2000 BMW M5
2000 BMW M5
Overview
The 2000 BMW M5, a legendary performance sedan, is renowned for its exhilarating driving dynamics and powerful V8 engine. While generally considered a robust vehicle for its era, like any high-performance machine, it has specific areas that owners and technicians commonly report issues with. This data focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related problems that can affect the reliability and ownership experience of this iconic E39 M5. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help prospective buyers and current owners budget for and address common mechanical and electrical concerns.
Engine
S62B50 4.9L V8
VANOS System Failure
- Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from the front of the engine, check engine light.
- Solution: Rebuild or replace VANOS solenoids and seals. Sometimes requires replacement of the entire VANOS unit.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-ups. Can be exacerbated by worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
- Solution: Engine rebuild, including piston rings and valve stem seals. Sometimes PCV system replacement can help.
- Cost: $3,000 - $8,000+
Water Pump Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, whining noise from the front of the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat. Often recommended to replace hoses at the same time.
- Cost: $500 - $1,000
Transmission
Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing). Flywheel resurfacing or replacement may be needed.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Synchronizer Issues
- Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, difficulty engaging gears, especially 2nd and 3rd.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Synchro rings and other internal components need replacement.
- Cost: $2,500 - $5,000+
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Control Arm Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of front and rear control arm bushings. Often done with alignment.
- Cost: $600 - $1,200
Rear Subframe Mounts
- Symptoms: Clunking or knocking sounds from the rear, especially during acceleration or braking.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear subframe mounting bushings.
- Cost: $700 - $1,500
Electrical
General Electrical System
Instrument Cluster Failure
- Symptoms: Pixelated displays, non-functional gauges, warning lights staying on, dead pixels.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster. Sometimes requires specialized repair services.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
ABS/DSC Module Failure
- Symptoms: ABS and DSC warning lights illuminated, loss of ABS and traction control functionality.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the ABS/DSC control module. Can be expensive.
- Cost: $800 - $2,000
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow operation, grinding noises when operating windows.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
- Cost: $300 - $600 per window
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Interior Components
Headliner Sagging
- Symptoms: Fabric on the headliner detaches and sags.
- Solution: Re-gluing or replacement of the headliner fabric.
- Cost: $300 - $700
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor
- Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting, or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2000 BMW M5 (E39) is a highly desirable performance car, but its advanced engineering for the time means certain components require diligent maintenance and can be costly to repair. The S62 V8 engine’s VANOS system and potential for oil consumption are key areas to inspect. Transmission issues, while less common than engine problems, can arise with clutch wear or internal synchronizer wear on the manual gearbox. Suspension components like control arm bushings and subframe mounts are also known wear items that can lead to drivability issues. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the instrument cluster and ABS/DSC modules, are not uncommon. Despite these potential issues, with proper care and addressing problems promptly, the E39 M5 remains a rewarding and capable vehicle.