021 · 21,537 vehicles
What's wrong: The passenger seat belt automatic locking retractor (alr) May deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "occupant crash protection."
Why it matters: During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors (including the seat belts) and, if necessary, replace the retractors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021.
Engine Vehicle recall #21V598000 · 2021 · 50,024 vehicles
What's wrong: During engine start, the engine management software May cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
Why it matters: Loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021.
Electrical Vehicle recall #25V636000 · 2025 · 199,674 vehicles
What's wrong: The engine starter relay May corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Why it matters: A short circuit in the starter relay May increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 6, 2026.
Electrical Vehicle recall #26V056000 · 2026 · 87,394 vehicles
What's wrong: Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter May overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Why it matters: Fire increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2026.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Other / unknown (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2021 BMW Z4 has 1 owner complaints, ranking #18 of 21 Z4 model years for complaints (well below the 61 average). Neighboring years: 2020 (5 complaints, 6 recalls), 2022 (1 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S8) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 25 | 32 | 28 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2021 BMW Z4.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2021 BMW Z4 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 5 vehicle recalls for the 2021 BMW Z4. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2021 BMW Z4 problems?
Owners have filed 1 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are other / unknown (1).
What gas mileage does the 2021 BMW Z4 get?
EPA ratings run up to 28 mpg combined (2.0 L, Automatic (S8)), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2021 BMW Z4 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.