Common Problems with the
2019–2024 BMW M5

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2019–2024 BMW M5. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 2019–2024 period has 2 more issues than the BMW M5 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

SMG / DCT / Transmission Heat Stress

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Fast M5s punish transmissions. E60 SMG hydraulic components, F10 DCT heat stress, and even later automatic driveline components all suffer if the car has been launched repeatedly.

Most affected: E60/E61 M5, F10 M5, F90 M5

Estimated cost: £500–£5,000Affects: 2005–2024Often appears around: 40k–90k miles on hard-used cars

Typical symptoms

•Jerky low-speed shifts
•Delayed engagement when hot
•Drivetrain warning messages

What to inspect before you buy

✓Drive the car long enough for gearbox temperature to rise
✓Check for transmission fluid service evidence

Coolant / Turbo Cooling Leaks

ModerateCooling System

Turbocharged M5s can develop coolant leaks around expansion tanks, turbo cooling lines, and front heat exchangers. Repeated low-coolant warnings are common on neglected cars.

Most affected: F10 M5, F90 M5

Estimated cost: £150–£1,200Affects: 2011–2024Often appears around: 25k–70k miles

Typical symptoms

•Coolant smell after fast driving
•Low coolant alerts without obvious overheating

What to inspect before you buy

✓Inspect the front coolers and expansion tank seam
✓Look for coolant residue under the belly pan

Buying Tips for the 2019 BMW M5

✓Do not buy an M5 on a tight budget: tyres, brakes, clutches, and suspension parts are all expensive
✓Check that oil services were frequent and specialist-led rather than stretched to dashboard intervals
✓Listen for top-end noise, VANOS rattle, rod-bearing chatter, or turbo heat-related issues
✓Test every electronic comfort feature because weak batteries and module faults cause chaos on older M5s

2018 BMW M5