M Buyers Guide
Inspection checklist
M5 E60, 2006 to 2010
Before you go
- Open recalls. Run the VIN through NHTSA or a BMW dealer and ask for proof every recall was done.
- History report. Check the title, accidents, owners and mileage record.
- Service records. Ask for them in advance, ideally from a BMW dealer or specialist.
- Independent inspection. Book a pre-purchase inspection with a shop that knows this engine.
Known problems on this car
- Rod bearing wear about $5,000 to fix
Ask for receipts showing when the bearings were replaced and at what mileage. Without them, budget for the job, and listen for a knock.
- SMG hydraulic pump about $2,500 to fix
On SMG cars, check that shifts are clean and ask about the pump and the clutch wear reading.
- VANOS pump and solenoids about $4,000 to fix
Look for VANOS work in the records, and check for warning lights and a rough idle.
- Cooling system aging about $1,000 to fix
Look for a cooling system refresh in the records, and check for coolant smell or dried residue around the hoses and tank.
- Throttle actuator failure about $900 to fix
Check for an engine warning light or limp mode, and look for actuator work in the records.
- Passenger seat occupancy mat about $2,000 to fix
With an adult in the passenger seat, check that no restraint system warning appears and the passenger air bag off light goes out. If a warning shows, ask a BMW dealer to check the VIN for any remaining warranty cover and price the repair into your offer.
At the viewing
- Receipts for rod bearings with the date and mileage, rebuilt or replaced throttle actuators, VANOS work, and on SMG cars the pump and clutch.
- A cold start with no knock.
- A complete service history.
- With an adult in the passenger seat, no passenger restraint warning (a failed seat mat switches that air bag off).
Notes
From the M5 E60 guide at M Buyers Guide. Repair costs are the guide's estimates, not quotes; the guide says where each comes from. Problems and costs as of the date printed.