Models · BMW
BMW M5 F90 buying guide
The F90 M5, built from 2018 to 2024, was the first M5 with four-wheel drive, using the S63 4.4 twin-turbo V8 and an eight-speed automatic. A facelift arrived for the 2021 model year.
The versions
- M5: S63 4.4 twin-turbo V8, 600PS
- M5 Competition (from 2018): 625PS
- M5 CS (2021): 635PS, lighter and limited
- M xDrive four-wheel drive, with a rear-wheel-drive mode when stability control is off
- 8-speed M Steptronic torque converter automatic; saloon only
What to check on a F90 M5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Dying on restart
What to look for: After the test drive, switch off, wait a minute and restart. Note any failure to start or the engine dying straight after. Ask whether the low-pressure fuel pump has been replaced.
Why it matters: Some cars developed a low-pressure fuel pump fault that made the engine die on restart after a drive. Replacing the pump fixed it, and many will have been done under warranty. An invoice for the new pump is a good sign.
Recall work
What to look for: Before you travel, give the chassis number to a BMW dealer and ask them to confirm every recall is complete.
Why it matters: Recalls covered the high-pressure fuel pump, which on 2018 to 2019 cars was not always properly attached to the engine and could crack and leak, over-reading fuel gauges, and a transmission wiring harness that may have affected US cars only. Most have been done by now.
Clunks from the front
What to look for: Drive slowly over speed bumps and broken surfaces with the radio off and listen for a clunk or knock from the front of the car.
Why it matters: Some owners have heard front-end clunks, possibly from subframe bolts that weren't torqued correctly. Checking and re-torquing the bolts is a simple first step for a specialist.
Also in the full guide
- Rear camera
- The instrument display
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the F90 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.