Checklist: E60 BMW M5 2006–2010

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

The inspection sheet: mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 5

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Rod bearing wear All yearsListen for knocking at start-up or under load, and ask for proof the rod bearings were replaced. CarGurus, a published reference, a seller's guide (unofficial)
Failing throttle actuators All yearsHave all the throttle actuators tested with a scan tool, and watch for limp mode. CarGurus, a published reference, a seller's guide (unofficial)
SMG hydraulic pump and clutch All yearsFeel for slow or hesitant shifts and a slipping or abrupt clutch, and look for leaks at the pump. CarGurus, a seller's guide (unofficial)
Oil use All yearsCheck the oil level, and ask how often it needs topping up. A seller's guide (unofficial)
VANOS wear and leaks All yearsLook for oil around the VANOS unit, and read its fault codes. A seller's guide (unofficial)

Services to ask about 1

Scheduled work a seller can show records for. The E60's schedule has 2 more services, on its page. Buying shows which are due at a car's miles and age.

Engine oil and filter All yearsReplace every 5,000 miles, per a parts seller. Euro Premium Parts says every 5,000 to 7,500 miles with 10W-60 synthetic, not the 5W-30 of other 5 Series cars. Ask for oil change records. A seller's guide (unofficial)

Recalls to ask about 2

Recalls filed for these model years, newest first. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 13V407000 2008–2010Resistance at the taillights' contacts can damage the connector, so some rear lights work only intermittently or not at all. Dealers replace the bulb carriers. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 12V126000 2006–2010The positive battery cable's connector may have been fitted wrongly to the trunk floor, so its bolt can loosen and the connection overheat. Dealers inspect and secure it. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA

What buyers avoid 2

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

A 2006 carCarGurus says to skip the 2006 M5, which came only with the SMG and shifted roughly. CarGurus
A car without proof of new rod bearings All yearsEuro Premium Parts calls rod bearing replacement non-negotiable, and says a buyer who does not confirm it was done is taking a big financial risk. A seller's guide (unofficial)

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.