Models · BMW
BMW M6 E63/E64 buying guide
The V10 M6, built from 2005 to 2010 as the E63 coupé and, from 2006, the E64 convertible. It shares its 5.0 V10 and SMG gearbox with the E60 M5, and its known faults have well understood checks.
The versions
- 5.0 V10 (S85B50), 507PS, revving to 8,250rpm
- Rear-wheel drive with a variable M differential lock
- Coupé (E63) and convertible (E64)
- 7-speed SMG III automated manual on UK cars (a 6-speed manual was offered in the United States)
What to check on a E63 M6
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, when, at what mileage and with which bearings, and ask for the invoice. With the engine warm and idling, listen at the front of the car for a faint metallic tick or knock from low down in the engine.
Why it matters: Rod bearing wear is the best known S85 issue, most often reported from around 60,000 miles. Worn bearings can damage the crankshaft if left. On this engine the bearings can be replaced with the engine in the car, and many cars have had it done as preventive work, which is a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Throttle actuators
What to look for: Check the dashboard for engine warnings after start-up, and on the drive note any sudden loss of power, rough running or hesitation. Ask whether either throttle actuator has been replaced or rebuilt.
Why it matters: The V10 has ten individual throttles worked by one actuator per bank. Gears inside the actuators wear, and some fail electrically, which usually puts the car into limp mode suddenly. Gear repair kits and replacement actuators are available, and many cars have had them done.
SMG gearbox shifts and pump
What to look for: On the drive, use both the automatic and manual modes. Shifts should be quick and consistent, and the car should pull away cleanly. Slow or hesitant changes or a gearbox warning light are the things to note.
Why it matters: The SMG is worked by a hydraulic pump, and the pump motor is its most common failure, usually showing as slow shifts and fault codes. A specialist can read the clutch wear and the SMG fault memory with diagnostic equipment, which tells you more than a test drive.
Also in the full guide
- VANOS running and cold start
- Oil leaks from the valve covers
- Oil grade in the history
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E63 M6
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.