BMW M5 F10 Maintenance Guide
BMW M5 F10/M6 F12/F13 Maintenance Guide
The BMW M5 F10, produced from 2011 to 2016, is a high-performance vehicle with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, offering an impressive balance of luxury and power. As a used car, the M5 F10 requires careful maintenance to ensure it continues to perform at its best, particularly given its relatively high weight and performance capabilities. Whether you're considering purchasing a used M5 F10 or are an existing owner, understanding the key maintenance requirements and considerations will help preserve the car’s performance and longevity.
Before we get into the main part of the maintenance guide, if you're seeking M5 F10 parts, be that service parts, Genuine BMW parts of performance parts - check out our dedicated page here!
Key Maintenance Considerations for the BMW M5 F10
Given the M5 F10’s performance orientation, it’s important to follow the correct maintenance schedule. The car’s weight, power output, and potential track use place additional stress on several key components, so staying on top of maintenance is essential for ensuring the car remains in peak condition.
Service Schedule and Frequency
BMW provides a standard service schedule for the M5 F10, with recommended intervals for oil changes, inspections, and component checks. However, given the nature of the M5 F10 as a performance vehicle, especially if driven hard or used on track, you may need to service the vehicle more frequently than the standard schedule. Below are key maintenance intervals and considerations:
- Engine Oil Changes: The M5 F10 requires regular oil changes to maintain engine health. BMW recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, if the car is driven hard or used on track, more frequent oil changes are advised. A good rule of thumb is to change the oil every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (9,600 to 12,800 km) under heavy usage conditions to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. Shop BMW M5 F10 Oil
- Brake Fluid: Brake fluid should be replaced every two years or 24,000 miles (38,000 km). If the vehicle is used on track or driven aggressively, brake fluid should be checked more frequently to ensure it maintains the necessary boiling point under high-performance conditions. Replacing the fluid every 12-18 months is recommended for track users.
- Transmission Fluid: The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the M5 F10 should have its fluid changed every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) to maintain smooth shifting and prevent any transmission-related issues. If the car has been driven hard, particularly in stop-start traffic or on track, you may want to service the transmission fluid more frequently.
- Air Filters and Cabin Filters: The engine air filters should be replaced every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or sooner if you notice a drop in engine performance. Cabin filters should be replaced at least every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) to ensure a clean and healthy cabin environment. Shop BMW Genuine Air Filters here
Suspension and Tyres
Due to the M5 F10’s weight and performance capabilities, the suspension and tyres bear significant stress. Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to ensure that the car handles correctly and remains stable under high-performance conditions.
- Suspension: The M5 F10’s suspension is designed for both performance and comfort, but like all performance vehicles, it can suffer from wear, especially if the car has been driven aggressively or on track. Components such as bushings, control arms, and dampers should be checked regularly, particularly for any signs of cracks, excessive wear, or play. Suspension parts typically need replacing every 50,000-70,000 miles (80,000-112,000 km), but this can vary depending on driving style and conditions. Shop M5 F10 Suspension here
- Tyre Care: Given the M5 F10’s high torque and performance capabilities, tyres play a critical role in handling and grip. Check tyre wear frequently and ensure the tyres are evenly worn, as uneven wear can indicate suspension or alignment issues. In general, performance tyres on the M5 F10 will need to be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), though track usage may accelerate this.
Cooling System Maintenance
Performance cars like the M5 F10 generate significant heat, especially when driven hard. Maintaining the cooling system is crucial for preventing overheating and protecting the engine and other critical components.
- Coolant Fluid: BMW recommends checking the coolant fluid level regularly and replacing the coolant every four years or 40,000 miles (64,000 km). Overheating can lead to significant engine damage, so make sure the system is functioning correctly, especially after high-performance driving.
- Radiator and Water Pump: The M5 F10’s radiator and water pump should be inspected every couple of years for any signs of leaks or wear. If the vehicle has been driven aggressively or used for track days, pay close attention to the health of the cooling system, as it can be prone to wear under extreme conditions.
Braking System
The M5 F10 is equipped with high-performance brakes that can take a beating, particularly if the car is driven on track. Regular maintenance and inspection of the braking system are crucial for ensuring safety and optimal performance.
- Brake Pads and Discs: The brake pads and discs should be inspected regularly, particularly if you use the car for high-performance driving. Track driving can wear down pads much faster, so keep an eye on thickness and replace them when necessary. Depending on driving style, brake pads typically need replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km). For track users, expect more frequent replacements.
- Brake Fluid: As mentioned previously, it’s important to replace brake fluid regularly. Brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, leading to reduced braking performance, especially under high heat. If the car is used for track days, the fluid should be replaced more frequently to ensure peak performance.
Whether you're looking to replace your brakes with Genuine BMW items, or looking for something a little more apt for track/hard use, consider visiting our model specific brake pages below:
Visit the BMW M5 F10 Brake section
Visit the BMW M6 F12/F12 Brake section
Common Issues to Monitor
While the BMW M5 F10 is a reliable performance vehicle, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of:
- Turbochargers: The twin-turbo V8 in the M5 F10 is powerful but can suffer from wear if not properly maintained. Turbocharger issues often arise if the car hasn’t had regular oil changes or proper cool-down periods after hard driving. Regular oil changes and ensuring the car cools down before turning it off can help prolong turbocharger life.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can sometimes occur, particularly around the valve cover or oil cooler. These should be addressed promptly, as an oil leak can lead to engine damage if not repaired.
- Electronic Systems: The M5 F10 is equipped with complex electronics and a sophisticated infotainment system. Issues can sometimes arise with sensors, the electronic parking brake, or the iDrive system. Ensure that all electronics are functioning correctly during your ownership.
Conclusion
The BMW M5 F10 is a high-performance vehicle that requires careful and regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best. Adhering to the recommended service schedule is essential, but if you use the car aggressively or on track, consider servicing more frequently, particularly for items like oil changes, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Regular inspections of key components like the suspension, tyres, and cooling system will also help preserve the M5’s performance and reliability. By staying on top of maintenance, you can ensure that your M5 F10 continues to provide an exhilarating driving experience for years to come.