Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. BMW
  6. /
  7. M5
BMW · Known Issues

2021 BMW M5 Problems: 3 Known Issues

2021 model year · 200+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2021 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 200+ owner reports, the 2021 BMW M5 has 3 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is ZF 8HP Torque Converter Shudder with 200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $180 to $15,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • M5 Engine2
  • M5 Transmission1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Transmission1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ

All 3 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2025202320222021202020192018201720162015201420132012201020092008200720062003200220012000

On the 2012-2023 BMW M5, the S63 and S63TU engines (F10 M5 2012-2016, F90 M5 2018-2023) share valve stem seal issues with N63 engine platform. Worn valve stem seals allow engine oil to leak into combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles) and blue smoke from exhaust. This issue becomes more prevalent in higher-mileage engines (60,000+ miles). Failed seals contribute to carbon buildup on intake valves, fouled spark plugs, and potential catalytic converter damage from oil burning ($3,000-$5,000 additional). S63TU improved oiling system but still experiences this issue. BMW issued TSB for N63/S63 engines addressing valve stem seal replacement procedure and updated parts. M5Board: catch this early before catalytic converter damage.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW 8 Series

Common Symptoms

  • Excessive engine oil consumption (1+ quart per 1,000-2,000 miles)
  • Blue smoke from exhaust, especially during cold start or hard acceleration
  • Oil level dropping significantly between oil changes
  • Fouled or oil-soaked spark plugs
  • Carbon buildup on intake valves
  • Rough idle or misfires from fouled plugs

How to Fix

Replace valve stem seals with updated OEM or performance seals ($3,500-$10,000 depending on method). Labor-intensive repair requiring either cylinder head removal ($6,000-$10,000) or specialized valve spring compressor tools with heads on engine ($3,500-$6,000). Address issue EARLY to prevent catalytic converter damage from oil burning (adds $3,000-$5,000 to repair). Perform more frequent oil changes (5,000 miles) to minimize damage. Blue smoke test: let engine idle 30+ minutes until hot, then rev to redline briefly - big blue smoke plume = valve seals. Find shop that can replace valve seals with heads installed (specialized tools required) - saves $4,000+ in labor vs. full head removal.

Typical repair cost:$3,500 - $15,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2012-2023 BMW M5, ignition coils on S63 and S63TU engines (F10 M5 2012-2016, F90 M5 2018-2023) fail far more frequently than on other BMW engines, with failures common before 30,000 miles. High-performance turbocharged nature of S63 creates extreme heat and electrical demands that stress ignition coils beyond their design limits. When one coil fails, it typically signals that other coils are nearing end of life. Failed coils cause misfires, rough running, and can damage catalytic converters if not addressed promptly. M5Board: ignition coil failure before 30k miles is NORMAL on S63 engines - budget for this, don't be shocked when dealer says "common issue." When one coil fails, M5Post recommends replacing all 8 at once since they'll all fail within 10k miles anyway - saves second service appointment and labor cost.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW M3, BMW M6

Common Symptoms

  • Engine misfires, especially under load or acceleration
  • Rough idle and unstable engine operation
  • Check engine light with misfire codes (P0300-P0308)
  • Reduced power output
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Potential catalytic converter damage from unburned fuel

How to Fix

Replace failed ignition coil(s) immediately to prevent catalytic converter damage ($3,000-$5,000 additional). When one coil fails, M5Post recommends replacing all 8 coils as preventative maintenance ($600-$900 parts + labor) - they typically fail within similar timeframes and saves second service visit. Use OEM Bosch coils for best reliability ($50-$80 each) - aftermarket options fail even faster on S63 due to heat and electrical demands. Replace spark plugs simultaneously if mileage exceeds 30,000 miles ($280-$320 for 8 plugs). Labor: 1-2 hours. Single coil replacement: $179-$235.

Typical repair cost:$180 - $1,200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
200 owners

On the 2018-2023 BMW M5, the F90 M5 equipped with the ZF 8HP76 torque converter automatic can develop a shudder or vibration during light throttle acceleration, particularly at highway speeds between 40-70 mph. The issue stems from the torque converter lockup clutch glazing or contaminated transmission fluid degrading friction material performance.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW M2

Common Symptoms

  • Vibration at 40-70 mph under light throttle
  • Shudder during torque converter lockup
  • Slight hesitation when accelerating from cruise
  • Transmission temperature warnings
  • Intermittent rough shifts
  • Vibration disappears under hard acceleration

How to Fix

Perform a transmission fluid and filter change using genuine ZF LifeGuard 8 fluid. If the shudder persists, the torque converter must be replaced. BMW issued a service bulletin for some VINs. A software update for shift calibration may also help in mild cases.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $4,000

Research This Issue

Based on 200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
NHTSA Recalls4 recalls

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles. A small portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Campaign #20V59800030/09/2020

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 M5 and 2020 M8 Gran Coupe, M8 Coupe, and M8 Convertible vehicles. The transmission wiring harness can become damaged, resulting in an electrical short circuit.

Campaign #19V88300011/12/2019

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of BMW M5 problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your BMW M5. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

Other BMW Models

BMW M332BMW 3 Series27BMW i525BMW M340i22BMW 6 Series21BMW i419

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW M5 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 200+ owner reports, the 2021 BMW M5 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ZF 8HP Torque Converter Shudder, S63/S63TU Valve Stem Seal Failure & Oil Consumption, S63/S63TU Ignition Coil Premature Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the BMW M5 reliable?

The 2021 BMW M5 has 3 known issues documented across 200+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. 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 $180 to $15,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2018-2023 BMW M5 ZF 8HP Torque Converter Shudder?

The F90 M5 equipped with the ZF 8HP76 torque converter automatic can develop a shudder or vibration during light throttle acceleration, particularly at highway speeds between 40-70 mph. The issue stems from the torque converter lockup clutch glazing or contaminated transmission f… Repairs typically run $500-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2023 BMW M5 S63/S63TU Valve Stem Seal Failure & Oil Consumption?

The S63 and S63TU engines (F10 M5 2012-2016, F90 M5 2018-2023) share valve stem seal issues with N63 engine platform. Worn valve stem seals allow engine oil to leak into combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles) and blue smoke from exha… Repairs typically run $3,500-$15,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2023 BMW M5 S63/S63TU Ignition Coil Premature Failure?

Ignition coils on S63 and S63TU engines (F10 M5 2012-2016, F90 M5 2018-2023) fail far more frequently than on other BMW engines, with failures common before 30,000 miles. High-performance turbocharged nature of S63 creates extreme heat and electrical demands that stress ignition… Repairs typically run $180-$1,200. Severity: low.

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.

Data sourced from 200+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #19V68400027/09/2019

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 750i xDrive, 2019 M850i xDrive Coupe, M850i xDrive Convertible, X5 xDrive50i, X7 xDrive50i, and M5 vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may not have been properly attached to the engine, which may cause the fuel pump flange to crack, resulting in a fuel leak.

Campaign #19V51300003/07/2019

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.