E60/61 M5. why change the flywheel when clutch is worn?

[ecain63]

Been researching the facts about M5 clutches recently and a question has cropped up that I have no answer to. Actually two questions!

Firstly: Why do we change the flywheel at the same time as the clutch on the M5? I've had plenty of cars in the past and in my experience the flywheels have not needed replacing until at least 3 or 4 clutches have been worn through. Anyone who has seen an M5 flywheel will see my point when I say it looks like a large anti-tank mine and is just as heavy duty. Can it only last the life of 1 clutch?

The second question is: Why do we need to change the clutch? I was under the impression that the later clutches (made by Sachs) are 3 plate carbon jobs that in theory should outlive the car its fitted to. Again, these clutches are not small either and given the low levels of torque produced by the V10 at low revs should be very under-stressed. Anybody got any info?

Thirdly (lol): If the computer that controls the SMG is so super duper fantastic (especially the latest SMG3 boxes) why do we get clutch wear at all? Let alone worse than most foot operated manual cars?

I can understand the release bearings are often a clutch killer when they go dry. If they get greased regularly will this prolong the life of a clutch? I know there will be comments about Lambo's only getting 5k out of a clutch and telling me to just accept it, but I do have a point don't I?

Eddie

[DeanR32]

You do make a good point mate. I thought a clutch for such a car would be a bit more robust than it is. Also i must say a clutch does seem steep, even for a BMW! I'd actually look for a car thats had one done early in its life if thats possible

[ecain63]

I don't think there is any rhyme or reason for clutch failure though, other than excessive use of LC. Pampered cars (only 05's and 06's at the mo) are having clutches changed around 30 to 50k. Yet some harder working ones are ranging from 5k right up to 90k+. I spoke to my dealer yesterday and he said they have only done 1 car so far that's been newer than an 07 plater (SMG3).

[berry100]

Dunno the answers, but my previous E60 M5 had the clutch and flywheel done at around 40k...was a 55 plate, so maybe the later models have upgraded clutch as you say...

Was all done under warranty though after a good battle by the dealer with BMW GB.....

[Dave 321]

BMW recommend that it is replaced with the clutch, it is probably to increase the longevity of the clutch incase of uneven wear or deposits on the flywheel.