Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is deeply polarized and highly conditional.
7 problems reported (4 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentRod bearing failures in the S85 V10 engine
Considered a critical, well-documented flaw requiring preventative replacement; catastrophic engine failure risk.
- Very frequentSMG III transmission reliability
Prone to major failures, expensive repairs, and criticized for poor drivability in daily use.
- Very frequentThrottle actuator failures
Another common and expensive fault with the S85 engine.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentExtremely high maintenance and repair costs
Described as demanding the upkeep of a "$100,000 car" when new; parts and specialist labor are very expensive.
- RecurrentGeneral aging issues
Despite low mileage, 15-20 year old cars suffer from perished bushings, worn suspension components, and other age-related failures requiring comprehensive refurbishment.
- RecurrentPoor low-end torque
Engine feels "a bit of a dog around town" and lacks thrust below 5,000 RPM.
- IsolatedDifferential whine
Develops under load, even on lower-mileage examples.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim (e.g., Competition Package) as the "best." The primary differentiator discussed is transmission choice. The 6-speed manual (6MT) is highly prized for its rarity, driver engagement, and because it avoids the notorious reliability issues of the SMG III automated manual transmission. The SMG III is frequently criticized for being "awkward," "fragile," and a source of "major issues." Therefore, a well-maintained 6MT model is implicitly favored.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Audi R8, Mercedes-Benz AMG models (C63, S63), Lexus LC500, BMW M8 and Nissan GT-R.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is deeply polarized and highly conditional. The vehicle is universally revered for its high-revving 5.0L V10 (S85) engine, described as an "insanely fast" and "brilliant" powerplant above 5,000 RPM, offering a unique and thrilling driving experience that creates significant owner pride and excitement. However, this is heavily counterbalanced by very frequent and severe criticism regarding legendary reliability concerns and extreme ownership costs. The consensus indicates the car is a "passion purchase" or a "fifth car" for enthusiasts who value its historical significance and engine character, but it is emphatically not recommended as a primary vehicle or for owners unprepared for proactive, expensive maintenance. Satisfaction is almost entirely dependent on purchasing a well-documented example and budgeting for significant preventative repairs.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a unique, grand-touring coupe/convertible centered around its bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine: a powertrain BMW will not produce again. It is seen as more special and engaging than turbocharged rivals like the contemporary Mercedes AMG models but dramatically less reliable and more expensive to maintain than any competitor, including other contemporary BMW M cars. Compared to its successor, the V8-powered F13 M6, and the newer M8, it is viewed as more raw and characterful but technologically dated and far more fragile. It occupies a niche for collectors and driving purists who prioritize engine soundtrack and rarity over practicality, modern technology, or ownership cost predictability.
Recommended configurations
A 6-speed manual transmission is strongly recommended over the SMG III. Purchasing any example is contingent on a complete and reputable service history ("paper trail"). An independent pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with the S85 V10 is considered mandatory. Owners unanimously recommend budgeting for and performing preventative maintenance on known failure points, specifically rod bearing replacement and addressing VANOS issues, before they cause catastrophic engine failure. An extended warranty is suggested for peace of mind, though some note that even BMW dealerships may refuse to work on the V10.
General recommendations
Only suitable for experienced enthusiasts with a significant discretionary budget for repairs and maintenance, treating it as a secondary or collectible vehicle. It is NOT recommended as a daily driver or for owners seeking low-cost, worry-free ownership. Before purchase, verify all service records are from reputable BMW specialists, not general mechanics. Plan to immediately spend $3,000-$5,000+ on preventative maintenance (rod bearings, etc.) even on a low-mileage car. Be prepared for high insurance costs and rapid depreciation on non-exceptional examples. The car is noted to feel heavy and lack low-end torque, making it less engaging for around-town driving; its performance character shines at high RPMs and highway speeds. Purchase price is only the initial cost of entry.
Remarks
The vehicle's value is almost entirely tied to its service documentation; examples without a meticulous "paper trail" are considered nearly worthless due to latent repair liabilities. The S85 engine's reputation for failures is acknowledged as potentially over-stated in online forums, but the financial consequence of a failure (approximately $3,000+ for a rod bearing service) justifies the pervasive concern. Many negative ownership experiences are attributed to second or third owners who defer maintenance. When proactively maintained, the car can be "VERY reliable," but this requires a mindset of pre-emptive repair rather than reactive fixes. Analysis based on owner discussions covering primarily the E63/E64 (V10) generation, with limited mention of the subsequent F13 (V8) model.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2007. Years to avoid: 2007Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all BMW M6 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 1 | 1 | steering |
| 2017 | 1 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 4 | 1 | seats |
| 2014 | 5 | 1 | exterior lighting |
| 2013 | 2 | 2 | engine |
| 2008 | 2 | 1 | steering |
| 2007 | 7 | 1 | steering |
| 2006 | 7 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices9 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2018 · exterior lighting:brake lightscampaign 20V094000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2019 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles. The third brake light may become loose, possibly allowing the light to detach from the vehicle.
2017 · exterior lighting:brake lightscampaign 20V094000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2019 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles. The third brake light may become loose, possibly allowing the light to detach from the vehicle.
2017 · air bagscampaign 16V914000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2017 BMW 640i, 640i xDrive, 650i, 650i xDrive, M6, 535i, 535i xDrive, 430i, 430i xDrive, 440i, 440i xDrive, M4, X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, i3, i8, Rolls-Royce Dawn, Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Cooper All4, Cooper S All4, Mini 4-Door Cooper, Cooper S, Mini 2-Door Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and 2016 BMW 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, M5 and 535d vehicles. The affected vehicles have seat- mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash.
2016 · exterior lighting:brake lightscampaign 20V094000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2019 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles. The third brake light may become loose, possibly allowing the light to detach from the vehicle.
2014 · exterior lighting:brake lightscampaign 20V094000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2019 M6 Gran Coupe vehicles. The third brake light may become loose, possibly allowing the light to detach from the vehicle.
2013 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 17V495000
BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2012-2013 BMW X3 xDrive28i, X3 xDrive35i, and M6 Convertible vehicles and 2013 M6 Coupe vehicles. The affected vehicles have a driver's frontal air bag inflator that may have been improperly welded.
2013 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 12V475000
BMW is recalling certain model year 2013 M5, M6 Coupe, and M6 Convertible vehicles, manufactured from July 19, 2012, through September 11, 2012. Due to a manufacturing process error, the tolerance between the engine oil pump's drive shaft and the pump's rotor was not within specification. As a result, the pump's driveshaft could separate from the rotor.
2008 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
2007 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 12V126000
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 5-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 6-SERIES, MODEL YEAR 2006-2010 M5, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 M6 VEHICLES. THE INSULATED BULKHEAD CONNECTOR FOR THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY ATTACHED TO THE TRUNK FLOOR PANEL, WHICH CAN LEAD TO A LOOSENING OF THE BOLT CONNECTION. AS IT LOOSENS, AN INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE AT THIS CABLE CONNECTION IS POSSIBLE AND COULD CAUSE THE CABLE CONNECTION TO OVERHEAT.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: F06M
Competition 4.4 V8 M
4.4L 8-cylinder · 600 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2015–2018