Hello,

I have a 1998 1.9 E36/M44 Z3 in cosmos black pre facelift. I have been looking for several body panels and a camshaft position sensor.

BMW have quoted over £200 for the sensor. Could anyone advise on the best OEM manufacturer that actually works on BMWs. I am also struggling to get hold of body panels for my restoration.

I am thinking it may be better to just get rid as parts seem to be really difficult to get hold of.

Hi Adrian

Welcome to the Forum

Start us off with the easy questions Eh ??? Delphi manufacture many equivalent parts at sensible cost, try Euro Car Parts as you have the part number even the well known Auction site may help.

Don't know if you are aware of www.realoem.com its an online BMW parts list put the last 7 digits of your Vin into the search box it will bring up your model. You should be able to get part numbers for panels then Google is your friend, Ebay Euro Car Parts etc. The Americans loved the Z3 so you may find panels there, here it may be pattern parts or may be panels from BMW Specialist Recycler's 

I have used Quarry Motors before and found them really helpful.

Dave

PS. just had a quick look on Ebay Delfi sensors are about £30

Thanks Dave

I have been searching these sites for panels I guess I will just keep searching until something turns up. I have seen Delphi have you had experience or know of anybody who has that they work on z3 I keep hearing that it's a bit hit and miss with non original brands on sensors. 

Thanks for your response

Adrian 

Morning Adrian

All cars reach an age where OEM Parts (BMW) and their often exorbitant pricing (someone has to pay for the "free" coffee while you wait) becomes uneconomic. The answer is all Marques including BMW do not make their own components such as alternators, starter motors, aircon compressors, switch gear, sensors, audio equipment, suspension parts and bushes the list is endless. Yes BMW specify the functionality and duty cycle but they buy parts in from several sources for each part to ensure continuity of supply and because they specify that their logo and part number on them or the box we pay, oh do we pay (not just BMW). There are many many component manufacturers who supply original parts to all manufacturers but also supply the aftermarket as well, basically same part but no part number logo or expensive box.

Remember Tom Hanks speech in Apollo 13 just before launch he says something like " here we are sat on top of $50m worth of equipment all supplied by the lowest bidder" makes you think. 

Delphi are a world wide supplier so their stuff is well recognized in the motor trade. I have used Delphi stuff in the past with no issues but not on the BMW, the last time was our sons abused Toyota Pickup pressure sensors and lift pump. So unless you are obsessed with originality in your restoration (always admired but at a cost) or whether you are happy with a solid usable classic is a question only you can answer. Me I would have a usable classic every day.

My own E53 4.6is is getting there, just over 800 were registered in the UK just under 400 left. I use it every day, it tows a horse trailer and is used off road in the shooting season.  I have completely rebuilt the suspension all with "non original" bushes and parts at a fraction of the OEM cost. I have fitted several "non OEM" engine parts such as Throttle body, aircon compressor Vanos solenoids with no ill effects on the car but several significant benefits to my wallet.

This year I need to sort the paint work (it is 17 years old) and sadly there isn't any way you can save money there unless you own a body shop.

Dave

  

Thanks Dave.

I dont mind using non BMW parts I am just trying to gauge which is a good reliable option. Delphi maybe the one.

Thanks Adrian