BMW · Known Issues

2010 BMW M5 Problems: 3 Known Issues

2010 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2010 BMW M5 has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5 ($6,500-$32,000 repair) and VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85) ($3,000-$32,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $1,500 to $32,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

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All 3 Known Issues

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On the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85, the 5.0L S85 V10 in the E60 M5 is well known for premature connecting-rod bearing wear. Wear can start at roughly 80,000 km (about 50,000 miles). The usual explanation is that there is very little clearance between the rod bearings and the crankshaft journals, and that tight fit, combined with how hard this high-revving engine is run, makes the bearings wear faster. The original oil-change intervals are also widely considered too long for these conditions, which makes the problem worse. If nothing is done, worn bearings can lead to catastrophic engine failure. For that reason, specialists and owners widely recommend replacing the rod bearings as preventive maintenance rather than waiting for symptoms. BimmerWorld, which sells S85 bearing kits, calls the job "a fact of life" for E60 M5 and E63 M6 owners. BMW has not issued a recall for this.

This issue also affects: BMW M3, BMW M4, BMW M6

Common Symptoms

Ticking or knocking noise from engine, especially when cold
Metal shavings or metallic debris in engine oil during oil changes
Low oil pressure warning light
Increased engine vibration and noise under load
Catastrophic engine failure (seized engine or hole in block)

How to Fix

Check first: have the oil analyzed and look for metal debris in the oil and filter at every change. Listen for a ticking or knocking noise from the engine, especially when it is cold, and watch for a low oil pressure warning. If you hear knocking or find metal, have the engine inspected before driving it further. Preventive fix: replace the rod bearings before symptoms appear. Many owners plan the job around the mileage where wear typically starts (about 50,000 miles). Complete kits are sold for the S85. For example, BimmerWorld's overhaul kit costs $1,489.99 to $1,689.99 for parts only. It is sold for experienced DIY replacement, so shop labor would be extra. The kit includes 10 upper and 10 lower rod bearing shells (Genuine BMW bearings with WPC micro-polishing), 20 new rod bearing bolts, an oil pan gasket, the oil return tube O-ring, electric oil pump gaskets, power steering hose crush rings and assembly lube. You can also choose oil (BMW 10W-60 or Red Line 15W-50) with an OEM filter. Ongoing care: change the oil more often than the original factory interval, and let the engine reach full operating temperature before using high RPM. The VANOS solenoids and high-pressure oil lines also degrade with age, so many owners have the VANOS line handled during the same job. Coverage: there is no recall, and these cars are well past their original warranty, so the owner pays for this.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

FCP Euro comprehensive S85 rod-bearing replacement kit 11247841703KT2
OEM11247841703
Complete engine-specific rod-bearing service kit. Fitment: 2006-2010 BMW E60 M5 S85 and listed S85 M6 applications; professional engine-builder measurement and installation required.
FCP Euro
Blackstone Laboratories oil-analysis sample kit
It cannot confirm or exclude rod-bearing wear by itself..
Blackstone Labs

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Typical repair cost:$6,500 - $32,000

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Community Reported

Medium ConfidenceVerifiedUpdated Nov 7, 2026

On the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85, the S85 V10 uses a high-pressure VANOS pump to supply the oil pressure that moves the variable valve timing units. The pump works at about 115 bar. The high-pressure VANOS oil lines can leak at the fittings where the rigid metal pipe ends join the flexible hose section. A leak loses oil and lowers the pressure available to the VANOS system, and a parts seller warns this can lead to very expensive engine damage. BMW issued a service bulletin (SIB 11 10 05) to replace the VANOS high-pressure line on M5s produced up to 11/22/05. Buyer guides report that a failed line can starve the pump of pressure, which can cause the pump to fail and send metal debris through the engine. How much the repair costs depends on whether that debris has contaminated the rest of the engine. Low VANOS system pressure is the telltale sign of a leaking line.

This issue also affects: BMW 1 Series, BMW M2, BMW M3

Common Symptoms

Rough idling and unstable idle speed
Reduced power output and poor acceleration
Poor fuel economy
Rattling or grinding noise from engine bay at startup
Oil leaks visible near front of engine (VANOS area)
Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes

How to Fix

Check first: look for oil leaks around the VANOS lines at the front of the engine, and have a shop check VANOS system pressure. Low pressure points to a leaking line. On early cars (built up to 11/22/05), check the service records for the SIB 11 10 05 line replacement, and ask any seller for records of VANOS line inspection or replacement. Fix: replace the leaking line with the current genuine BMW part. 11 36 7 838 670 is the pressure hose that runs from the pressure accumulator to the VANOS units. 11 36 7 838 669 is the hose that runs from the high-pressure oil pump to the other pressure hose. When you replace a line, also replace the crush washers at each end (4 in total) and, on the 838 669 hose, the O-ring at the top. The banjo bolts are cheap and optional. Getting to the 838 669 hose means removing the oil pan, so it is often replaced at the same time as the rod bearings. If the pump has failed and shed metal debris, the rest of the engine needs to be checked for contamination. Fix a known VANOS line leak promptly rather than driving on it. A published buyer guide puts VANOS high-pressure pump failure at $3,000 to $32,000, depending on whether debris has contaminated the rest of the engine.

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What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

Genuine BMW S85 VANOS oil line 11367838669
OEM11367838669
The retailer specifies four 07119963129 copper washers and one 11367834552 O-ring as additional required items; verify VIN and the exact failed line..
RM European

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Typical repair cost:$3,000 - $32,000

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Community Reported

Medium ConfidenceVerifiedUpdated Nov 7, 2026

On the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85, the S85 V10 uses individual electronic throttle actuators for each cylinder bank to control throttle response. These actuators have a design flaw: their internal plastic gears wear prematurely. The gears wear most in the low-throttle area (just off idle, cruising position), eventually causing complete failure. When one or both actuators fail, the engine immediately enters limp mode with severely reduced power output - car is barely driveable. Both actuators often need replacement within similar timeframes (if one fails, the other typically fails within 6-12 months). M5Board reports this as an extremely common issue on high-mileage E60 M5s.

This issue also affects: BMW M6

Common Symptoms

Engine suddenly enters limp mode with drastically reduced power
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) warning light illuminated
EML (Engine Management Light) illuminated
Car starts fine when cold but enters limp mode after warming up
Fault codes 2B15 (throttle bank 1) or 2B16 (throttle bank 2)

How to Fix

Replace failed throttle actuator(s) with OEM units ($1,400-$1,700 each) or upgrade to Evolve Automotive uprated throttle actuators ($1,500-$1,800 each) for improved durability and increased lifespan - these have upgraded internal components that prevent repeat failure. ECU Testing and Euro Power Motorsports offer actuator rebuilds ($500-$800 per actuator) as cost-effective alternatives. M5Post consensus: when one actuator fails, replace both at the same time to save labor costs, since the second often fails within 6-12 months. Labor: 3 hours professional / 4+ hours DIY.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

Beisan BS102 S65/S85 throttle-actuator gear rebuild service
Cross-refBS102, 13627838085, 13627834494
Original actuator mechanical rebuild service. Fitment: 2006-2010 E60 M5 S85 actuator whose electronics and housing are eligible for rebuild.
Beisan Systems

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Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $3,500

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Community Reported

Medium ConfidenceVerifiedUpdated Oct 27, 2026

NHTSA Recalls2 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.

Campaign #12V12600026/03/2012

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housing of the connector resulting in an intermittent or permanent loss of functionality of one or more rear lamp functions (tail, brake, turn-signal, reverse).

Campaign #13V40700011/09/2013

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW M5 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2010 BMW M5 has 3 documented issues. Documented issues include: S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5, VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85), S85 V10 Throttle Body Actuator Failure - E60 M5. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the BMW M5 reliable?

The 2010 BMW M5 has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5 and VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common BMW M5 problems?

Repair costs for known BMW M5 issues range from $1,500 to $32,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5, typically costs $6,500-$32,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5?

The 5.0L S85 V10 in the E60 M5 is well known for premature connecting-rod bearing wear. Wear can start at roughly 80,000 km (about 50,000 miles). The usual explanation is that there is very little clearance between the rod bearings and the crankshaft journals, and that tight fit,… Repairs typically run $6,500-$32,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85)?

The S85 V10 uses a high-pressure VANOS pump to supply the oil pressure that moves the variable valve timing units. The pump works at about 115 bar. The high-pressure VANOS oil lines can leak at the fittings where the rigid metal pipe ends join the flexible hose section. A leak lo… Repairs typically run $3,000-$32,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85 V10 Throttle Body Actuator Failure - E60 M5?

The S85 V10 uses individual electronic throttle actuators for each cylinder bank to control throttle response. These actuators have a design flaw: their internal plastic gears wear prematurely. The gears wear most in the low-throttle area (just off idle, cruising position), event… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

2010 BMW M5 Problems: 3 Known Issues

All 3 Known Issues

2006-2010 BMW M5: S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Research This Issue

2006-2010 BMW M5: VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Research This Issue

2006-2010 BMW M5: S85 V10 Throttle Body Actuator Failure - E60 M5#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Research This Issue

Other BMW Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW M5 problems?

Is the BMW M5 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common BMW M5 problems?

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85 V10 Premature Rod Bearing Wear That Can Lead to Engine Failure - E60 M5?

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 VANOS High-Pressure Oil Line Leaks Can Starve and Damage the VANOS Pump - E60 M5 (S85)?

What is the 2006-2010 BMW M5 S85 V10 Throttle Body Actuator Failure - E60 M5?