BMW M5
Current gen (See guide)
The BMW M5 is one of the most celebrated performance sedans ever built, and across most of its history it delivers a strong ownership experience - but specific generations carry serious, expensive mechanical defects that can turn a dream car into a money pit.
- ReliabilityMixedYear-sensitive
- Ownership cost$$$Brand typical
- Insurance$$$Moderate
- Repair difficultyModerateDealer or indie
- Typical lifespanLong if maintainedHistory matters
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014
- Top failure
- E60 S85 V10 rod bearing failure (2006-2010), the most catastrophically expensive recurring defect across all M5 generati
- Recommended tire
- Michelin CrossClimate2
- Must check
- VIN recalls + PPI
Years to avoid
See the linked years-to-avoid guide for worst (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014) and best (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) model years.
- LayoutBMW M5
- CharacterSee guide
Engines
Which powertrains hold up — and which to walk away from.
- Year-dependent
See years-to-avoid guide
All
Reliability swings by model year — use the linked guide for the full map.
Transmissions
- Mixed
Automatic (typical)
Most years
Confirm service history and closed recalls on used examples.
Ownership metrics
- Top failure theme
- E60 S85 V10 rod bearing failure (2006-2010), the most catastrophically expensiveWorst-year cluster.
- Safer window
- 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023Best years in the guide.
- Must check
- Recalls + PPINon-negotiable.
Factory tire sizes
| Size | Years / trims | Best all-season | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| See owner's manual | Common OE Many trims |  All-weather tire pick. | Live prices |
Recommended tires
Recalls
Run NHTSA by VIN
Multiple
Always confirm open campaigns before purchase.
Check recalls
Maintenance
| Interval | Service |
|---|---|
| Pre-purchase | Full PPI + recall check |
| Per schedule | Factory-spec fluid service |
Should you buy one?
Prefer 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023. Approach 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014 with extra caution.