BMW Z4 2009-2016

BMW Z4 2009-2016 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4 drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, differential, and driveshaft components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including key features, measurements, and technical details.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission type', 'differential ratio', or 'driveshaft length'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections listed below.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

6-speed manual / 7-speed DCT

Final Drive Ratio

3.23:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic)

Driveshaft Length

1,250 mm (49.2 in)

Maximum Torque Capacity

500 Nm (369 lb-ft)

Axle Ratio

3.23:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic)

Available Specifications

Transmission System

Details about the transmission system, including types, gear ratios, and technical specifications.

Manual Transmission

6-speed manual transmission available on sDrive28i and sDrive35i models
Gear ratios: 1st (4.110), 2nd (2.315), 3rd (1.542), 4th (1.178), 5th (1.000), 6th (0.846)
Final drive ratio: 3.23:1
Maximum torque capacity: 450 Nm (332 lb-ft)
Shift linkage type: Direct mechanical linkage

Automatic Transmission

7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) available on sDrive35is
Gear ratios: 1st (4.780), 2nd (2.933), 3rd (2.153), 4th (1.678), 5th (1.390), 6th (1.200), 7th (1.000)
Final drive ratio: 3.46:1
Maximum torque capacity: 500 Nm (369 lb-ft)
Shift mode: Sport and manual modes available

Note: The DCT transmission features launch control for optimized acceleration.

Differential System

Information about the differential system, including types, ratios, and performance characteristics.

Standard Differential

Open differential on base models
Final drive ratio: 3.23:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic)
Differential housing material: Aluminum alloy
Lubrication type: Synthetic gear oil

Limited-Slip Differential (Optional)

Electronically controlled limited-slip differential (eLSD) available on M Sport models
Final drive ratio: 3.46:1
Torque vectoring capability for improved cornering
Maximum torque bias: 70% to rear axle

Note: The eLSD is integrated with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system.

Driveshaft and Axles

Technical details about the driveshaft and axle components, including materials and dimensions.

Driveshaft

Two-piece carbon fiber driveshaft on sDrive35is models
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 in)
Maximum rotational speed: 8,500 rpm
Weight: 8.5 kg (18.7 lbs)

Rear Axle

Semi-trailing arm rear axle design
Axle shaft diameter: 32 mm (1.26 in)
Wheel hub material: Forged steel
Axle ratio: 3.23:1 (manual), 3.46:1 (automatic)

Transfer Case (xDrive Models)

Details about the transfer case system for xDrive all-wheel-drive models.

Transfer Case Specifications

Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch
Torque distribution: 40% front, 60% rear (default)
Maximum torque capacity: 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft)
Weight: 22 kg (48.5 lbs)

xDrive System Operation

Fully automatic torque distribution based on driving conditions
Integrated with DSC for stability control
Response time: <100 ms
Lubrication type: Synthetic oil

Note: The xDrive system is not available on all models; check specific vehicle configuration.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Transmission

Type: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.110:1
2nd: 2.315:1
3rd: 1.542:1
4th: 1.178:1
5th: 1.000:1
6th: 0.846:1
Reverse: 3.727:1

Fluid Type: BMW MTF-LT-2 (manual), BMW ATF-1 (automatic)

Fluid Capacity: 1.6 liters (manual), 7.2 liters (automatic)

Part Number: 23007541761 (manual), 23007541762 (automatic)

Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential (LSD)

Ratio: 3.23:1 (sDrive28i), 3.46:1 (sDrive35i)

Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XJ + FM booster

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters

Part Number: 33107541763

Drive Shaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer

Length: 1.5 meters

Torque Rating: 450 Nm

Part Number: 26107541764

Axles

Type: Half-shafts with CV joints

Torque Rating: 500 Nm

Boot Material: Thermoplastic

Part Number: 33207541765

Clutch

Type: Single-disc dry clutch (manual), Multi-disc wet clutch (DCT)

Torque Capacity: 350 Nm (manual), 450 Nm (DCT)

Wear Limit: 2 mm

Part Number: 21207541766 (manual), 21207541767 (DCT)

Transfer Case

Type: Not applicable (rear-wheel drive only)

Note: The BMW Z4 (2009-2016) is exclusively rear-wheel drive.

Propeller Shaft

Material: Aluminum

Length: 1.2 meters

Torque Rating: 400 Nm

Part Number: 26107541768

Mounts

Engine Mount: Material: Hydraulic rubber
Torque Rating: 300 Nm
Part Number: 22117541769

Transmission Mount: Material: Hydraulic rubber
Torque Rating: 250 Nm
Part Number: 22117541770

Operational Limits

Max Torque: 450 Nm

Max Speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited)

Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Diagnostics

Fault Codes

P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0730: Incorrect Gear Ratio
P1700: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Diagnostic Tool: BMW ISTA/D

Note: Use BMW-specific diagnostic software for accurate fault code reading and clearing.

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

30,000 miles

24 months

Inspect transmission fluid level and condition
Check differential fluid level
Inspect drive shaft and axle boots for wear or damage

Replace fluids if contamination or degradation is detected.

60,000 miles

48 months

Replace transmission fluid (automatic only)
Replace differential fluid
Inspect clutch wear (manual transmission)

Follow BMW-recommended fluid specifications.

100,000 miles

84 months

Replace clutch assembly (manual transmission)
Inspect and replace drive shaft if necessary
Check and replace engine and transmission mounts if worn

Perform a full drivetrain inspection at this interval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2009-2016 BMW Z4 use?

The 2009-2016 BMW Z4 is available with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (xDrive) configurations, depending on the model and trim. The RWD models use a traditional rear-wheel drivetrain, while xDrive models feature BMW's intelligent all-wheel drive system, which dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction.

What is the transmission type for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4?

The 2009-2016 BMW Z4 is equipped with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), depending on the model. The DCT offers faster gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency, while the manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience.

What is the differential type used in the 2009-2016 BMW Z4?

The 2009-2016 BMW Z4 uses an open differential for standard models and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential (LSD) for high-performance variants like the Z4 sDrive35is. The LSD improves traction and stability during aggressive cornering by reducing wheel spin.

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain in the 2009-2016 BMW Z4?

The torque capacity of the drivetrain varies by engine and model. For example, the Z4 sDrive35is with the N54 twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine produces up to 332 lb-ft of torque, which is efficiently managed by the 7-speed DCT or 6-speed manual transmission.

How often should the drivetrain components be inspected?

BMW recommends inspecting drivetrain components, including the transmission, differential, and driveshaft, every 30,000 miles or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Regular inspections help identify wear and tear, leaks, or damage early, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW Z4 Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components of the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including inspection intervals, lubrication requirements, and common issues.

BMW xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

An in-depth explanation of BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system, including its operation, benefits, and maintenance tips for the 2009-2016 Z4 xDrive models.

BMW Z4 Transmission Fluid Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the transmission fluid in the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including fluid specifications and safety precautions.

BMW Z4 Differential Service Manual

Coming Soon

A comprehensive manual for servicing the differential in the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, covering inspection, lubrication, and repair procedures.

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