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BMW · Known Issues

2013 BMW M6 Problems: 8 Known Issues

2013 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013 BMW M6 has 8 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Rod Bearing Premature Wear (S65/S63 Engines) ($3,000-$6,000 repair), F12/F13 Electric Water Pump and Thermostat Failure ($700-$1,800 repair) and F12/F13 7-Speed M-DCT Mechatronic and Clutch Pack Failure ($1,500-$5,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • M6 Engine4
  • M6 Cooling1
  • M6 Transmission1
  • M6 Fuel System1
  • M6 Body/Panels1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine4
  • Cooling1
  • Transmission1
  • Fuel System1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 8 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS201920182017201620152014201320122011201020092008200720062005

On the 2005-2019 BMW M6, both the S65 V8 (E63 M6) and S63 twin-turbo V8 (F06/F12/F13 M6) suffer from premature rod bearing wear. The S65 is particularly notorious — the OEM rod bearings use a copper-lead composition that wears rapidly, especially with frequent cold starts and short trips. The S63 has improved bearings but can still experience wear at higher mileages. Failure to catch worn bearings leads to spun bearings and catastrophic engine failure.

This issue also affects: BMW M3, BMW M5, BMW X5

Common Symptoms

  • Metallic ticking or knocking from engine at idle
  • Copper or bronze particles visible in oil filter
  • Oil analysis showing elevated copper and lead levels
  • Roughness felt through drivetrain at low RPM
  • Engine knock under load

How to Fix

Perform a preventive rod bearing replacement between 60,000-80,000 miles on S65 engines, and inspect by 80,000-100,000 miles on S63 engines. Use upgraded ACL or King XP bearings with coated surfaces. Cut and send used oil filter for analysis — bearing material particles indicate wear progression. The job requires engine-out on the S65 (approximately 20 hours labor) or can be done in-car on the S63 with the oil pan dropped.

What you need to fix it

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

  • FCP Euro S85 comprehensive Genuine BMW rod-bearing replacement kit 11247841703KT2
    OEM11247841702 / 11247841703Cross-refKIT-11247841703KT2

    Follow the Genuine BMW bolt procedure and note that engine oil is not included..

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$3,000 - $6,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2013-2018 BMW M6 S63, the S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine in the F06/F12/F13 M6 (2013-2018) has rod bearing concerns similar to but less catastrophic than the S85 V10. While the S63 bearing clearances are better than the notoriously tight S85, bearings can still wear prematurely under hard driving or track use, especially at high mileage. Bearing wear is accelerated by BMW's recommended 10,000-mile oil change intervals (too long for this engine). Preventive rod bearing replacement is recommended at 60,000-80,000 miles for peace of mind, particularly for cars that see track days or spirited driving. Oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles are mandatory to extend bearing life. ACL Race Rod Bearings 8B1578HX-STD ($150-250) or King Bearings SV Series are the community-recommended upgrades over OEM. WPC-treated bearings from Lang Racing offer the best durability for track use.

This issue also affects: BMW M4, BMW M5, BMW M8

Common Symptoms

  • Faint ticking or knocking noise from bottom end (early wear)
  • Elevated copper/lead levels in oil analysis
  • Oil pressure drop at idle when engine is hot
  • Metal particles on magnetic drain plug
  • Engine knocking under load (advanced wear)
  • Catastrophic engine failure (if bearings spin)

How to Fix

Preventive rod bearing replacement at 60,000-80,000 miles using ACL Race Rod Bearings 8B1578HX-STD ($150-250), King Bearings SV Series, or WPC-treated bearings from Lang Racing. Cost: $4,000-7,000 for preventive replacement. Oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles mandatory (ignore BMW's 10,000-mile recommendation). Use Blackstone Labs oil analysis ($30/test) every 5,000 miles to monitor bearing wear metals. Preventive replacement recommended for peace of mind, especially on cars used for track days or spirited driving.

Typical repair cost:$4,000 - $7,000

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Medium Confidence

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), the S63 twin-turbo V8 in the F06/F12/F13 M6 is prone to wastegate rattle as the wastegate actuator linkage develops play with heat cycling, producing a metallic rattle at light throttle/low load. The turbos can also suffer oil-feed coking/starvation due to the intense under-bonnet heat (a hot-V layout with turbos in the engine valley), leading to bearing wear, whining, power loss and increased turbo lag if neglected. Heat management and clean oil are central to turbo longevity on this engine.

This issue also affects: BMW M5, BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series

Common Symptoms

  • Metallic rattle at light throttle / low load
  • Turbo whine or whistle
  • Power loss and increased turbo lag
  • Excessive exhaust smoke in severe cases

How to Fix

Confirm wastegate rattle by listening at light throttle; worn actuators/linkages can be replaced or upgraded. For oil starvation, maintain strict oil-change intervals with the correct specification, allow proper cool-down after hard driving, and keep the cooling system healthy. Severely worn or whining turbos require rebuild or replacement.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $4,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), the S63 twin-turbo V8 in the F06/F12/F13 M6 uses direct fuel injection, so no fuel washes over the back of the intake valves. Over time, oil vapor from the crankcase ventilation system bakes onto the intake valves and ports, restricting airflow. This produces rough idle, cold-start stumble, misfires and a loss of low-end response, typically becoming noticeable from roughly 50,000-70,000 km onward. It is a normal direct-injection characteristic rather than a defect, but it is widely reported by M6 owners and requires periodic service.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW M3, BMW Z4

Common Symptoms

  • Rough idle
  • Cold-start stumble / hesitation
  • Misfires under load
  • Loss of low-end power and throttle response
  • Reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Have the intake valves walnut-blasted (media-blast cleaning) to remove carbon deposits without removing the cylinder heads. Many owners do this every 50,000-70,000 km. A properly functioning PCV/crankcase ventilation system and quality oil reduce deposit rate. An oil-catch can is sometimes fitted to slow accumulation.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), the F06/F12/F13 M6 with the S63 twin-turbo V8 uses an electrically driven coolant pump and an electronic thermostat. Both are common failure points. The electric water pump can fail electronically (no flow) and the thermostat can stick, while cracked radiator end-tanks and a leaking expansion tank are also reported. Because the twin-turbo V8 generates significant under-bonnet heat, cooling-system failures can quickly lead to overheating and, if ignored, head-gasket or bearing damage. This affects the M6 specifically and is separate from the engine-bearing and turbo issues.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW Z3, BMW i3

Common Symptoms

  • Rising coolant temperature / overheating warning
  • Rapid coolant loss
  • Coolant smell or visible leak under the car
  • Engine running hot in traffic
  • Low coolant level warning

How to Fix

Replace the failed electric water pump and/or electronic thermostat with OEM units; inspect the radiator end-tanks and expansion tank for cracks and replace as needed. Pressure-test the cooling system, refresh coolant, and treat the pump/thermostat as wear items given the heat load. Address any overheating event immediately to avoid secondary engine damage.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine BMW S63N mechanical coolant pump 11537843738
    OEM11537843738

    Confirmed failed F-series M6 mechanical main coolant-pump replacement. Fitment: 2012-2019 F12/F13/F06 M6 as explicitly fitment-listed; verify VIN and obtain only the seals, belt-drive parts and hardware required by inspection/procedure..

    BMW Parts Deal
  • Genuine BMW engine-coolant thermostat with seal 11537586885
    OEM11537586885

    Confirmed failed F-series M6 thermostat branch. Fitment: 2012-2019 F12/F13/F06 M6 as shown by the model-specific catalog; verify VIN and do not replace solely because the pump failed..

    BMW Parts Deal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), the F06/F12/F13 M6 uses a 7-speed M dual-clutch transmission (GS7D36/GS7D70). Owners report two main problems: failure of the mechatronic unit (the DCT's electronic/hydraulic control module), which causes erratic shifting, stored transmission fault codes and limp/failsafe mode; and premature clutch-pack wear, which causes slipping, harsh or jerky engagement and a burning smell, particularly in stop-and-go driving or on tuned cars. This is a separate transmission from the SMG used on the earlier V10 M6.

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

Common Symptoms

  • Erratic or harsh shifting
  • Transmission warning light / failsafe (limp) mode
  • Clutch slipping or hesitation engaging gears
  • Jerking in stop-and-go traffic
  • Burning smell from the transmission area

How to Fix

Scan for transmission codes to confirm whether the fault is the mechatronic unit or worn clutch packs. Mechatronic units can often be repaired/replaced and must be reprogrammed and adapted to the vehicle afterward. Worn clutch packs require a clutch replacement (dealer cost often $3,000-$5,000). Regular DCT fluid and filter changes help prevent premature wear; avoid prolonged clutch slip in traffic.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $5,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), the S63/N63 V8 family used in the F12/F13 M6 is subject to high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) and direct-injector problems. A failing HPFP causes long cranking and hard starting (worst when cold), rough running and misfires from insufficient rail pressure. Separately, the direct injectors can develop internal leaks, dumping excess fuel and causing cold-start rough running, misfires and a Service Engine light. BMW issued a service bulletin for N63/S63 engines in F12/F13 addressing rough cold-start running with illuminated service lights traced to internal high-pressure injector failure; injectors must be matched to the correct index per bank.

This issue also affects: BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series

Common Symptoms

  • Long crank / hard starting, worst when cold
  • Rough running and misfires after a cold start
  • Hesitation or stumble during acceleration
  • Check Engine / Service Engine Soon light
  • Reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Scan for misfire and fuel-system codes and test cold-start fuel-rail pressure. Replace a failing HPFP; for injector faults, replace the affected injector(s) with units of the correct matching index code (do not mix injector indexes on a bank) and re-code them. Address per the relevant BMW technical service bulletin for the N63/S63.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $2,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 (S63TU), on the F12 M6 Convertible, the soft-top is operated by a hydraulic pump unit. Owners (including on German forums such as motor-talk.de) report the top stops opening or closing mid-cycle, operates slowly or jams. The most common root causes are the two high-current relays in the hydraulic pump unit sticking/failing and the pump itself losing pressure over time; hydraulic fluid leaks and sensor faults also occur. The relays are inexpensive but the pump rebuild/replacement is costly, and a stuck top can leave the car undriveable in the rain.

Common Symptoms

  • Convertible top stops part-way through opening or closing
  • Slow or inconsistent top operation
  • Top jams or fails to move
  • Hydraulic fluid leak near the pump unit
  • Roof error message in the cluster

How to Fix

Diagnose whether the fault is the pump's high-current relays (relatively cheap, often the cure), a pressure loss in the pump, a hydraulic leak, or a roof microswitch/sensor. Replace the relays first; if pressure loss persists, rebuild or replace the hydraulic pump unit (specialist rebuild services exist) and renew worn seals/sensors. Bleed and refill the hydraulic system after repair.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $1,600

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2019 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles. The third brake light may become loose, possibly allowing the light to detach from the vehicle.

Campaign #20V09400019/02/2020

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 BMW M5 sedans manufactured September 4, 2014, through December 4, 2014, 2015 M6 coupes manufactured September 3, 2014, through December 3, 2014, 2015 M6 convertibles manufactured September 8, 2014, through December 4, 2014, and 2015 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles manufactured September3, 2014, through December 4, 2014. The affected vehicles have a driveshaft that may have been inadequately welded during manufacturing.

Campaign #16V54000019/07/2016

AIR BAGS

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, Mini 4-Door Cooper, Cooper S, Mini 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and 2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, M5 and 535d vehicles. The affected vehicles have seat- mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common BMW M6 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013 BMW M6 has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rod Bearing Premature Wear (S65/S63 Engines), F12/F13 Electric Water Pump and Thermostat Failure, F12/F13 7-Speed M-DCT Mechatronic and Clutch Pack Failure. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the BMW M6 reliable?

The 2013 BMW M6 has 8 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Rod Bearing Premature Wear (S65/S63 Engines) and F12/F13 Electric Water Pump and Thermostat Failure and F12/F13 7-Speed M-DCT Mechatronic and Clutch Pack Failure. 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 M6 problems?

Repair costs for known BMW M6 issues range from $100 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rod Bearing Premature Wear (S65/S63 Engines), typically costs $3,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2005-2019 BMW M6 Rod Bearing Premature Wear (S65/S63 Engines)?

Both the S65 V8 (E63 M6) and S63 twin-turbo V8 (F06/F12/F13 M6) suffer from premature rod bearing wear. The S65 is particularly notorious — the OEM rod bearings use a copper-lead composition that wears rapidly, especially with frequent cold starts and short trips. The S63 has imp… Repairs typically run $3,000-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 F12/F13 Electric Water Pump and Thermostat Failure?

The F06/F12/F13 M6 with the S63 twin-turbo V8 uses an electrically driven coolant pump and an electronic thermostat. Both are common failure points. The electric water pump can fail electronically (no flow) and the thermostat can stick, while cracked radiator end-tanks and a leak… Repairs typically run $700-$1,800. Severity: high.

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 compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #16V91400020/12/2016

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

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 F12/F13 7-Speed M-DCT Mechatronic and Clutch Pack Failure?

The F06/F12/F13 M6 uses a 7-speed M dual-clutch transmission (GS7D36/GS7D70). Owners report two main problems: failure of the mechatronic unit (the DCT's electronic/hydraulic control module), which causes erratic shifting, stored transmission fault codes and limp/failsafe mode; a… Repairs typically run $1,500-$5,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 High-Pressure Fuel Pump / Fuel Injector Cold-Start Misfire?

The S63/N63 V8 family used in the F12/F13 M6 is subject to high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) and direct-injector problems. A failing HPFP causes long cranking and hard starting (worst when cold), rough running and misfires from insufficient rail pressure. Separately, the direct inje… Repairs typically run $600-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2018 BMW M6 S63 Twin-Turbo V8 Rod Bearing Concerns (F06/F12/F13 M6)?

The S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine in the F06/F12/F13 M6 (2013-2018) has rod bearing concerns similar to but less catastrophic than the S85 V10. While the S63 bearing clearances are better than the notoriously tight S85, bearings can still wear prematurely under hard driving or tr… Repairs typically run $4,000-$7,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 F12 Convertible Top Hydraulic Pump and Relay Failure?

On the F12 M6 Convertible, the soft-top is operated by a hydraulic pump unit. Owners (including on German forums such as motor-talk.de) report the top stops opening or closing mid-cycle, operates slowly or jams. The most common root causes are the two high-current relays in the h… Repairs typically run $100-$1,600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 F12/F13 Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle and Oil Starvation?

The S63 twin-turbo V8 in the F06/F12/F13 M6 is prone to wastegate rattle as the wastegate actuator linkage develops play with heat cycling, producing a metallic rattle at light throttle/low load. The turbos can also suffer oil-feed coking/starvation due to the intense under-bonne… Repairs typically run $400-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2019 BMW M6 S63 Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (Direct Injection)?

The S63 twin-turbo V8 in the F06/F12/F13 M6 uses direct fuel injection, so no fuel washes over the back of the intake valves. Over time, oil vapor from the crankcase ventilation system bakes onto the intake valves and ports, restricting airflow. This produces rough idle, cold-sta… Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: medium.