1992 BMW M5

Introduction:

The 1992 BMW M5 is a high-performance sedan powered by a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter S38 inline-6 engine. Mated to a standard 5-speed Getrag manual transmission, it delivers 311 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The M5 was praised for its exceptional handling and performance but also had some potential issues.

Engine:

S38 3.6L Inline-6

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning oil excessively, requiring frequent top-ups.
  • Solution: Replace valve stem seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Intake Camshaft Thrust Washer Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Timing chain skipping teeth, causing engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace intake camshaft, thrust washer, and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Throttle Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine performance, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Knock Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking under load.
  • Solution: Replace knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Transmission:

Getrag 5-Speed Manual

• Worn Synchros:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild transmission or replace synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• Driveshaft Flex Disc Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations or clunking noises while driving.
  • Solution: Replace driveshaft flex disc.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Suspension:

No Issues Found

Electrical:

No Issues Found

Exterior:

No Issues Found

Interior:

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Fade:
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on instrument cluster display fading or becoming blurry.
  • Solution: Replace instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Sunroof Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly.
  • Solution: Replace sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Air Conditioning Condenser Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of refrigerant, weak air conditioning.
  • Solution: Replace air conditioning condenser.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary:

The 1992 BMW M5 is a highly desirable performance car, but it is not without its potential issues. The most common issues are related to engine oil consumption, camshaft thrust washer failure, and transmission synchro wear. The cost of repairs can be significant, but the M5 remains a popular choice for enthusiasts willing to invest in its upkeep.