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BMW · Luxury · 2005–2010

BMW M5 E60

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The BMW M5 E60 is available with one engine variant at 507 hp.

5.0L V10 · Benziner· 507 PS
2005 2010
Stay Away! 9 weaknesses

The BMW 5.0L V10 (Benziner, 507 PS) has the S85B50 (5.0L V10) — rated: "Stay Away!", 9 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖SMG hydraulic pump defective — most common E60 M5 issue

The SMG-III hydraulic pump fails regularly from around 100,000 km. Pump motor, clutch control valves and pressure accumulator are the most common failure points. Without hydraulic pressure no gear can be selected.

Symptoms: Yellow or red gear symbol, SMG pressure fault, pump audibly cycles more often than normal, gearbox no longer shifts.
from 100,000 km
Ad SMG Pumpe E60 M523427534423
 High
✖SMG release bearing and guide sleeve — seizure from dry running

Due to the higher clutch cycle count in SMG operation the release bearing lubrication is insufficient. Seizure occurs, sometimes missing factory lubrication.

Symptoms: Jerking when pulling away from a standstill, shuddering at low speeds, snatchy clutch engagement.
from 80,000 km
Ad SMG release bearing E6021521160200
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
136 complaints · 2005–2010
Airbags
67 ⚠ 5
Electrical
24 ⚠ 1
Powertrain
14 ⚠ 1
Engine
11
Lighting
9 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (67 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (24 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (14 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M5 E60 (2005–2010) — 9 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: S85B50 (5.0L V10). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Electronics, Interior.

M5 (S85B50, 2005–2010) — Stay Away!: Connecting rod bearings — critical wear issue, VANOS high-pressure pump — bearing failure, Throttle body actuators — plastic gears break. Power: 507 PS.

What to watch out for with the BMW M5? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the BMW M5 E60 have? +
The BMW M5 E60 has 9 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used BMW M5 E60? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the S85B50 (5.0L V10). Problem engine: S85B50 (5.0L V10) — stay away!
Which BMW M5 E60 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the BMW M5 E60 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} 507 hp V10 with manual gearbox — below 4,000 rpm a heavy 5 Series, above that the engine transforms into something BMW has never built again. The screaming at 7,500 rpm sounds like motorsport, because it is motorsport. Take the rod bearing issue seriously, oil analysis every 5,000 km. Those who look after it have the most emotional BMW experience ever offered in a saloon.
Is the BMW M5 E60 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the BMW M5 E60 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the BMW M5 E60? +
The BMW M5 E60 is available with engine variants from 507 to 507 hp. Petrol: S85B50 (5.0L V10).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee