Models · BMW
BMW X5 M E70 and X6 M E71 buying guide
The first X5 M and X6 M, both using a 555PS twin-turbo V8 and a six-speed automatic. The X5 M is the conventional SUV body and the X6 M the coupé-styled one.
The versions
- 4.4 twin-turbo V8 petrol (S63), 555PS, with the turbos mounted between the cylinder banks
- Six-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- xDrive four-wheel drive
- X5 M (E70) SUV body and X6 M (E71) coupé-styled body
What to check on a E70 X5 M or E71 X6 M
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Coolant leaks and a sweet smell
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant level and look for any low coolant message. Look under the front of the car for drips. After the drive, open the bonnet and note any sweet smell or wisps of steam.
Why it matters: Leaking radiators, water pumps and hoses are reported on these cars. Because the turbos sit in the middle of the V8, a leaking hose can drip coolant onto a hot turbo, which is where the sweet smell comes from. Finding a leak before it gets worse is the aim.
The auxiliary water pump
What to look for: Before you travel, give the chassis number to a BMW dealer and ask whether the electric auxiliary water pump has been replaced under a recall campaign, and whether any other recall is outstanding.
Why it matters: In 2018 BMW recalled the X5 M and X6 M in the US, along with other V8 models, because the electric auxiliary water pump's circuit board could overheat. The fix is a replacement pump. A dealer record confirms the work on the car you're looking at.
A burning plastic smell
What to look for: After a good drive, stand by the front of the car with the bonnet open and note any smell of hot or burning plastic, and look at the plastic shrouding above and behind the engine for melting or distortion.
Why it matters: Some owners report a burning plastic smell, most likely from plastic shrouding above and behind the engine softening in the heat. It's worth finding the source so it can be put right.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox software and shift quality
- The electronic handbrake
- Rear differential mountings
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E70 X5 M or E71 X6 M
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.