REDLINE ALLEYBMW M5 F10 buying guide
2011 to 2017. An F10 M5 suits a buyer who wants a huge performance sedan and will budget for an extended warranty or specialist care.
Big jobs
- Rod bearings and oil pump recall. Rare rod bearing failures are reported, mostly on 2012 and 2013 cars, and a recall covered the oil pump on 2013 cars. An engine can cost over 30,000 pounds.
- Fuel pump, injectors, coils and power warning. The high pressure fuel pump can fail with long starting, coils and plugs fail, and a Maximum power not available warning with shudder has been blamed on fuel, sensors or leaking injectors.
- DCT, rear diff and driveshaft recall. Hard launches wear the clutch packs, the rear diff can leak and its mounts can crack, and a recall covered driveshafts on cars built September to December 2014.
Workshop jobs
- Turbo coolant pipes. Four turbo coolant pipes can leak; a repair kit is an easy fix.
Small jobs
- Oil use. About a litre every 1,500 miles is normal for the S63, so the level needs watching.
- Battery drain. Battery discharge is blamed on battery fans or headlamps staying on, and BMW at one point advised a new battery at every oil change.
Questions for the seller
- Has the oil pump recall been done?
- How often has the oil been changed?
- Have the DCT and rear diff fluids been changed?
- Has it had launch control use or track days?
- Is any warranty left, or is an extended warranty possible?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.