Z3: Subframe, What to Look For?

[Bmwcat]

What do I look for in the subframe problem for Z3's? Will a AAA inspection catch it? Is there an obvious noise to listen for? So far I dont hear anything out of the ordinary for a Roadster. Cheers--Mark :)

[blairrm]

You dont want to listen for something...by then it's in bad shape.

Visual inspection takes a couple of minutes..

Remove trunk floor carpet and the tool trays either side of the battery (M's).

Locate the two rows of spot welds running across the trunk floor (just in front of the battery box).

The paint/etc should be in good shape, no rust or damage to the welds.

Then jack up the rear of the car and again take a look at the same welds from below.

Then take a good look at the central differential mount. look for cracks or other damage.

Last check the rear sway bar mounts as they can part company.

[CH2.0]

Is there a way to check the spot welds on the coupe? I read that there's insulation or something on the sheet metal.

[Randy Forbes]

Is there a way to check the spot welds on the coupe? I read that there's insulation or something on the sheet metal.A bit more difficult to see anything from the inside, as the damage would have to be fairly advanced to detect.

Best to get under the Coupe and inspect the areas mentioned by blairrm above

Here's a couple links to what could be considered pretty advanced damage in the case of each, a Coupe http://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album55 and a Rdstr http://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album67
Follow through from the begining of the album(s) to the last page to see how the work progresses.

[Bmwcat]

Thanks, all. I may have a mechanic look at it. I dont feel too safe with this lil jack in the trunk. The vehicle has 89K on it, no weird noises yet (except from the driver.) :p

[Bmwcat]

A bit more difficult to see anything from the inside, as the damage would have to be fairly advanced to detect.

Best to get under the Coupe and inspect the areas mentioned by blairrm above

Here's a couple links to what could be considered pretty advanced damage in the case of each, a Coupe http://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album55 and a Rdstr http://www.rfdm.com/gallery/album67
Follow through from the begining of the album(s) to the last page to see how the work progresses.
Randy F: Those pictures are AMAZING. I'll check my new baby out this weekend. :thumbup: