Are you searching for a convertible Z3 window replacement? The good news is the zipper-slider design of the BMW Z3 rear window allows for an easy do it yourself replacement! The Z3 window also fits all trims of the BMW Z3 produced from 1996 – 2002, so it’s a one size fits all kinda deal. Simple right?
Now it’s time to narrow down your options. If you already searched around you know there are two options for the replacement window: a true rubber bead trim just like the original factory window and a cheaper fabric trim option.
Which option should you go with? We’re going to cover the differences between these two trim options next!
Premium Rubber Bead Z3 Window
This window is manufactured in Germany using high-quality materials. Every window is machine cut and machine stitched to exactly the same size and specifications. This is the window we sell. The premium rubber bead window does not require glue to make a waterproof seal. Instead, the installation kit includes double-sided tape so there’s no mess! This window is available in 3 tint options: clear, green and black. You’ll love the way your Z3 looks with this high-quality replacement window! [ico_arrow]Buy the premium Z3 window here now.[/ico_arrow]
Additional photos. Click image to view larger photo:
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Fabric Trim Z3 Window
This window is manufactured in the US. It’s a good budget option as long as you don’t expect a high-quality product. The process of making this window is what reflects its poor quality. The plastic vinyl is marked with a sharpie marker, hand cut with scissors, and then the fabric trim is hand-stitched using a machine. Since each window is made by a human there’s a huge variance from window to window. This results in poor quality. Because the vinyl plastic is cut by scissors there are jagged edges around the window. Sometimes too much plastic sticks out past the fabric trim. There are loose threads still hanging from the stitching and the stitching around the outside of the plastic is uneven since it’s fed into the machine by hand. These are cheap windows and there seems to be no quality control in place. Below are some examples of what we’ve received from the manufacturer for resale. For these reasons, we have discontinued selling this window.
Additional photos. Coming soon!
Must Know Before You Purchase the Replacement Window
Make sure you see a zipper from the inside of your car before you purchase the replacement window. This is very rare, but if you or a previous owner of your z3 replaced the entire convertible top with an aftermarket top, then your rear window is permanently stitched into the top. In this case, you may need to replace the entire top or have an upholstery shop stitch in new plastic vinyl. Like I said, this is very rare, but worth double checking before you make the purchase!