2010 BMW M6

The 2010 BMW M6 is a high-performance grand tourer powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 engine (S85) producing 500 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. It was offered as a coupe or convertible. Enthusiasts appreciate the M6 for its unique high-revving V10 engine, aggressive styling, and luxurious interior. Criticisms often revolve around its complicated systems, high maintenance costs, and relatively heavy weight. The 2010 M6 came equipped with a 7-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) or a 6-speed manual transmission.

Engine

5.0L V10 (S85)

• Rod Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking sound from the engine, especially at idle or low RPMs. Can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the rod bearings with upgraded or OEM bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throttle Actuator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine malfunction light, rough running, reduced power. Can be caused by faulty throttle actuators, throttle position sensors, or associated wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific fault code and replace the faulty throttle actuator or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per actuator. Two are required.
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine malfunction light, reduced power, rough idling. This can be due to a number of VANOS-related issues, including solenoid failure, oil pressure problems, or worn components.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific fault code and repair or replace the faulty VANOS components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the specific issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Control Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or unstable idle. Can cause the engine to stall.
  • Solution: Replace the Idle Control Valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox)

• SMG Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission malfunction light, inability to shift gears, long shifts, jerky shifting. The SMG pump provides hydraulic pressure for gear changes.
  • Solution: Replace the SMG pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SMG Clutch Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch slippage, transmission malfunction light. The clutch actuator controls the engagement and disengagement of the clutch.
  • Solution: Replace the SMG clutch actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SMG Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, unexpected gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogram the SMG module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Electronic Damper Control (EDC) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: “EDC malfunction” warning light, stiff or bouncy ride, uneven handling. EDC shocks can fail, leading to these issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty EDC shock(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per shock.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• iDrive System Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, unresponsive buttons, blank screen.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the iDrive module (CCC unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the fix.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty alternator, parasitic drain, or a bad battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to open or close properly, leaks, motor malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the problem and repair or replace the faulty components (motor, hydraulic pump, sensors, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not moving, difficulty adjusting seat position.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2010 BMW M6, while a highly desirable performance car, suffers from several potential issues, particularly relating to its engine and transmission. The S85 V10 is known for rod bearing failures and other potentially catastrophic engine problems. The SMG transmission is also prone to failures. While some issues such as electronic or suspension issues can be moderately priced to repair, many of the most common issues with the car require intensive repairs, often resulting in repair costs of $2,000+. The high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs are important factors to consider when purchasing a 2010 BMW M6.