2018 BMW M5

2018 BMW M5

Overview

The 2018 BMW M5 (F90 generation) represents a significant leap in performance and technology for BMW’s flagship sedan. Powered by a potent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling. This generation introduced xDrive all-wheel-drive for the first time on an M5, enhancing its all-weather capability and traction. While generally lauded for its engineering prowess and exhilarating driving experience, like any high-performance vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs.

---

Engine

4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (S63B44T4)

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible coolant residue around hoses and connections.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or radiator.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises, boost pressure loss, check engine light.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000+

Transmission

8-Speed M Steptronic Automatic

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission pan or seals, potential for shifting issues, warning lights.
• Solution: Replacement of seals, gaskets, or transmission pan.
• Cost: $400 - $1,000

Software Glitches

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission warning lights that may resolve with a software update.
• Solution: Software update or recalibration by a BMW dealer.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Suspension

Adaptive M Suspension

Electronic Damper Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Harsh ride quality, clunking noises, suspension warning lights, inconsistent damping.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty adaptive dampers.
• Cost: $800 - $1,500 per corner

Electrical

Infotainment System

iDrive System Freezes/Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, audio cutting out, navigation errors.
• Solution: Software updates, hard resets, or replacement of the iDrive control unit.
• Cost: $500 - $2,000

Battery Drain

Parasitic Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Battery dying unexpectedly, difficulty starting the vehicle, warning lights related to battery.
• Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty modules or circuits causing drain, battery replacement if necessary.
• Cost: $300 - $1,000

Exterior

Standard Body Panels

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Standard Interior Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: N/A

---

Summary Verdict

The 2018 BMW M5 is a highly capable performance sedan with a generally strong reliability record for its class. The primary areas of concern tend to be related to its complex high-performance systems. The engine’s cooling and turbocharger systems can require attention, and the advanced transmission may occasionally exhibit software glitches or fluid leaks. The adaptive suspension, while enhancing driving dynamics, can be costly to repair if dampers fail. Electrical issues, particularly with the iDrive infotainment system and potential battery drain, are also noted. Despite these points, for a vehicle of its caliber, the M5 offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance, with most issues being addressable through specialized maintenance and repair.