We'll forgive you for feeling a little daunted by what you've read over the past few pages about the V10-engined BMW M5s and M6s. There are, after all, many potentially expensive known problems.
That being said the cars remain incredibly exciting, as proven by the legions of loyal fans and its status as one of the M car legends. We certainly aren't going to see 8,000rpm+ V10s in the saloons again!
In this section we have a brief run through of the key inspection point when looking at one of these cars, a checklist of the major issues and bugbears that can arise. It's worth using more than just this page before committing to a purchase, though it should be useful to have in case anything slips your mind. As mentioned earlier in the guide, go in with your eyes open and well prepared to spend some money and the M5 can still prove an immensely rewarding purchase. Good luck!
Only use the correct Castrol Edge 10w-60 oil.
A rattle on start-up isn't unusual, but make sure it quietens down quickly.
Look at the VANOS pump and hose for any signs of deterioration.
Big end bearings can fail and ruin the engine. A replacement is £10,000.
Fuel economy can dip to 17mpg in normal driving.
The gearbox is never the smoothest, but watch for slow shifts that point to a failing SMG pump.
Clutch judder is most likely a worn bush and bearing rather than the clutch itself.
Rolling chassis
Brake discs are very pricey to replace at a main dealer, so look to specialists and original spec replacements without BMW branding.
Vibration through the steering is probably worn steering control arms.
Does the panoramic sunroof work properly if there's one fitted? Also, look for signs of water leaks.
The Touring's glass rear hatch can rattle and the release switch can fail.
Interior
Water in the boot well points to blocked rain channel drains.
Electric seat motors can fail.
I-Drive can be updated with newer software.
Tyre pressure monitor warning can flash up if wheels are kerbed or dinged.