Models · BMW
BMW M5 E39 buying guide
The E39 M5 was built from 1998 to 2003 with the S62 4.9 V8 and a six-speed manual gearbox, as a saloon only. The 2000 facelift brought new headlights and rear lights. A looked-after car is a durable one, and the checks centre on the engine's chains and VANOS.
The versions
- S62 4.9 V8, 400PS, naturally aspirated
- 6-speed Getrag manual only, rear-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential
- Saloon only
- Facelift from 2000 with ringed headlights and LED rear lights
What to check on a E39 M5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
VANOS and chain noise
What to look for: Listen from a cold start and again when warm. Some noise at start-up is normal, but a rattle that persists, or that comes back when warm, is the thing to note. Ask when the chains and tensioners were last renewed.
Why it matters: The timing chains and their plastic tensioner wear, and they work closely with the VANOS system. Specialists suggest chains at around 100,000 miles and an overhaul of the VANOS at the same time. Left alone, a worn system costs power and can lead to engine damage.
Oil use and warm-up care
What to look for: Ask how much oil the car uses. Watch the amber lights in the rev counter on a cold start, which show the safe rev limit as the oil warms.
Why it matters: Around a litre every 1,500 miles is typical. A seller who knows the car's oil use and respects the warm-up lights is a good sign.
Differential oil leaks
What to look for: From underneath, look at the rear differential for wet oil around the seals.
Why it matters: The differential seals can leak with age. It's a known repair, and worth knowing about.
Also in the full guide
- Clutch feel
- Instrument display pixels
- Rust in the known places
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E39 M5
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.