When checking the interior of the M5 and M6, the first place to start is the boot. Lift the carpet to inspect the spare wheel well for any signs of water or damp. Blocked rain channels overflow and the water collects in the wheel well. Any moisture will need to be dried out immediately to avoid problems with the electrics. Moving into the main cabin, there's a lot of leather on the seats and trim that needs to be checked over for condition and suppleness. Aside from the usual driver's seat bolster wear, check the electric adjustment works properly and smoothly. Some cars will have the Active front seats that pump up the side bolsters as you corner to help keep you in place. Most owners don't rate them and leave them switched off.
Don't be distracted - there are electrics to check!
Next up is the iDrive system. It's a good infotainment set-up, if a little dated by today's standards. Updating it is possible by having the system reprogrammed with the latest software.
Then you need to look at the dash for warning lights and messages on start up. The tyre pressure monitoring system can flash up, even when the pressures are all correct. This can be down to a kerbed wheel or faulty sensor. Also look for any transmission warning lights which will spell a visit to a specialist for further inspection. Often, this can be something as simple as a broken wire, but it can also be caused by more serious issues with the likes of the SMG pump or clutch.
The large boot of the saloon and estate M5 models make them very easy to live with and the M6's cargo hold is also more than big enough to justify its grand tourer credentials. Just watch for scuffs on the bumper that will be pricey to put right.
PHer's view:
"Our Touring has been to Scotland, Chamonix and carries the dog. It's that practical yet it can see off almost anything else. If only it didn't cost a bloody fortune to run."
Heather Creasey