Models · BMW
BMW M5 E60/E61 buying guide
The E60 M5 saloon arrived in 2005 with the S85 5.0 V10 and a seven-speed SMG gearbox, joined by the E61 Touring in 2007. It's a special engine that rewards careful maintenance, and most of the checks are about its history.
The versions
- S85 5.0 V10, 507PS, with the full output selected by the power button
- 7-speed SMG automated manual, rear-wheel drive
- Saloon (E60) from 2005; Touring (E61) from 2007
- Facelift from 2007
What to check on a E60 M5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Rod bearing history
What to look for: Ask whether the connecting rod bearings have been replaced, and look for the invoice. Check that oil changes have been done on time with the correct oil.
Why it matters: The S85's rod bearings can wear, and failure causes serious engine damage. Oil analysis isn't a reliable warning, so specialists recommend replacing them on higher-mileage cars with the originals. An invoice for the job is valuable.
Throttle actuator faults
What to look for: On the drive, watch for a drivetrain warning, a sudden loss of power or the car going into a reduced-power mode.
Why it matters: The S85 uses electric throttle actuators that can fail. Rebuilt units are available, and records of replacement are reassuring.
VANOS warnings
What to look for: Ask whether the car has ever shown a VANOS warning and what was done.
Why it matters: A VANOS warning often points at oil pressure to the system, such as the high-pressure pump or the oil line from the sump to the head, rather than the VANOS units themselves.
Also in the full guide
- SMG clutch and pump
- Rear differential noise
- iDrive
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E60 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.