2002 BMW M5

2002 BMW M5

Overview

The 2002 BMW M5, a legendary performance sedan, is renowned for its exhilarating driving dynamics and powerful V8 engine. While generally a robust vehicle, like any high-performance machine of its era, it has specific areas that owners and technicians commonly address. This data focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related issues that have been reported by owners and observed in the automotive community. Understanding these potential points of concern can help prospective buyers and current owners manage maintenance and ensure the longevity of this iconic car. The S62 V8 engine, while a masterpiece, requires diligent maintenance to prevent certain issues from arising.

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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: Repair or replace VANOS solenoids, seals, or the entire VANOS unit.
• Cost: $1,500 - $3,000

Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) Module Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, limp mode, erratic throttle response, stalling.
• Solution: Replace the TAC module.
• Cost: $800 - $1,500

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil usage between changes, blue smoke from exhaust under acceleration.
• Solution: Can be due to worn piston rings, valve stem seals, or PCV system issues. Requires diagnosis and repair.
• Cost: $1,000 - $4,000+

Water Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, whining noise from the front of the engine.
• Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Transmission

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, burning smell.
• Solution: Replace clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $1,000 - $2,000

Synchronizer Issues

• Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, difficulty engaging gears.
• Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000+

Suspension

Standard M Sport Suspension

Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Rear Subframe Mounts

• Symptoms: Clunking or knocking from the rear, especially under acceleration or braking.
• Solution: Replace rear subframe mounting bushings.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Electrical

General Electrical System

Heated Seat Elements Failure

• Symptoms: Heated seats no longer working.
• Solution: Replace heating elements or associated wiring.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Instrument Cluster Issues

• Symptoms: Pixelated displays, non-functional gauges, intermittent power loss to cluster.
• Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $500 - $1,200

ABS/DSC Module Failure

• Symptoms: ABS and DSC warning lights illuminated, loss of ABS/DSC functionality.
• Solution: Repair or replace the ABS/DSC module.
• Cost: $800 - $1,800

Exterior

Body and Trim

Headlight Lens Hazing/Condensation

• Symptoms: Cloudy or yellowed headlight lenses, moisture inside headlights.
• Solution: Restore lenses or replace headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $200 - $800

Door Seal Deterioration

• Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, wind noise.
• Solution: Replace door seals.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Interior

Cabin Components

Headliner Sagging

• Symptoms: Fabric on the headliner detaches and sags.
• Solution: Re-glue or replace headliner fabric.
• Cost: $300 - $700

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No airflow from vents, or intermittent airflow.
• Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $300 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2002 BMW M5 is a highly desirable performance car with a potent V8 engine. While it offers an exceptional driving experience, potential buyers and owners should be aware of common issues, particularly with the VANOS system, throttle actuators, and the general complexity of its high-performance engine. Transmission and suspension components, while generally robust, can require attention. Electrical gremlins, especially in the instrument cluster and ABS/DSC modules, are also noted. Despite these potential challenges, with diligent maintenance and prompt attention to known issues, the E39 M5 remains a rewarding and iconic vehicle to own.