Am I finally having a serious problem with my German super sedan? I have owned this car for just over six months now. In that short time, I have driven it extensively. When I bought the car, it had 98,000 miles on the odometer. Today, it sits at over 120,000 miles. Consequently, I have put roughly 20,000 miles on this vehicle in half a year. However, questions regarding high-mileage BMW M5 F10 reliability are starting to surface. Specifically, the engine is currently consuming about a quart of oil every 500 to 600 miles. This happens essentially every week.
There are no visible leaks on the ground. I have inspected the valve covers and the timing chain covers. Everything appears dry. Furthermore, the car does not smoke from the exhaust. Consequently, the engine must be consuming the oil internally. This mystery consumption is the biggest question mark regarding my high-mileage BMW M5 F10 reliability at the moment. Despite this, I continue to drive the car daily. It is not a garage queen. Instead, it is a workhorse.
The Reality of High-Mileage BMW M5 F10 Reliability
When I first purchased this vehicle, many people doubted my decision. They told me the car would be garbage. Also, they warned me it would do nothing but break. However, I am a BMW guy first. The E39 and F10 M5 models have always been dream cars for me. I previously leased an F10, but owning one is different. For example, this specific car has traveled back and forth to Detroit, Chicago, and Las Vegas. Additionally, it has made trips to Mississippi, Atlanta, and Houston. Most of these 20,000 miles are highway miles. However, I drive my cars hard.
Outside of the recent oil consumption issue, the mechanical performance has been solid. Currently, the car is due for an oil change. I adhere to a strict 5,000-mile interval for oil services. The dealership often tells me this is unnecessary. In fact, they insist I should wait for the 10,000-mile interval. However, I disagree. It is my money and my car. I want the oil changed when I want it changed. Ultimately, this over-maintenance strategy is key to maintaining high-mileage BMW M5 F10 reliability.
Driving Experience and Transmission
Driving this car is an absolute pleasure. Overall, it is one of the most enjoyable ownership experiences I have ever had. The car features the DCT transmission. Historically, I was never a fan of the older SMG transmissions found in the E46 M3 or E60 M5. Those units broke constantly. In contrast, the DCT in this F10 is significantly better. It is not perfect, but it is far superior to its predecessor. For instance, I mostly leave it in drive, and it performs flawlessly.
The throttle response varies greatly depending on the mode. In efficient mode, the fuel consumption drops drastically. Yet, the car remains quick. Conversely, Sport Plus mode changes the personality entirely. I call this the “JG Wentworth” mode because it is my gas and I want it now. In this mode, the car jerks and provides instant power. For example, if you hit the throttle, it breaks traction immediately. Overall, the car runs like a top.
I have drifted this car. Also, I have done donuts. I have taken it to track days and legal street racing events on Woodward Avenue. Through all of this abuse, it has remained reliable. It is a comfortable daily driver that transforms into a beast on command. Furthermore, it is an excellent road trip vehicle. In my Ram trucks, highway lines can sometimes hypnotize me. I might get drowsy. In contrast, this never happens in the M5. I stay alert and engaged behind the wheel.
Failing Technology and Interior Gremlins
While the mechanicals are mostly holding up, the electronics are showing their age. This is a 2016 model, making it nearly nine years old. Consequently, specific tech issues are appearing. First, the iDrive navigation screen is failing. There are black spots appearing inside the display. Strangely, these spots sometimes stretch from the top to the bottom of the screen. Then, they mysteriously fill back in. It looks like the screen is broken, but then it partially heals itself. It makes no sense.
In addition to the main screen, the heads-up display is also deteriorating. When I turn it on, you can see distinct white vertical lines. This large screen on the windshield controls navigation and night vision. Currently, it looks terrible. This failure of technology is why many enthusiasts prefer the older E39 M5. Specifically, that car existed right before the explosion of complex cabin technology.
Despite these failures, I prefer this interior to the modern alternatives. The new F90 M5 has too much tech. Moreover, the newest hybrid M5 is not for me. I do not want a car with a massive battery and heavy truck tires. To me, the F10 represents the last era of the true ultimate driving machine before technology took over completely. I plan to fix these screens. Eventually, I might even upgrade to a larger aftermarket screen with Apple CarPlay if it works with the heads-up display.
Upcoming Service and Warranty
The car is heading to the dealer later this week. I have a list of items for them to check. First, there is a shudder in the steering wheel when I back into parking spots. I am unsure if this is a power steering issue. Second, I feel a slight delay in the transmission when shifting into reverse. This reminds me of failures in my previous 6-series. Therefore, I want them to inspect the DCT. Finally, and most importantly, they will address the oil consumption.
When they perform the oil change, they will cut open the oil filter. We are looking for copper or bearing material. For example, rod bearings are a common concern at this mileage range. If we find metal in the filter, it means the engine is eating itself. If that is the case, it will be time for an engine replacement. Fortunately, I have a warranty that covers the car until 150,000 miles.
My deductible is only $200 per visit. It does not matter if they find one problem or ten problems. Happily, I pay the same flat rate. As a result, my out-of-pocket maintenance bill for the last six months has been zero. If the engine needs replacing, the warranty covers it. Similarly, if the transmission fails, the warranty covers it. This safety net allows me to drive the car across the country without fear. I simply enjoy the drive.
Final Thoughts on Ownership
This car is loud and aggressive. My significant other often calls it a peacock. She says it is offensive. Additionally, the low fuel chime makes the same sound as a check engine warning. Every BMW owner hates that sound. For instance, it gives you a mini heart attack every time it dings. However, seeing the reaction of passengers and other drivers never gets old. I can “dog walk” almost anyone who tries to race me. It is incredibly satisfying.
Overall, I have put 20,000 miles on this car in six months. It consumes oil and has some broken screens. Yet, I love it. It is one of the best cars I have ever owned. I plan to keep it for a long time, especially with the warranty backing me up. It serves its purpose as a daily driver and a track weapon perfectly.
Ram 1500 Giveaway Update
Finally, for the Mopar fans in the audience, our Ram 1500 Laramie giveaway is still active. We are running a special Cyber Monday extension sale. This lasts through Wednesday at midnight. Specifically, you can get 100X entries during this period. The truck is super clean. Also, we have removed the MDS system to ensure reliability. We checked the camshaft and lifters to make sure everything is solid. To enter, simply head over to our site and buy some Goodys Popcorn. You get the snacks, and you get a chance to win the truck. Good luck.
